Exploring Risk Factors for Stunting Among Children aged 6-23 Months in Kendari, Indonesia

Abstract

Stunting is one of the nutritional problems in Indonesia, with a high prevalence. Stunting contributes to poor quality of life, morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was determine several factors associated with stunting among children aged 6-23 months in Kendari City, Indonesia. This research was an observational study with a case control study approach and had been carried out at Puuwatu Health Center, Kendari City. The statistical test used was the Chi-square test and the Odd Ratio. The results showed that low birth weight in the case group was 84.4% and the control group was 15.63%. Body length at birth in the risk category in the case group was 80.0%, and the control group was 20.0%. Immunization status in the risk category in the case group was 14.3% and the control group was 85.71%. Low birth weight is associated with the incidence of stunting. Children with low birth weight status were 22.8 times more likely to experience stunting than children with normal birth weight status (OR = 22.8). Body length at birth is related to the incidence of stunting. Children with normal birth length status (OR = 18). Immunization status was not associated with the incidence of stunting.  

Keywords: low birth weight (LBW); birth length; immunization; stunting