PROTEIN AND IODINE ADEQUACY AS RISK FACTORS FOR STUNTING IN CHILDREN AGED 2–4 YEARS

Abstract

Background: Stunting is a chronic nutritional issue that can hinder a child's growth and development. Nutrient adequacy plays a crucial role in child growth; specifically, protein is required for tissue formation, while iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Objective: This study aimed to analyze protein and iodine adequacy levels as risk factors for stunting in children aged 2–4 years. Method: It was an observational study with a case-control design, conducted from November 2019 to January 2020 within the working area of ​​the Bulu Community Health Center (Puskesmas), Temanggung Regency. The study subjects consisted of 40 stunted children (case group) and 40 non-stunted children (control group). Anthropometric data were obtained through height and weight measurements, while data on protein and iodine intake were collected via interviews using a Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). Data were analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression. The results showed that protein adequacy levels were associated with stunting (p<0.001). Results: Iodine adequacy levels were also associated with stunting (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that inadequate protein intake was a risk factor for stunting (OR=36.358; 95% CI: 3.286–402.255), and inadequate iodine intake was also a risk factor for stunting (OR=23.756; 95% CI: 5.950–94.858). Conclusion: Inadequate protein and iodine intake levels are risk factors for stunting among children aged 2–4 years in the working area of ​​the Bulu Community Health Center, Temanggung Regency.