Inappropriate complementary feeding practice increases risk of stunting in children aged 12-24 months
Abstract: In 2013, the
prevalence of stunting in Central Sulawesi province was 41%, which was higher
than the national prevalence of 37.2%. Complementary feeding practice,
infectious disease, history of exclusive breastfeeding, birth weight and birth
length were assumed to contribute to the prevalence of stunting. The objective
of the present study was to identify the risk factors for stunting among
children aged 12 to 24 months.
Methods
This study was conducted using a case control design. Subjects were
children aged 12-24 months, consisting of 58 cases and 58 controls. Data were
obtained with a body length infantometer. Data on complementary feeding
practices, history of exclusive breastfeeding, and history of infectious
diseases were obtained using questionnaires. Nutrient intakes were measured by
semi quantitative food frequency questionnaires. Data on birth weight and birth
length were obtained from the buku KIA (maternal and child health record). Data
were analyzed by chi-square and logistic regression tests.
Results
There was no difference in sex, BMI, and parental education between cases
and controls (p>0.05). After controlling for history of exclusive
breastfeeding and birth weight, the risk factors for stunting were
inappropriate complementary feeding practice in terms of quantity and quality
(OR=8.26; 95% CI: 2.69-25.44), history of diarrhea (OR=4.73; 95% CI:
1.08-20.69), birth length (OR=5.11; 95% CI: 1.69-15.46) and respiratory tract
infection (OR=5.30; 95% CI: 1.03-27.23). Inappropriate complementary feeding
practice was the most dominant factor for stunting.
Conclusion
Inappropriate complementary feeding practice increased the risk of
stunting in 12-24 months old children by 8.26. This study confirms the need to
scale up interventions during the first 2 years of life, including appropriate
infant feeding practices.
Keywords: Stunting;
complementary feeding practices; diarrhea; children 12-24 months
Author: Hijra Hijra, Siti
Fatimah-Muis, Martha Irene Kartasurya
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg160210
