Document Type : original article
Authors
1 Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Jember, East Java, Indonesia
2 Department of Community, Family & Geriatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Jember, Indonesia
3 Department of Community, Family & Geriatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Jember, Indonesia
4 Nursing Council of Indonesia, Indonesian of Health Council, Jakarta, Indonesia
Abstract
Introduction: Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem and remains a major global public health concern. Inadequate breastfeeding practices, such as delayed early initiation of breastfeeding (EIB), non-exclusive breastfeeding, and early cessation of breastfeeding, can contribute to nutritional deficits that lead to stunting. Methods: This descriptive correlational study with a case-control approach analyzed the correlation between breastfeeding practices and the incidence of stunting among toddlers aged 24–59 months in Jember Regency. A total of 174 mother–toddler pairs participated, comprising 87 stunted (case group) and 87 non-stunted toddlers (control group). Data on breastfeeding practices (EIB, exclusive breastfeeding, and continued breastfeeding) were collected using researcher-assisted questionnaires and verified through Maternal and Child Health (KIA) books when available. Nutritional status was assessed via direct anthropometric measurements and analyzed using WHO Anthro software. Results: All toddlers in the case group were classified as stunted (100%), with 70.1% moderately stunted and 29.9% severely stunted. Chi-square analysis showed a significant correlation between breastfeeding practices and stunting incidence. Toddlers who received EIB had 2.278 times greater odds of normal height (p = 0.022). Those exclusively breastfed had 2.554 times greater odds (p = 0.004), and those with continued breastfeeding had 2.514 times greater odds of normal height (p = 0.003). Conclusion: There is a significant association between delayed initiation of breastfeeding, non-exclusive breastfeeding, and early cessation of continued breastfeeding with the occurrence of stunting among toddlers. Strengthening breastfeeding practices from birth through two years of age, supported by families and health institutions, is essential to promote optimal growth and prevent stunting.
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