High Prevalence Of Stunting Research Articles

Aid and child health: A disaggregated analysis of the effects of aid on impaired growth

Motivated by a recent setback in the fight against child malnutrition, this study explores whether aid projects help reduce stunting or impaired growth among children close to project sites. Focusing on Malawi, a country with a very high stunting prevalence for which we have access to geo-referenced data on aid projects from a broad range of donors, we geographically match spatial data on 778 aid project sites of 22 different donors with anthropometric and background data on 26,604 children under the age of five. The detailed data allows for a disaggregated analysis comparing local aid impacts by types of aid, donor- and recipient groups. To identify the effect of aid, we rely on spatial and temporal variation in aid project coverage and survey rollout, coupled with variation in the child’s age at aid exposure. The empirical results consistently indicate a positive impact of early-life aid exposure on child growth. The positive treatment effect is seemingly driven primarily by multilateral aid and is stronger in rural areas. On the other hand, we observe little heterogeneity by aid type and across socio-economic recipient groups, signaling that the treatment effect stems from improvements across the board in aid receiving areas rather than by interventions targeting the most vulnerable groups. In terms of mechanisms, the results of the mediation analysis underscore the influence of distal determinants of stunting, such as the improved economic conditions of households, which are likely to impact more proximal determinants downstream.

Peranan Gizi dalam Pencegahan Penyakit

This study aims to explore the role of nutrition in disease prevention and identify the factors influencing the nutritional status of the population in Indonesia. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this research analyzes scientific literature and secondary data from official sources such as the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) and the Indonesian Ministry of Health. The analysis results indicate that macro and micronutrients, such as complex carbohydrates, plant-based proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals, play a significant role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The Mediterranean diet and plant-based eating patterns have proven effective in improving health and preventing disease. However, Indonesia faces complex nutritional challenges, including a high prevalence of stunting in children and rising obesity rates in adults. Stunting is primarily caused by limited access to nutritious food and lack of nutritional knowledge, while obesity is associated with high-calorie diets and low physical activity. This study suggests increasing nutrition education, access to nutritious food, and promoting healthy lifestyles as essential steps to address nutritional problems in Indonesia and improve the overall quality of life.

Physical characteristics and factors affecting in pediatric thalassemia

Background: Thalassemia, one of the most common genetic diseases globally, can contribute to physical developmental delays in pediatric patients due to various factors. Chronic anemia, transfusional iron overload and chelation toxicity are key influences on the growth of children with thalassemia. Objective: This study aims to describe the physical development of pediatric thalassemia patients and assess the factors associated with their physical indices. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 44 pediatric thalassemia patients receiving treatment at the Pediatric Center, Hue Central Hospital, was conducted from February 2023 to December 2023. Results: The study included 44 participants with an average age of 7.5 ± 4.3 years and an equal distribution of males and females. Of these, 64.5% were transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients. Serum ferritin levels exceeded 1000 ng/ml in 43.2% of participants, and the mean hemoglobin concentration was 67.4 ± 16.1 g/L. Of the evaluated children, 31.8% had height-for-age below -2SD, and 43.2% had weight-for-age below -2SD. Statistically significant associations were observed between height-for-age, weight-for-age, and both blood transfusion dependence and serum ferritin concentration (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were detected between physical indices and disease type or hemoglobin concentration (p > 0.05). Conclusions: This study found that 31.8% of pediatric thalassemia patients experienced stunting, and 43.2% experienced wasting malnutrition. The degree of blood transfusion dependence and serum ferritin concentration were identified as factors associated with a higher prevalence of stunting and wasting malnutrition in children with thalassemia. Key words: Children, thalassemia, physical index, transfusion-dependent thalassemia, non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia.

