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Combined water, sanitation, and handwashing (WSH) interventions could reduce fecal contamination along more transmission pathways than single interventions alone. We measured Escherichia coli levels in 3909 drinking water samples, 2691 child hand rinses, and 2422 toy ball rinses collected from households enrolled in a 2-year cluster-randomized controlled trial evaluating single and combined WSH interventions. Water treatment with chlorine reduced E. coli in drinking water. A combined WSH intervention improved water quality by the same magnitude but did not affect E. coli levels on hands or toys. One potential explanation for the limited impact of the sanitation intervention (upgraded latrines) is failure to address dog and livestock fecal contamination. Small ruminant (goat or sheep) ownership was associated with increased E. coli levels in stored water and on child hands. Cattle and poultry ownership was protective against child stunting, and domesticated animal ownership was not associated with child diarrhea. Our findings do not support restricting household animal ownership to prevent child diarrheal disease or stunting but do support calls for WSH infrastructure that can more effectively reduce household fecal contamination.

Child undernutrition persists in Cambodia despite recent progress. As Cambodia undergoes a shift in dietary consumption that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiologic changes, there is risk of ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages displacing nutrient-dense foods during the critical period of infant growth in the first 24 months. The aim of this study was to assess the introduction and intake of foods of low nutritional value and sugar-sweetened beverages and their association with undernutrition among children 24 months of age in rural and semi-urban Cambodia. Cross-sectional analyses of a 24-h dietary recall from a sample (n = 377) of 24-month-olds found that the majority of infants had been introduced to packaged salty snacks and sweets by 12 months of age and to sugar-sweetened beverages by 15 months. By 24 months of age, 78% of children had consumed foods of low nutritional value and 57% consumed a sugar-sweetened beverage on the previous day. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that infant intake of a flavored sugary drink on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of both stunting and wasting, and consumption of packaged sweets on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of wasting, but no association was found with stunting. These findings underscore the need to improve educational and policy interventions to support healthy feeding practices for infants and young children.

Human milk (HM) provides a plethora of nutritional and non-nutritional compounds that support infant development. For many compounds, concentrations vary substantially among mothers and across lactation, and their impact on infant growth is poorly understood. We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science to synthesize evidence published between 1980 and 2022 on HM components and anthropometry through 2 y of age among term-born infants. Outcomes included weight-for-length, length-for-age, weight-for-age, body mass index (in kg/m2)-for-age, and growth velocity. From 9992 abstracts screened, 144 articles were included and categorized based on their reporting of HM micronutrients, macronutrients, or bioactive components. Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are reported here, based on 28 articles involving 2526 mother-infant dyads. Studies varied markedly in their designs, sampling times, geographic and socioeconomic settings, reporting practices, and the HM analytes and infant anthropometrics measured. Meta-analysis was not possible because data were sparse for most micronutrients. The most-studied minerals were zinc (15 articles, 1423 dyads) and calcium (7 articles, 714 dyads). HM iodine, manganese, calcium, and zinc concentrations were positively associated with several outcomes (each in ≥2 studies), whereas magnesium (in a single study) was negatively associated with linear growth during early lactation. However, few studies measured HM intake, adjusted for confounders, provided adequate information about complementary and formula feeding, or adequately described HM collection protocols. Only 4 studies (17%) had high overall quality scores. The biological functions of individual HM micronutrients are likely influenced by other HM components; yet, only 1 study analyzed data from multiple micronutrients simultaneously, and few addressed other HM components. Thus, available evidence on this topic is largely inconclusive and fails to address the complex composition of HM. High-quality research employing chronobiology and systems biology approaches is required to understand how HM components work independently and together to influence infant growth and to identify new avenues for future maternal, newborn, or infant nutritional interventions.

