Risk Factors for Stunting in Adolescents at Madrasah Tsanawiah Nurul Furqon, East Tomia District, Wakatobi Regency

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background: Stunting remains a major public health problem in Indonesia, with prevalence exceeding 20% in 2023. Screening at Madrasah Tsanawiah Nurul Furqon, East Tomia District, Wakatobi Regency, identified 8 of 14 students (57.14%) as stunted. Inadequate protein intake, low parental income, and infectious diseases were suspected contributors. This study aimed to identify factors associated with stunting among adolescents. Methods: A quantitative case-control study was conducted. The study population consisted of 87 students. Sixteen respondents were selected through matching procedures, including 8 cases and 8 controls. The duplicated population statement was removed to improve clarity and conciseness. Data were collected using standardized instruments and analyzed using the Chi-square test and Odds Ratio (OR). Results: Protein intake and infectious diseases were significantly associated with stunting. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between protein intake and stunting (Chi-square = 7.273; p = 0.013) and between infectious diseases and stunting (Chi-square = 9.660; p = 0.003). Parental income was not significantly associated with stunting (Chi-square = 0.254; p = 0.500). The interpretation of Odds Ratio values was revised to ensure consistency with epidemiological principles and the statistical findings. Adolescents with inadequate protein intake and a history of infectious diseases were more likely to experience stunting. Given the limited sample size, the findings should be interpreted cautiously. Conclusion: Inadequate protein intake and infectious diseases were significantly associated with stunting, whereas parental income was not. The conclusions were revised to align with the statistical results and avoid overgeneralization. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.