Prevalence and associations between micronutrient deficiencies and growth indicators of 10-18-year-old female adolescents living in Vietnam

Although in recent decades progress has been made in reducing the global burden of micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs), nonetheless MNDs prevalence remains high in some populations(1). Among the micronutrients, deficiencies in iron, zinc and vitamin A are particularly prevalent, and causally associated with adverse health outcomes for children and adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and associations between MNDs and components of the double burden of malnutrition in female adolescents utilizing the nationally representative Vietnam General Nutrition Survey 2020.1,471 female adolescents were included and categorised into: pre-adolescent (10-12-year-old), middle-adolescent (13-15-year-old), and late-adolescent (16-18-year-old) groups. Biomarkers of micronutrients, anthropometry, and sociodemographic data were selected for analyses. WHO growth reference values were applied to define stunting (height-for-age z-score (HAZ) < −2 SD), thinness (BMI-for-age z-score (BAZ) < −2 SD) and overweight (BAZ > 1). Iron deficiency was defined as serum ferritin<15μg/L (<70 μg/L for individuals with inflammation), vitamin A insufficiency (VAI) as serum retinol<1.05 μmol/L, zinc deficiency was based on Zinc International Consultative Group Recommendation, and inflammation as C-reactive protein >5 mg/L or α1-acid glycoprotein >1 g/L. One or multiple MNDs were defined as individuals with ≥ 1 MNDs.Data were analysed by STATA 17 (STATA Corporation, US). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed based on the sampling weight adjustments for the estimation at population level. Multivariate logistic regressions between MNDs and growth indicators were presented as crude (COR) and 95% confidence intervals or adjusted odds ratio (AOR), after adjusting for sociodemographic variables (age, ecological area, demographic, ethnicity, and wealth index) and inflammation.Compared to the pre-adolescent group, prevalence of stunting doubled in late adolescence (12.4% to 26.8%). Meanwhile, the prevalence of overweight and thinness decreased with age (29.7% to 22.0% and 9.4% to 2.7%, respectively). Overall, the prevalence of MNDs increased with age. Zinc deficiency occurred most often in the entire cohort (39.8% in 10-18) and contributed the most to multi-MNDs. Prevalence of one or multiple MNDs increased with age, from 58.1% in pre-adolescence to 80% in late adolescence. In logistic regression analyses adjusting for inflammation and sociodemographic factors, stunting increased the risk of having ≥1 MNDs (AOR: 1.94 (1.3, 2.88), p=0.002), but not individual MND alone. Thinness increased the risk of VAI (AOR: 2.38 (1.34, 4.22), p=0.005). No association was found between any MND and overweight, although overweight was protective against zinc deficiency (COR: 0.76 (0.59, 0.99), p=0.04) in the unadjusted model.Female late adolescents in Vietnam had a higher prevalence of stunting and MNDs, but lower prevalence of thinness and overweight in comparison to pre-adolescents. Stunting was a risk factor associated with having one or multiple MNDs. Thinness was associated with higher risk of VAI. No association was found between overweight and MNDs in this cohort.

Monitoring and evaluation of childhood stunting reduction program based on fish supplement product in North Sumatera, Indonesia.

The government of Serdang Bedagai Regency initiated a supplementation program to reduce the high prevalence of stunting in the area by delivering extra supplementation, which were nutritious biscuits from national government and fish-based supplement produced from local resources. A 6-month study from April 2022 to September 2022 was conducted to monitor and evaluate the government program that involved 219 under-5-year-old children with height-for-age Z-score (HAZ-score) below - 2. We observed the stunting prevalence reduction by 37.00%, where 81 children recovered from stunting (HAZ-score ≥ - 2). Furthermore, the mean HAZ-score and WHZ-score (Weight-for-Height Z-score) were monitored to significantly improve by 0.97 ± 1.45 (P-value = 1.74e-14) and 1.00 ± 2.18 (P-value = and 2.40e-8), subsequently. The most significant improvement in HAZ-score was monitored among children receiving fish-based supplements with 1.04 ± 1.44 improvement (P-value = 6.59e-17). Then, a significant WHZ-score improvement was reported from children consuming fish-based supplements and a combination of fish-based supplements with nutritious biscuits (P-value = 2.32e-8 and 5.48e-5) by 1.04 ± 2.29 and 0.83 ± 1.84, respectively. The results of the observation become evidence that the program could effectively reduce the prevalence of stunting in children below five years old, especially among children who received locally produced fish-based supplements.