Introduction: Stunting or growth failure is a health problem faced by the world today, especially in developing countries, including Southeast Asia. The Southeast Asian region accounts for more than a quarter of the number of children experiencing stunting worldwide. In addition to impacting children's growth and development, mortality and morbidity rates will also affect the economies and productivity of countries in the future. Research objectives: This scoping review aimed to systematically map the research that has been conducted in this area and identify existing gaps in knowledge related to risk factors for stunting in the Southeast Asian region. Methode: A scoping review was conducted using three databases: Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and one academic publisher, Taylor & Francis. The keywords used were "Children," "Risk Factors," "Stunting.". The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) studies with a population of children under five years of age, (2) studies addressing risk factors for stunting, (3) studies conducted in countries in the Southeast Asian region, (4) studies of all research types, and (5) articles published in English. Of the 2252 articles, 54 met the inclusion criteria. Result: In this review, the risk factors associated with stunting in children under five years of age in Southeast Asia were categorized into direct, underlying, and basic factors. Direct factors include parental and child characteristics, food intake, and health. Underlying factors include the practice of providing food and access to health services and care. The basic factors causing stunting are environmental, household health, and socioeconomic factors. Conclusions: This scoping review determined the risk factors for childhood stunting in Southeast Asia, such as attributes of the child, traits of the parent, the amount of food the child consumes, the health of the child, feeding habits, access to health services, household and environmental health, and socioeconomic status. These factors are interrelated and affect each other. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to these factors to reduce the risk of stunting among underfives in Southeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Proper infant and young child feeding practices have gained attention over the years as one of the interventions to reduce childhood stunting. However, there is still a gap in research to determine these relationships in children under two years and the reasons for improper feeding. Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between feeding practices, stunting and barriers among children under two years. Methodology: Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the study involved secondary analysis of 1806 records of children aged 6–23 month, from the Next Generation Nutrition Program conducted in Tanzania (2015–2019). Both quantitative and qualitative data analyses were employed. Frequency distribution tables were utilized to describe study participants stratified by their stunting status. Subsequently, modified Poisson regression models identified predictors of stunting. Qualitative analysis encompassed deductive and inductive approaches, to extract themes that address the behaviors contributing to inappropriate feeding practices. Results: Stunting prevalence was 28.8% among children aged 6–23 months, with the majority (65%) of stunted children aged 1 year or older. Dietary diversity was low: 88.3% and 86.3% of stunted and non-stunted children, respectively, consumed less than 5 food groups. Surprisingly, early initiation of breastfeeding, time of stopping breastfeeding, and minimum dietary diversification were not significantly associated with child stunting (p-value > 0.05). Barriers to proper feeding practices identified were inadequate knowledge of feeding, maternal condition, economic hardship, cultural issues, and seasonality. Conclusion: Early breastfeeding and minimum dietary diversity were not significant predictors of stunting. However, the mother's age and height > 150 cm reduced stunting risk while child sex, age, birth weight, marital status, and place of delivery also influenced stunting risk. It is crucial for initiatives to emphasize good feeding practices while addressing the complex factors that may hinder optimal feeding practices in this age group to reduce childhood stunting effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Linear growth faltering remains a pervasive public health concern that affects many children worldwide. This study aimed to investigate possible maternal factors promoting normal linear growth among children aged 6–23 months of age from impoverished Rwandan households. Methods: We used a three-stage cluster sampling procedure. The study population consisted of children aged six to 23 months and their mothers who lived in the study districts. A structured questionnaire helped to collect data from 807 selected mother-child dyads. The primary outcome variable was height-for-age Z scores. The main predictors were maternal income-generating activity, maternal education, maternal depression, household decision making, number of ANC visits, use of family planning method, types of family planning, and mode of delivery. We used univariate analysis to establish median, frequencies, and percentages. Furthermore, we used the Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Spearman rank correlation tests for bivariate analysis. We included in the final model of robust linear regression for multivariate analysis the potential confounding variables identified as significantly associated with the outcome (child age, participation in works for both parents, good handwashing practice, owning a vegetable garden, and the total number of livestock) along with maternal factors. Results: Maternal factors that promoted normal linear growth of children were the presence of maternal income generation activity (β= 0.640 [0.0269 1.253], p value = 0.041), the participation of the mother in the decision-making process of the household (β=0.147 [0.080 0.214], p-value < 0.001), and the higher frequency of consultations