THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY AND STUNTING IN TODDLERS IN THE WORKING AREA OF THE RANCAKALONG PUBLIC HEALTH CENTER, SUMEDANG REGENCY, 2024.

Abstract

Background: Stunting is a global problem among toddlers, particularly in Indonesia, where rates remain above the WHO's threshold. Numerous factors contribute to stunting, including adolescent pregnancy. Globally, 10 million children under 18 marry each year, impacting the health of their newborns. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between adolescent pregnancy and stunting incidence in the Rancakalong Community Health Center work area, Sumedang Regency in 2024. Method: This study was a quantitative analytical study with a case-control design. The population was toddlers aged 0-24 months in the Rancakalong Community Health Center (Puskesmas) area. The sample consisted of 66 toddlers, using purposive sampling (case group) and simple random sampling (control group). Results: Bivariate analysis showed a significant association between adolescent pregnancy and stunting in toddlers (p-value 0.008 OR 13.913). Toddlers born to mothers who experienced adolescent pregnancies had a 13.9x greater risk of stunting. Conclusion: Adolescent pregnancy is associated with stunting in toddlers. Therefore, stunting prevention can be initiated before pregnancy by preventing adolescent pregnancies.