Inspiratif (comprehensive stunting prevention initiative): Specific stunting intervention efforts in Pangkajene Kepulauan District

The higher prevalence of stunting in South Sulawesi compared to the national average poses a significant health concern for children, thus necessitating accelerated efforts to reduce stunting. One of the updated strategies for accelerating stunting reduction is the family-centered approach through mentoring families at risk of stunting via the formation of Family Mentor Teams (TPK). Therefore, the objective of this community service is to enhance the role of TPKs by providing comprehensive training on the handling and prevention of stunting from pre-conception to children aged 0-59 months. The implementation method utilizes community-based participatory research (CBPR). The activity was attended by 139 TPKs from 12 districts. The results of the activity demonstrate the effectiveness of the training, as evidenced by an increase in participants' knowledge scores in the post-test (12.96 ± 1.44) compared to the pre-test scores (11.12 ± 1.73).

Theories, determinants, and intervention models and approaches on inequalities of undernutrition amongst under fives: A literature review.

One of the greatest public health problems of the 21st century is undernutrition in children under the age of 5 years (CAUFY). Globally, over 232 million CUAFY are undernourished and approximately 45% of mortality in this population are undernutrition-induced. This paper reviewed and critically explained the factors perpetuating undernutrition in CUAFY in the global space. It further explained the multi-level determinants that influence health inequalities and consequently exacerbate undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally. It also went further to explain the intervention models and approaches that can be used to tackle undernutrition in CUAFY. Demiris et al.'s approach to narrative review was utilized for this paper. Relevant articles on child nutrition were retrieved from multiple credible databases and websites of foremost health organizations. Using an iterative process, multiple combinations of search terms were done by stringing relevant key terms and their synonyms with Boolean Operators. This process was constantly refined to align search results with the study aim. Database search produced relevant and resourceful publications which were utilized to develop this review. The global burden of undernutrition remains high, especially in Oceania with the highest prevalence of stunting and wasting (41.4% and 12.5%), with Africa and Asia following closely. Malnutrition eradication is a global health issue of high priority as demonstrated by the "Goal 2" of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the United Nations (UN) Decade of Action on Nutrition 2016-2025. The review identified no significant positive outcome from previous interventions due to the endemic health inequalities. Determinants of the multi-level health inequalities associated with undernutrition in CUAFY, and probable solutions are explained with theoretical models of health inequalities. A diagonal intervention approach was proposed as a viable solution to ending undernutrition in CUAFY. The application of relevant theoretical models and context-specific intervention approaches can be utilized by stakeholders to close the existing inequality gaps, thereby reducing undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally.

An assessment of the nutritional status of internally displaced school children in the West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon.

Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge among children in developing countries, especially those experiencing civil wars and political unrest. It is imperative to ascertain the level of malnutrition, particularly in displaced children, to develop and effectively implement interventions. This study was a cross-sectional survey conducted to assess the nutritional status of 657 internally displaced school-aged children (5-15 years) enrolled in primary schools in the West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon. The height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference of the children were measured using standard measurements. Clinical examinations were also made on the children. Other parameters that affect nutritional status, such as morbidity and health-seeking practices, were assessed using pre-tested, structured interviewer questionnaires. An analysis of the data revealed that stunting was the most prevalent form of malnutrition (27.1%), followed by wasting (23%), thinness (21.6%), and underweight (20.1%). About 44.5% of the children had low serum iron, and 35.7% of them had poor protein status. The prevalence of anemia was 30.0%. The most common signs of protein, vitamin A, and iron deficiencies observed were thin, dry, or sparse hair (5.2%), pallor (7.3%), and xerosis (3.3%), respectively. About 32% of the children had been sick within the previous month of the study, and the most common illness was the common cold (19.8%). Most of them (>60%) had good health-seeking practices. The high prevalence of stunting, wasting, thinness, underweight, anemia, protein, and iron deficiency calls for interventions such as nutrition education and supplementation to prevent malnutrition and diet-related diseases among children.