with ANC (β=0.189 [0.025 0.354], p-value = 0.024). Additionally, a combination of household decision-making with the number of ANC visits predicted an increase in the linear growth of the child (β=0.032 [0.019 0.045], p-value < 0.001). Conclusion: Maternal factors such as maternal income-generating activity, maternal participation in household decision making, and increased number of ANC visits were found to promote normal child linear growth. These results contribute valuable information to the formulation of interventions and policies to improve child nutrition and growth in the community studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Researchers over the years have underscored the role of birth spacing on maternal health, however, inadequate maternal repletion due to shorter birth intervals could also affect the health of the child. Even so, limited studies exist on the linkage between birth spacing and child nutrition. This study examines the association between birth spacing and child stunting and underweight using the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. Methods: The study sourced data on 1, 904 children less than 59 months from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. The study employed bivariate analysis and logistic regressions to establish the association between birth spacing, and child stunting and underweight. Results: The analyses reveal that childbirth spacing between 24 and 35 months (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.38–0.99; p < 0.05), 36 to 47 months (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.25–0.70; p < 0 0.01), and beyond 47 months (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.28–0.78; p < 0.01) have lower odds of child stunting than children with birth spacing less than 24 months. Children with birth spacing between 24 and 35 months (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.29–0.98; p < 0.05), 36 to 47 months (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.22–0.90; p < 0.01) and beyond 47 months (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.26–0.94; P < 0.05) have lower odds of being underweight than those with birth spacing less than 24 months. Conclusion: The study reveals that mothers with a birth spacing of at least two to three years compared to their counterparts with less than two years of birth spacing have lower odds of having a stunted and underweight child under age five. The study recommends that Ghana Health Service and other healthcare providers should educate mothers on the gains of birth spacing of at least two years on their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Mid-Day Meal Program plays a pivotal role in enhancing the nutritional status and educational outcomes of primary school children in India. This study investigates the program’s impact on the nutritional well-being of children across three districts in Bihar. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 1,070 primary school children from Saran, Muzaffarpur, and Patna districts. The assessment of nutritional status was based on indicators such as BMI for age, weight for height, and weight for age. Data related to children’s participation in the Mid-Day Meal Program was collected through relevant questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Patna has the highest percentage of children receiving mid-day meal (89.86%) with lowest prevalence of wasting and severe wasting. The prevalence of stunting or wasting were more common in children aged greater than 10 years. The analysis revealed substantial challenges in nutritional status, with a high prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting among primary school children in the surveyed districts. In contrast, promising trends were observed in terms of menu changes and vegetable inclusion within the Mid-Day Meal Program. Conclusion: The study highlights the pressing need for targeted interventions to address prevalent nutritional issues and improve the program’s impact. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance the well-being of primary school children in the region through the Mid-Day Meal Program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stunting is the common form of child undernutrition. The objective of the present study is to know the relationship of maternal characteristics and stunting in children below five years. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among 233 children who were 6-59 months of age. Data was collected by structured interview schedule and length/height was measured and analysed length/ height for age to identify status of stunting and maternal characteristics was analysed to identify the relationship with stunting status Results: The study result shows that among 233 participants, 29(12.4%) were found to be stunted. Children being stunted or normal in height was associated with maternal height, frequency of meals per day in the family, inadequate iron supplementation during pregnancy, adequacy of antenatal check up during pregnancy. Maternal height below 145cm (OR: 0.009; p=<0.001), frequency of meal (OR: 0.005; p=0.001), inadequate iron supplementation (OR: <0.001;p=<0.001) increase the likelihood of a child being stunted Conclusion: There was correlation between maternal characteristics and stunting of children. There is needed to improve the nutritional status by improving adherence of iron supplementation during pregnancy and improving antenatal visit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and stunting are prevalent global health issues, particularly in developing countries, where previous studies have suggested a potential relationship between them. This systematic review aims to analyze the relationship between iron deficiency anemia and stunting in pediatric populations in developing countries. Methods: Literature searches were conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and EBSCO Host. The primary outcome was the association between IDA and stunting. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cohort studies and the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) for other observational studies. Meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model and heterogeneity assessment. A Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment was performed to determine the certainty and importance of the study. Results: Out of 19,095 articles, 15 studies were included in the systematic review, and 4 studies were included in the meta-analysis, encompassing 21,936 subjects aged 0 to 12 years. IDA prevalence ranged from 3.6 to 58.8%, while stunting prevalence varied from 6.6 to 44.5%. Nine articles supported a significant relationship between IDA and stunting, revealing that stunted children had a 1.31–6.785 times higher risk of developing IDA. The odds ratio of children with IDA to be stunted was 2.27 (95% CI = 1.30–3.95). All studies exhibited a moderate risk of bias. GRADE assessment suggested that the evidence's certainty is low but important. Conclusions: The high IDA prevalence in developing countries, including Indonesia, is associated with stunting in children, suggesting a synergistic relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short stature (SS) is a condition where children's growth rates are below the 2.5th percentile for their age and gender. Early intervention is vital due to its association with reduced quality of life and mortality. This study examines the understanding of Qassimi parents regarding their child's SS. We surveyed 384 Qassimi parents, including those with growing children and those without children willing to participate. Knowledge scores ranged from 0 to 8, with scores over 4 indicating good knowledge. Most of the study participants were Saudis, females, or holding a university degree. The mean score was 4.44 and almost 47% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge. All the study participants were aware of at least one cause of short stature. Of more than 20 causes of short stature, only 24.3% of the study participants could correctly identify 4 or more causes. Multivariable regression revealed that higher knowledge scores were significantly noted among participants younger than 40 years (p-value: < 0.001), students (p-value: < 0.001), unmarried (p-value: 0.001), and/or having no children (p-values: 0.001). Among respondents with children, individuals with children younger than 12 years had significantly better knowledge (p-value: 0.003). In contrast, knowledge was seemingly independent of gender, level of education, nationality, or family history (p-values: > 0.05). Although the knowledge status is overall moderate, it's recommended to further start public health initiatives and educational programs, while paying special attention to population groups associated with lower knowledge level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Zinc deficiency is a significant global health concern, affecting around two billion people due to insufficient dietary intake. The extensive utilization of cereal-based meals with inadequate zinc content and limited bioavailability stands as the primary cause for this issue. Children who possess low levels of zinc experience stunted growth and developmental delays. They also have higher rates of morbidity from pneumonia, diarrhoea, and malaria. Inadequate zinc intake has been correlated with a heightened risk of mortality in children due to specific diseases. It is crucial to secure a satisfactory level of zinc in rice grains because of its indispensable function in various biochemical processes that are fundamental for the growth and advancement of plants. A deficiency in zinc can lead to reduced grain yield and nutritional value in rice. Recently, the utilization of registered biofertilizers and microbial technology is widely recognized in contemporary intensive farming practices. Some indigenous zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains discovered can increase rice yield and zinc content in grains. The objective of this study was to impact of a biofertilizer formula consisting of native zinc solubilizer strains on the growth, productivity, and zinc concentration in the grains of three rice varieties, namely Inpari IR Nutrizinc, Inpari 48, and Inpago 13 Fortiz. The study was conducted in a paddy field located in the Inceptisol of Subang Regency, West Java, during the year 2023. METHODS: The field trial was conducted to study the impact of a biofertilizer comprising a group of non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria, including Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Enterobacter bugandensis on rice growth, yield, zinc levels, and uptake in grains. The rhizosphere soils were the origin of these bacteria, which were obtained using agar media containing zinc oxide as insoluble zinc compounds. Prior to this, the bacterial strains were evaluated for their capacity to dissolve zinc and generate the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid. To gauge their zinc-solubilizing prowess, Pikovskaya agar media, supplemented with insoluble zinc oxide and calcium phosphate, respectively, were utilized. The presence of distinct clear areas surrounding the colonies demonstrated the effectiveness of the microbes in converting insoluble zinc and phosphorus into soluble forms. The concentration of the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid was measured using the Salkowski reagent. The field trial was organized using a split-plot design with three replications. The application of the biofertilizer mixture as a seed treatment was carried out before the transplantation of the rice nursery. The seedlings were prepared individually for each rice variety, with a comparison made between those treated with the biofertilizer and those that were not. FINDINGS: The study found that the consortium of indigenous non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria significantly increased the yield of rice varieties by about 5.6 percent and zinc content in grains by 16.3 percent. However, the application of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance the rice yield and zinc content in grains in this Inceptisol paddy soil. In terms of zinc content in grains, the rice variety Inpago 13 Fortiz exhibited a notable