ANALISIS FAKTOR INDIVIDU DAN DUKUNGAN KEBIJAKAN YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN KEJADIAN STUNTING DI DESA BERUGE DARAT

Abstract

Stunting remains a major chronic nutritional problem and a public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas. The occurrence of stunting is influenced by multiple factors, including individual characteristics and local policy support. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between individual factors and policy support with the incidence of stunting in Beruge Darat Village, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir (PALI) Regency. This study employed a quantitative observational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of all mothers with children aged 0–59 months living in Beruge Darat Village. A total sampling technique was applied, involving 40 respondents. Data were collected through structured interviews using a validated questionnaire and analyzed using bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression. The results showed that individual maternal factors, including maternal age, age at marriage, education level, and nutritional knowledge, were significantly associated with stunting in the bivariate analysis. However, multivariate analysis indicated that maternal knowledge was the most dominant factor associated with stunting, while maternal age, age at marriage, education level, and policy support were not statistically significant after adjustment. Policy support influenced stunting indirectly through maternal knowledge and caregiving behavior. In conclusion, stunting prevention efforts should prioritize improving maternal nutritional knowledge and child caregiving practices, supported by integrated village-level policies and sustainable community-based education programs.