TYPOLOGY ANALYSIS AND RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STUNTING PREVALENCE, ECONOMIC GROWTH AND GRDP PER CAPITA IN PROVINCE OF BALI

This study aims to determine the dynamics of the growth pattern and structure of each city/regency in the Province of Bali and try to see its relationship with the stunting prevalence in the Province of Bali. The analytical method used in this research is the Klassen Typology analysis technique and the Spearman Rank Correlation. The results of the Klassen Typology analysis, when correlated with stunting data, show that the Buleleng area which is a developed area (quadrant 1) has a high stunting prevalence of 10.30%, while Tabanan is a relatively underdeveloped area (quadrant 4) has a stunting prevalence below the average Province of Bali (6.6%). The results of the correlation test with the Spearman Test showed that there was no significant relationship between economic growth and GDP per capita partially on the stunting prevalence in Province of Bali, but each of the two variables had a negative relationship. Thus, further research is needed regarding other facts regarding the stunting prevalence in the Province of Bali, so that it can provide a clear picture of the variables that influence the stunting prevalence in each district/city.

The effect of maternal age on stunting incidence (Analysis of 2018 Riskesdas Secondary Data)

<p><strong><em>Background: </em></strong><em>Stunting is a nutritional problem in children which is characterized by the child's height not meeting the age standards set by WHO. Indonesia is the country with the highest prevalence of stunting. Stunting has the impact of delays in various sectors, especially health, in the short term, namely increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Stunting is caused by household factors, one of which is maternal factors. One of the reasons children are stunted is the mother's age, which is still in the adolescent range. Teenage moms who become pregnant often lack the knowledge necessary to ensure their unborn kid has a healthy diet, which can lead to stunting in the infant.</em><strong><em></em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Objectives:</em></strong><em> This study aims to determine the effect of maternal age on the incidence of stunting in children aged 0-59 months based on 2018 Riskesdas data.</em></p><p><strong><em>Methods:</em></strong><em> This research is a quantitative study with an analytical cross-sectional design using secondary data analysis based on survey results from Riskesdas in 2018. Data collection was carried out in March 2018 by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) with locations in all provinces in Indonesia consisting of 34 provinces. The sample used was adjusted to the inclusion criteria, namely 69,155 mothers and toddlers aged 0-59 months. Research analysis was carried out using SPSS in stages based on a description of the research results and frequency distribution by presenting tables on the variables studied and using bivariate analysis simple binary logistic regression with Crude OR results with a confidence level of 95%.</em></p><p><strong><em>Results:</em></strong><em> The results obtained in this study were that there was a significant influence between maternal age and the incidence of stunting with a p value = 0.003. As many as 17.7% of stunting incidents in toddlers were experienced by teenage mothers.</em></p><strong><em>Conclusions:</em></strong><em> There is an influence of maternal age on the incidence of stunting in toddlers. It is hoped that health institutions can increase awareness regarding early marriage which can cause stunting.</em>

Implementasi Program Pemberian Makanan Tambahan Pemulihan (PMT-P) pada Balita untuk Menurunkan Prevalensi Stunting di Puskesmas Kabupaten Jember

Jember Regency is included in the five cities/regencies with the highest prevalence of stunting in East Java, with a percentage ranging from 40-45%. One of the interventions for toddlers to reduce the prevalence of stunting is the Recovery Supplemental Feeding (PMT-P). The study aimed to study the implementation of the Recovery Supplemental Feeding (PMT-P) program for toddlers to reduce the prevalence of stunting. This is a qualitative approach. The data was collected by in-depth interviews and documentation. The results showed that the implementation of the PMT-P Program was not fully in accordance with the 2011 PMT-P Guidelines from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, the program implementers had good insight, knowledge, and response in implementing the PMT-P program. The output of the PMT-P program implementation was not in accordance with David C. Korten's theory of suitability. It is suggested to cook together among midwives, cadres, and mothers of target toddlers, create a community of toddlers’ mothers as a sharing platform about the implementation of Recovery Supplemental Food, and increase monitoring in the provision program for toddlers to ensure that supplemental food is actually consumed by the target toddlers.

