Maternal perception of sickness as a risk factor of stunting in children aged 2-5 years
Abstract: Stunting in children
is caused by past nutritional problems, adversely affects the physical and
mental characteristics of children and is a well-established child-health
indicator of chronic malnutrition. Socio-cultural factors can affect parenting,
thereby indirectly affecting child growth. The objective of this study was to
determine socio-cultural factors and parental short stature as risk factors of
stunting in children aged 2 to 5 years.
Methods
The study used a quantitative approach with case control design and a
qualitative approach with in-depth interview. The study subjects were children
aged 2-5 years, consisting of 45 cases of stunting and 45 controls (normal
subjects). Socio-cultural data were obtained through interviews with the
mothers, while height was measured with a stadiometer. Data were analyzed using
chi square and logistic regression tests to calculate the odds ratio (OR).
Results
The logistic regression test showed that maternal perception of sickness
as a curse (OR=7.43; 95% CI: 2.37-23.21), stopping breastfeeding at <24
months (OR=6.01;95% CI: 1.83-19.69) and low household expenditure for food
(OR=5.78;95% CI: 1.28-26.01) were risk factors of stunting incidence with a
probability of 73.8%. The most dominant risk factor of stunting was maternal
perception of sickness (OR=7.43 95% CI: 2.37-23.21).
Conclusion
Maternal perception of sickness was the most dominant risk factor of
stunting in children 2-5 years of age. A multidisciplinary approach is needed
to address the range of raised issues and so combat stunting in children.
Keywords: Stunting;
socio-cultural; parental short stature; children aged 2-5 years
Author: Maria Fatima Dete
Dellu, Maria Mexitalia, Ali Rosidi
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg160211