increase compared to the Inpari IR Nutrizinc variety, with levels of 40.3 milligrams per kilogram as opposed to 34.1 milligrams per kilogram. CONCLUSION: the utilization of a native combination of carefully chosen zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains could augment the productivity, zinc concentration, and absorption in rice grains of various varieties in a paddy field with Inceptisols soil type, characterized by a moderate to high overall zinc content and limited zinc accessibility. The addition of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance rice yield compared to the addition of other tratments or control. This is probably because of the medium-high level of the total zinc content of the soil, suggesting that the addition of Biofertizinc will reduce or delete the crop requirement for zinc fertilizer in Inceptisol paddy fields. This implies that the biofertilizer is ecologically sustainable as it eliminates the use of harmful chemicals, reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and lowers costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition is responsible for over one-third of deaths among children under the age of five in low-and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia, and is largely preventable. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of undernutrition and its contributing factors among children aged 6–59 months in the Gedio zone of Southern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study design was used, and data were collected from 403 children and their mothers selected through random sampling technique. Anthropometric measures were converted to Z-scores using WHO-Anthro version 3.2.2 software. The prevalence of underweight, wasting, and stunting were 19.7% (95% CI 16-24%), 10% (95% CI 7–13%), and 49% (95% CI 44–54%) respectively. Low birth weight (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI (1.585–4.895), feeding non-diversified diet (AOR = 1.9, 95% CI (1.036–3.497), and being unvaccinated (AOR: 2.0; 95%CI (1.013–4.197) were significantly associated with being underweight. Family size of ≥ 5 (AOR = 4.4, CI (1.274–5.059), meal frequency of < 3 times per a day (AOR = 2.3, CI (1.037–5.024), and index birth interval of < 24 months (AOR = 2.2, CI (1.015–4.843) were significantly associated with wasting. Similarly, children aged ≥ 24 months (AOR = 2.8, CI (1.769–4.474), feeding non-diversified diet (AOR = 1.8, CI (1.153–2.894), total duration of breast-feeding < 12 months (AOR = 4.0, CI (2.547–6.429), and mothers BMI below 18.5 (AOR = 2.2, CI (1.328–3.718) were identified as a predictors of stunting. The study revealed significant levels of undernutrition, including underweight, wasting, and stunting, among children in the study area. Factors such as birth weight, dietary diversity score, and vaccine status were found to be strongly linked to underweight. Additionally, living in a large family, meal frequency, and birth interval were significantly associated with wasting. The age of the child, duration of breastfeeding, dietary diversity score, and maternal BMI status were also significantly linked to stunting. To address this issue, the study recommends promoting healthier feeding practices, dietary diversification, optimal breastfeeding, complete vaccination, wider birth intervals, and improving maternal nutrition to reduce undernutrition among children aged 6–59 months in the area. Implementing these measures could significantly improve the health of children in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusions Undernurition stands as a significant contributor to childhood mortality, particularly in developing nations such as India. At the grass root level, anthropometric monitoring indicators such as stunting, underweight and wasting take place within Anganwadi centres (village courtyard). The scrutiny of growth records, utilising these markers, not only quantifies the burden but also informs corrective measures. This study aimed to assess the prevailing growth monitoring records within the rural vicinity of Puducherry.A community‐based cross‐sectional study design was implemented to examine the health condition of children below 3 years of age, who were enrolled and utilising services in Anganwadi centres. The anthropometric data, such as weight and height, were collected from growth monitoring records maintained in Anganwadi. The proportions of undernutrition indicators such as stunting, underweight and wasting were presented with a 95% confidence interval (CI).Within our rural service area encompassing 13 Anganwadis, a total of 572 children aged 3 or less were registered. Notably, approximately 14.2% (95% CI: 11.5–17.3) of these children experienced underweight, 16.4% (95% CI: 13.6–19.7) were stunted and 13.3% (95% CI: 10.8–16.3) were wasted. In terms of gender disparities, the prevalence of undernurition was notably higher among boy children, with 15.4% being underweight, 16.9% stunted and 14.7% wasted.The prevalence of childhood undernurition is a public health concern, demanding the enhancement of existing nutritional initiatives to ameliorate the healthy well‐being of these children. The timely identification of malnourished children holds paramount importance, as intensified interventions can be promptly employed to uplift the health status of these vulnerable individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child stunting is a serious challenge in Indonesia, one of the largest middle-income countries in the world. Beyond the influence of bio-behavioral determinants, mothers’ bargaining power in the household is expected to have an overarching contribution to stunting, particularly as the primary caregivers of their children. Using a dataset from the fifth wave of the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS-5), this study examines whether and to what extent a mother’s bargaining power influences children’s nutritional status. The study uses the instrumental variables method to correct the potential endogeneity of the mother’s bargaining power. Results suggest that children of mothers with higher intrahousehold bargaining power have a lower