BACKGROUND

Stunting remains a major public health issue in Indonesia, particularly in regions like Pandeglang Regency, where prevalence rates are high. Understanding the contributing factors is essential for targeted interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze factors associated with stunting among toddlers using a mixed-methods approach.

METHODS

A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in two health centers in Banten Province from December 2021 to January 2022. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using chi-square tests (pRESULTS

There is a relationship between maternal knowledge, history of exclusive breastfeeding, history of supplementary feeding, support from health workers, and socio-economic status with the prevalence of stunting. However, the pattern of exclusive breastfeeding and seeking health services in the working areas of Bangkonol Health Center and Kaduhejo Health Center, Pandeglang Regency, is not good enough and needs to be improved. Health workers need to educate mothers with toddlers about patterns of providing complementary feeding, food preparation, and storage, and basic health practices to prevent stunting.

RESULTS

There is a relationship between maternal knowledge, history of exclusive breastfeeding, history of supplementary feeding, support from health workers, and socio-economic status with the prevalence of stunting. However, the pattern of exclusive breastfeeding and seeking health services in the working areas of Bangkonol Health Center and Kaduhejo Health Center, Pandeglang Regency, is not good enough and needs to be improved. Health workers need to educate mothers with toddlers about patterns of providing complementary feeding, food preparation, and storage, and basic health practices to prevent stunting.

Human ; Infant: 1-23 Months ; Child Preschool: 2-5 Yrs Old ; Public Health ; Prevalence ; Methods ; Indonesia ; Health ; Growth Disorders ; Comprehension