Peer-reviewed article
The Relationship between Infectious Diseases and Stunting among Toddlers in Indonesia.
Suratri MAL, Indriasih E, Warouw TS, Edwin VA, Yulianto A et al. ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view ·Key points
Limitations
Abstract
Background Chronic malnutrition can cause children to be underweight for their age, leading to stunting. This study aimed to examine the association between infectious diseases and stunting in toddlers. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted across Indonesia in 2021, involving 90,897 toddlers. Data were obtained through maternal interviews and anthropometric measurements. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used. Results Results showed that toddler age, gender, place of residence, and parental education and occupation were significantly associated with stunting, p < 0.001 (OR = 1.1-3.6). Infectious diseases, including Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs), diarrhea, pneumonia, and worm infections, were also significantly associated with stunting, p < 0.05 (OR = 1.1-1.5). Conclusions Infectious diseases, including ARIs, diarrhea, pneumonia, and worm infections, are significantly associated with stunting. These findings highlight the importance of preventing and managing infections to reduce stunting in Indonesian toddlers.