Nutritional status and dietary fatty acid intake among children from low-income households in Sabah: A cross-sectional study

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the nutritional status and dietary fatty acid intake among children from low-income households in Sabah, Malaysia. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2022 to February 2023 in Kota Kinabalu and Tawau. A total of 182 children aged 5–12 years from low-income households (less than RM 4850 per month) were recruited. Anthropometric measurements included body weight, height, and body mass index. Dietary intakes were assessed using a 24-h diet recall and the fatty acid (FA) intakes were analyzed using a database with FA content for local foods. ResultsThe mean age of children was 8.8 ± 1.8 years, with a majority being girls (53.8%) and of Bajau ethnicity (53.3%). Based on the anthropometric measurements, 16.5% of children were stunted, 7.1% were thin, and 21.4% were overweight or obese. Intakes of total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and trans fatty acids as a percentage of total energy were 29.3%, 12.3%, 12.6%, 4.0%, and 0.05%, respectively. 77.5% of children exceeded the recommendation for SFA and 63.2% of children did not meet the recommendation for n-3 PUFA. All children did not meet the recommendation for ⍺-linolenic. Children from Tawau had greater consumption of n-3 PUFA (p < 0.001) while children from Kota Kinabalu had greater intakes of total fat (p = 0.020), MUFA (p = 0.005), n-6 PUFA (p = 0.015), and trans fatty acid (p = 0.001). None of the dietary fatty acids was associated with anthropometric indices. ConclusionsThere was a high prevalence of stunting and overweight or obesity among children from low-income households in Sabah. Most of the children failed to meet the recommendations for SFA and n-3 PUFAs. These findings indicate a compelling need for the implementation of nutritional strategies to enhance adherence to dietary recommendations for fatty acids.

The Relationship Between Breastfeeding and The Incidence of Stunting in The Tanrutedong Community Health Center Working Area, Sidrap Regency

Indonesia is in fourth place with the highest prevalence of stunting in the Southeast Asia region. This study aims to determine the relationship between breastfeeding and the incidence of stunting. stunting. The method used is Observational Analytics with a cross sectional study design. Next, analyze the data using the Chi-Square test via the SPSS application. The research results found a relationship between breastfeeding and the incidence of stunting, namely p = 0.000 &lt; 0.005. Toddlers in the Tanrutedong Community Health Center working area, Sidrap Regency in 2023 who do not receive exclusive breastfeeding are more likely to experience stunting. Further research is needed regarding other variables related to the incidence of stunting among toddlers in the Tanrutedong Community Health Center working area, Sidrap Regency. The consequences of this exploration can be utilized as a kind of perspective for completing routine assessments of youngsters who can possibly encounter hindering.

The dominant factors associated with stunting among two years children in five provinces in Indonesia

Stunting is a significant malnourishment problem in Indonesia. The 2021 Indonesian Nutritional Status Study (SSGI) reported that there are five provinces with a high prevalence of stunting (&gt;30%). Age under two years (old age) is the golden period during which children overgrow, and malnutrition during this period can still be corrected. This study analyzed the dominant factors associated with stunting in two-year-old children from five provinces: Aceh, NTB, NTT, West Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi. This cross-sectional study used secondary data from the SSGI 2021. The subjects were 4,554. Children (0-23 months) under five. The 2021 SSGI study was conducted in 34 provinces and 514 regencies/cities from January to December 2021. Data were collected through interviews using the SSGI 2021 questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. Statistical applications were used for data processing. Data analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression tests with the criteria of p&lt;0,05 and a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. The risk factors associated with stunting in children from the five provinces were underweight (OR=9,367), age 6-11 months (OR=1,386), age 12-23 months (OR=1,386), diagnosis of measles (2,5681 CI), male sex (OR=1,400), family size ≥ 8 people (OR=1,612), poor sanitation (OR=1,273 CI 95% 1,041-1,556), and the father's occupation as a farmer/occupation/fisherman/driver (OR=1,278). In conclusion, being underweight is the dominant factor associated with stunting in toddlers.

