Trend of Stunting Cases related to Increased Access to Sanitation and Antenatal Care Visits: Correlation Study in Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract

: Significant progress has been made globally in reducing chronic malnutrition and stunted linear growth among children under the age of 5, though rates remain high in many regions. Policies, programs, and interventions supporting maternal and child health and nutrition hold potential to enhance child growth and development. Although cases have declined in Indonesia over the past decade, the trend in Lampung Province remains unclear. This article aims to illustrate the trend of stunting cases in Lampung Province and determine whether this trend correlates with increased access to Antenatal Care (ANC) and improved sanitation. We collected data from the Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) surveys conducted between 2007 and 2022. The data were then analyzed, and a correlation test was conducted to assess the relationship between the stunting trend, ANC visits, and sanitation improvements. Stunting cases across each district showed a decline; however, between 2007 and 2013, there was an increase in three districts: Central Lampung, Bandar Lampung City, and Metro City. Another increase was observed in Way Kanan district between 2013 and 2018. Nevertheless, each district managed to achieve a significant reduction in cases by 2022. The correlation test results indicate that the reduction in stunting cases in Lampung Province is associated with increased ANC visits and improved sanitation access. Enhancing the coverage of ANC services and improving sanitation conditions are closely associated with a decrease in stunting prevalence. ANC access has a stronger correlation with the reduction in stunting rates than sanitation, though both are significant factors influencing stunting prevalence.