RETROSPECTIVE STUDY: ANALYSIS OF STUNTING RISK FACTORS IN THE WORK AREA OF ABELI HEALTH CENTER, KENDARI CITY

Stunting remains a critical public health challenge in Indonesia, with Kendari City reporting a prevalence of 19.6%, significantly exceeding the national target of 14%. Identifying specific determinants is essential for optimizing prevention strategies. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with stunting among toddlers within the Abeli Public Health Center’s working area in Kendari. A retrospective analytical study was conducted involving 78 toddlers (39 stunted and 39 non-stunted), selected via purposive sampling. Data were derived from medical records and structured surveys. Statistical analysis employed chi-square tests and logistic regression at a 95% confidence level. Significant determinants of stunting included maternal education (0.040), family economic status (0.022), maternal height (0.029), low birth weight (LBW) (0.044), and exclusive breastfeeding (0.012). Conversely, immunization status (0.068) and history of infectious diseases (0.389) showed no significant association. LBW, exclusive breastfeeding, education, and maternal height emerged as the strongest predictors. Conclusion: Stunting in this region is multifaceted, driven by maternal, neonatal, and socioeconomic factors. Targeted interventions focusing on maternal nutrition, improved feeding practices, and enhanced health service accessibility are recommended.