<![CDATA[Background: Secondhand smoke exposure is increasingly recognized as a risk factor contributing to stunting; however, it remains underemphasized in stunting prevention policies in Indonesia. The KaBar BesTi (Smoke-Free and Stunting-Free Family) program was developed to address this gap. Aim: This study aimed to explore parental perceptions of secondhand smoke exposure as a risk factor for stunting among children under five using the Health Belief Model framework.Method: A qualitative case study approach was conducted in Sumberan Hamlet, Candibinangun Village, within the catchment area of the Pakem Community Health Center, Sleman, Indonesia. Five parents of children under five and one nutrition officer were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and household observations and were analyzed thematically using the Health Belief Model constructs; including perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and cues to action. Result:Participants perceived that the KaBar BesTi Program strengthened parental awareness of the risk associated with secondhand smoke exposure, particularly regarding perceived susceptibility and perceived severity in relation to stunting. Nevertheless, a gap between perception and practice persisted, as smoking behaviors remained common within family and social environments. Despite these barriers, parents reported adopting protective practices, including restricting smoking around children and participating more actively in health programs. The KaBar BesTi Program appears to contribute to strengthening parental perceptions of the risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure.]]>
