Peer-reviewed article
Determinants of Childhood Stunting in Central Java, Indonesia: The Role of Maternal Mental Health and Child Health History.
Yuni Dwi Purwani, Teguh Yuwono, Eti Rimawati, Sri Handayani, Sadono Wiwoho et al. ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This study examined why children in Central Java, Indonesia become stunted (too short for their age). Researchers compared 138 stunted and non-stunted children aged 6 to 59 months and found that lung infections, low birth weight, and hospitalizations were common among stunted children. Maternal depression and low education were also linked to stunting. The study identifies hospitalization and postpartum depression as the strongest predictors of stunting.
Key points
- Stunted children had higher rates of pulmonary infections (87.5%), low birth weight (84.6%), and hospitalization history (53.5%) compared to non-stunted children
- Maternal postpartum depression was present in 82.4% of stunted children and was a significant predictor (odds ratio 5.155)
- Hospitalization was the strongest predictor of stunting (odds ratio 5.985)
- Low maternal education levels were significantly associated with stunting
- Central Java's stunting prevalence of 20.7% remains above Indonesia's 2024 target of 14%
Limitations
This is a case-control study that identifies associations rather than causes; it cannot establish whether maternal depression or hospitalization directly causes stunting or whether both result from other underlying factors. The study does not evaluate any intervention, so it provides evidence of risk factors but not solutions.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Indonesia reduced the prevalence of stunting from 37.6% in 2013 to 21.6% in 2022; however, it remains above the 2024 target of 14%. In Central Java, the prevalence is 20.7%, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. This study examined the determinants of stunting in children in Central Java. METHODS: A matched case-control study was conducted in June-July 2024 across selected districts. A total of 138 children aged 6 to 59 months were included in the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used for bivariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: Stunted children more often had pulmonary infections (87.5%), low birth weight (84.6%), and a history of hospitalization (53.5%). Maternal postpartum depression (82.4%) and low education levels were also significant. Hospitalization (OR 5.985, P < .01) and postpartum depression (OR 5.155, P < .05) remained key predictors. CONCLUSION: Integrated strategies addressing healthcare, maternal mental health, and nutrition are essential for reducing stunting.