Factors Related to Stunting Events in Children

Abstract

One of Indonesia's nutritional problems is stunting (short stature), which occurs as a result of chronic nutrient deficiencies during pre and post-natal periods.The impact caused by stunting in early childhood is related to mental deterioration and the level of intelligence of children, cognitive, psychomotor, and motor development, as well as in adulthood the risk of reducing workability and susceptibility to continuing infectious diseases that can lead to death. This study aimed to analyze the factors associated with the incidence of stunting in children under five. This research is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. The subjects of this research are mothers who have children under five. The research location is in Semarang Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. Sampling was carried out with a total sampling of 128 respondents. It collected data using a questionnaire and anthropometric measurements, including weight, body length, and head circumference of the baby. Based on the results of the analysis of factors related to the incidence of stunting, the p value was obtained for the parents' last education factor (0.161), a history of exclusive breastfeeding (0.794), LBW (1,000), exposure to cigarette smoke in the womb (0.303), and exposure to cigarette smoke after birth. (1,000). Although the relationship test showed no association between a history of exposure to cigarette smoke during pregnancy and the incidence of editing, there was a tendency for the group exposed to cigarette smoke in the womb to have more stunted children than the unexposed group. Although the relationship test showed no association between a history of exposure to cigarette smoke after birth and the incidence of editing, there was a tendency for the group exposed to cigarette smoke after birth to have more children who were stunted than the unexposed group. It is necessary to provide intensive education to pregnant women and accompanying families and families with children under five to be given knowledge about stunting and assistance or supervision so that children can avoid stunting. It can be done by providing exclusive breastfeeding to babies, avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke while in the womb and after birth.