Maternal Knowledge as an Independent Determinant of Stunting in a Suburban Setting: A Case-Control Study in South Tangerang City, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26911/Abstract
Background: In Indonesia, malnutrition during the first 1,000 days of life is the primary cause of stunting, a serious public health issue. Between 2019 and 2021, the prevalence of stunting in South Tangerang City increased from 15.4% to 19.4%. However, specific data on stunting risk factors in suburban settings like South Tangerang City remain limited, as most existing studies were conducted in rural areas. This study aimed to identify independent risk factors for stunting among children under five in South Tangerang City using a case-control design.
Subjects and Method: There were 53 cases and 53 controls in a 1:1 case-control design using consecutive sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used for in-person interviews, and an infantometer or microtoise was used for direct anthropometric measurements. Independent variables were exclusive breastfeeding history, early initiation of breastfeeding history, complementary feeding history, low birth weight history, diarrhea history, maternal age, maternal occupation, maternal height, maternal education level, maternal knowledge level, and family income level. The analysis applied multiple logistic regression.
Results: Low maternal knowledge level was an independent determinant of stunting (aOR 3.19; 95% CI: 1.37 to 7.45; p=0,007). Recurrent diarrhea history (aOR 2.72; 95% CI: 0.97 to 7.65; p=0,057) and low family income (aOR 2.34; 95% CI: 0.97 to 5.62; p=0,058) were associated with increased odds of stunting, although statistical significance was not achieved.
Conclusion: Low maternal knowledge level was an independent determinant of stunting in children under five. Nutrition education interventions targeting mothers, particularly in low-income suburban households, are recommended as a priority strategy for stunting prevention.
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References
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