Stunting prevention behavior among children under two years based on integrated behavior: A model development

Introduction: Stunting, a form of chronic malnutrition, continues to increase annually in Indonesia, making it the third country with the highest prevalence of stunting in Southeast Asia. This study aimed to analyze what factors were most dominant that influenced family behavior toward stunting prevention in the Bangkalan Region. Methods: This research follows an analytical observational approach with a cross-sectional design. The study involved a sample size of 110 participants. Inclusion criteria for this study encompassed children aged 0-24 months residing with their mothers, mothers in good physical and mental health, and both children and mothers living in the Bangkalan district. The sampling technique involved multistage random sampling, followed by stratified sampling using a proportionate stratified random sampling method. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire. Seven questionnaires are used: attitude, personal agency, knowledge, intention, behavior and environmental barrier. The distribution of questionnaires involved direct engagement with several field officers. The analysis technique employed in this study is partial least squares (PLS) using structural equation modeling (SEM).Results: We found three factors significantly influencing mothers' behavior in stunting prevention among habits (P-value 0.031; T 2.221), intentions and knowledge of mothers in stunting prevention (P-value &lt;0.001; T 5.744). The extent of the mother's intention to prevent stunting was influenced directly by the mother's agency (P-value 0.044; T 2.399) and attitude regarding stunting (P-value &lt;0.001; T 7.920).Conlusions: Intention is a direct influence driving factor for individuals to shape behavior, which is influenced by personal attitudes and beliefs. Effective stunting prevention strategy in children under two years is through the development of a stunting prevention behavior model for caregivers through improvements in attitudes, beliefs, norms, personal agencies, knowledge and skills to perform the behavior, intentions, and habits as a family empowerment effort to prevent stunting. Keywords: intentions; parenting; prevention; stunting

Education on Garden Land Utilization in Efforts to Prevent Stunting in Padang City

The issue of stunting is a global problem that has become the focus of the government's efforts to address it. Based on observations of the nutritional status of toddlers at Posyandu Harapan Ibu, 6 out of 149 toddlers, ten are experiencing stunting, accounting for approximately 6.71% of the total number of toddlers. An initial survey conducted by the community engagement team among ten mothers with toddlers in the Posyandu Harapan Ibu 6 area revealed that most (80%) of these mothers lack knowledge regarding stunting, its prevention, management, and associated risks. The Mata Air area in Padang City, which is part of Posyandu Harapan Ibu 6, has a relatively high prevalence of stunting. However, the potential of family backyard spaces in this area has yet to be optimally utilized. This community engagement initiative aims to enhance the use of family backyard spaces as a source of nutrition for families to prevent stunting. The method employed involves educating local volunteers about the benefits of family backyard spaces as an alternative source of family food, followed by the distribution of plant seeds and planting media. The results of the outreach activities indicate that (1) participants respond to the outreach activities with enthusiasm and vigor, (2) Participants actively engage and proactively participate in the outreach process, and (3) Participants have initiated the implementation of recommendations by utilizing family backyard spaces as a source of food and nutrition for their families by planting the provided plant seeds. This community engagement effort represents a positive endeavor to prevent stunting in the Mata Air area.

IMPLEMENTATION OF STUNTING REDUCTION REGULATIONS AND POLICIES IN EAST LOMBOK REGENCY, INDONESIA

Objective: This research aims to develop a theoretical model for implementing stunting management policies applicable in East Lombok Regency, Indonesia, and other districts with high stunting prevalence across Indonesia through the enactment of statutory regulations. The study focuses on community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, and capacity building. Theoretical framework: Drawing upon the Network Policy Model concept and supported by the Social-Ecological Model from USAID. Methodology: Employing a qualitative approach, the research utilizes a phenomenological study of stunting incidents, complemented by focus group discussions and interviews. Field observations are integrated to validate the data. Research is conducted in 11 intervention and 10 non-intervention sub-districts. Results: The 2023 intervention exhibited a significant decrease in stunting prevalence from 17.46% (2022) to 14.22% and wasting rate from 5.93% (2022) to 5.07%. Four aspects of success emerged: mapping of stunting areas, improved regulations, community involvement, and collaborative education programs. Conclusion: Successful stunting and wasting management in 11 sub-districts in East Lombok Regency began with intervention mapping. Government collaboration with SEAMEO RECFON, UNICEF, and universities was pivotal. Regulatory improvements included strengthening marriage regulations and school regulations. Community involvement and collaborative education programs were vital, ensuring comprehensive program implementation. Recommendation: The five recommendations from this research are strengthening community involvement by encouraging active participation, improving the governance structure, enhancing capacity building by continuing and expanding training initiatives for the organization's regional representatives, and fostering cross-sector collaboration by strengthening partnerships between regional organizations, NGOs, academic institutions, and international organizations; collaborative efforts can leverage diverse expertise, resources, and networks to accelerate efforts to reduce stunting and prevent wasting; promoting nutrition education and outreach: implement comprehensive nutrition education programs targeting schools, communities, and families. Emphasize the importance of a balanced diet, breastfeeding practices, and proper nutrition during critical periods of growth and development. Research Implications: The findings inform policymakers, program managers, and stakeholders involved in stunting reduction efforts in East Lombok Regency, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and program design for more effective and sustainable interventions. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the existing literature on stunting reduction by providing empirical evidence and insights using the Network Policy Model concept and the Social-Ecological Model. The study's contextual specificity, methodological rigor, stakeholder engagement, and multiple perspectives enrich the understanding of stunting management initiatives.

