Risk Factors for Stunting in Children Aged 6-23 Months in Pandak 1 Community Health Center

Background and Objective: Indonesia’s stunting prevalence remains high, predominantly occurring during the complementary feeding period. With rates above 20% being considered a significant public health concern, the situation underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. The objective of this study is to analyze various risk factors for stunting in children aged 6-23 months in the Pandak 1 Community Health Center Area, Bantul Regency. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August, 2023 in Wijirejo and Gilangharjo, as working areas of Pandak 1 Community Health Center. It focused on toddlers aged 6-23 months. Cluster random sampling was used to get representative sampling across multiple villages. Data collection involved length and weight measurements and structured questionnaires to caregivers. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.0, employing Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests to evaluate associations. Results: The findings indicate a significant association between exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, infectious diseases, maternal knowledge and economic factors with the incidence of stunting in children aged 6-23 months. Other factors such as immunization, maternal height and maternal education showed a weaker association with stunting (p>0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed clinical significance in the history of breastfeeding (OR = 4.933), maternal knowledge (OR = 3.560), complementary feeding (OR = 3.241), infectious diseases (OR = 2.211) and economic factors (OR = 1.417), as the primary risk factors for stunting. Conclusion: There is a complex interplay of nutritional, health and economic factors contributing to stunting. The community is advised to access information about quality complementary feeding, provide balanced nutrition and improve children's health status.