<![CDATA[Stunting is a persistent public health problem affecting child growth and development. Maternal characteristics and early infant feeding practices may be associated with differences in growth among children with stunting. This study aimed to analyze the associations between maternal age during pregnancy, birth interval, early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF/IMD), exclusive breastfeeding, and complementary feeding and stunting severity among children aged 24–59 months in Nagari Kapa, West Pasaman Regency. An analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 75 mothers of stunted children selected from a population of 92 using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and health records. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of α=0.05. Of the 75 children, 66 (88.0%) were classified as short and 9 (12.0%) as very short. Maternal age during pregnancy (p=0.714), birth interval (p=1.000), and EIBF (p=0.475) were not significantly associated with stunting severity. In contrast, exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.014) and complementary feeding (p=0.014) were significantly associated with stunting severity. In conclusion, maternal characteristics and EIBF were not significantly associated with stunting severity, whereas exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding showed significant associations. Strengthening breastfeeding support and appropriate complementary feeding counseling ]]>
Copyrights © 2026