Empowering Village Communities Through Mutual Cooperation Mobilization Agents in Kalimontang Village in Overcoming Stunting

Stunting is a world problem because of its implications for determining the future of the nation. Indonesia, as a developing country, still has a high stunting prevalence rate. Based on data from the 2022 National Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI), the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia is 21.6%. This figure is still more than the target figure set by the World Health Organization (WHO), the stunting rate should be no more than 20%. There were obstacles in implementing the stunting reduction target, one of which was a lack of important intake such as animal protein and vegetable protein. This research was conducted with the aim of analyzing stunting prevention by empowering village communities through mutual cooperation agents in Kalimantong Village, West Sumbawa Regency. The research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach. The research results show that Kalimantong Village has a relatively low prevalence rate compared to other villages in Brang Ene District, West Sumbawa Regency. Therefore, to support the target of reducing stunting, human empowerment is needed through mutual cooperation agents to prevent stunting and increase human resources in Indonesia.

Prevalence and Correlates of Stunting among a High-Risk Population of Kenyan Children Recently Hospitalized for Acute Illnesses.

Stunting (length/height-for-age z-score <-2) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality among children under 5 years of age in sub-Saharan Africa. Children who are stunted and recently hospitalized for acute illness may be at particularly elevated risk for post-discharge mortality. In this cross-sectional analysis, we measured the prevalence of stunting at hospital discharge and identified host, caregiver, and environmental correlates of stunting among children aged 1-59 months in Western Kenya enrolled in the Toto Bora Trial. Child age- and site-adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated using Poisson regression. Of the 1,394 children included in this analysis, 23% were stunted at hospital discharge. Older children (12-23 months and 24-59 months versus 0-5 months) had a higher prevalence of stunting (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.04-2.36 and aPR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.08-2.34, respectively). HIV-exposed, uninfected children (aPR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.39-2.70), children with HIV infection (aPR: 2.73; 95% CI: 1.45-5.15), and those who were never exclusively breastfed in early life (aPR 2.51; 95% CI: 1.35-4.67) were more likely to be stunted. Caregiver education (primary school or less) and unimproved sanitation (pit latrine without slab floor or open defecation) were associated with increased risk of stunting (aPR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.54-2.44; aPR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.20-3.31; aPR: 3.57; 95% CI: 1.77-7.21, respectively). Hospital discharge represents an important opportunity for both identifying and delivering targeted interventions for nutrition-associated poor outcomes among a high-risk population of children.

Handling Stunting in Indonesia: Challenges, Progress and Recommendations

Stunting is a nutritional problem that has an impact on children's growth and development. This article discusses the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia, the efforts made by the government, and Indonesia's position in dealing with the stunting problem. Data from various sources, including WHO and the Global Nutrition Report, is used to provide a comprehensive picture. In a global context, stunting affected approximately 144 million children under five years in 2019, with a higher prevalence in low- and middle-income countries . In Southeast Asia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Timor Leste have a high prevalence of stunting. Even though Indonesia has shown progress in reducing stunting rates, there are still challenges and targets that must be achieved. Indonesia's contribution to the global stunting problem, both in terms of causes and solutions. Efforts that have been made, such as improving nutrition for children and pregnant women, quality of health services, access to sanitation, and participation of all parties, are highlighted as important steps in dealing with stunting.