prevalence of stunting and better anthropometric outcomes. However, other members of the household matter, in the sense that improved outcomes are evidenced when the mother exercises her choice in decision making in a more consensual manner, by consultation with other household members.HIGHLIGHTSIn Indonesia, higher women’s bargaining power enhances child nutritional long-term outcomes.Child nutrition improves when women make decisions jointly with other family members.Boys appear to be the main beneficiaries of mothers’ higher bargaining power.Policies to increase women’s agency need to consider family support and social norms.In Indonesia, higher women’s bargaining power enhances child nutritional long-term outcomes.Child nutrition improves when women make decisions jointly with other family members.Boys appear to be the main beneficiaries of mothers’ higher bargaining power.Policies to increase women’s agency need to consider family support and social norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sahel is a region particularly characterized by undernutrition in several forms. In Burkina Faso, where several interventions have been carried out across the past several years, the nutritional situation of children under five years of age is still characterized by persistent stunting in the Est, Sahel, and Cascades regions. This study aims to understand the factors associated with the high prevalence of chronic malnutrition in these regions. National nutrition survey data as well as data from the Ministry of Water and Sanitation were used for bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses to identify factors statistically associated with stunting in children aged 0–59 months who participated in the national nutritional surveys from 2009 to 2019. Around one in ten mothers in all regions had no schooling at all. The improving of IYCF practice has a positive impact on the reduction of the prevalence of chronic malnutrition among children in the Cascades, Est and Sahel regions. In the three target regions, gender and province were significantly associated with stunting. Fever, diarrhea, vitamin A supplementation, household size, and maternal education level were also associated with stunting but only in the Sahel and Cascades regions. Overall, the results of the study show that the fight against stunting must be carried out in a multisectoral approach and target certain provinces particularly because stunting is not uniformly present in all provinces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stunting, a consequence of chronic malnutrition, particularly affects children aged 0-24 months, impacting child mortality and development. This review aims to explore stunting prevention interventions in this age group, focusing on caregiving during the first 1000 days of life. A systematic search yielded 18 relevant studies published between 2019 and 2023, diverse in location and intervention approaches. Interventions varied from supplementation to community and healthcare programs. Integrating nutrition education with maternal support proved crucial. The review stresses the need for sustainable, context-specific approaches tailored to local contexts. Recommendations include integrating nutrition education into healthcare and community interventions. Continuous evaluation is vital. This review offers insights into stunting prevention, aiding evidence-based strategies globally. Future research should explore caregiving complexities and intervention sustainability. Nursing practitioners are key in implementing holistic approaches to stunting prevention and improving child health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child stunting is a critical concern with far-reaching consequences for the developmental prospects of affected children. To address this issue, Indonesia has initiated a targeted program to support rural families. This program's two-fold approach includes aiding with dietary needs and delivering counseling services via Community Health Centers. The primary aim of the current study was to explore the determinants that promote or inhibit engagement with this stunting prevention initiative. Methodologically, the research encompassed 10 direct observations, 45 focus group discussions, and 23 in-depth interviews to gather comprehensive data. The participants were drawn from a cross-section of the rural populace, including households, village government officials, and healthcare providers. Feedback on the program was predominantly positive, with participants demonstrating favorable perceptions towards it. Notably, the program's contribution to improving household health was apparent, serving as an impetus for active participation. Nevertheless, the research identified significant barriers to program engagement, namely the existence of social behaviors that were at odds with the program's objectives and a widespread deficit in the understanding of the importance of nutritional food security. These factors present considerable challenges to fully realizing the program's potential impact. Direct observations highlighted the program's effectiveness in regions with strong community health infrastructure. Focus group discussions underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity in program implementation, as local customs and traditions significantly influenced participation levels. In-depth interviews with healthcare providers shed light on logistical challenges, such as inconsistent supply chains for nutritional supplements and gaps in training for health workers. Village government officials emphasized the need for greater inter-agency coordination to streamline services and reduce redundancy. Despite these challenges, the program's strengths were evident. Participants appreciated the holistic approach, combining immediate dietary support with educational components aimed at fostering sustainable health practices. For the program to achieve broader success, it must address the identified barriers through targeted interventions, such as enhanced community education campaigns, improved logistical support, and greater cultural integration into program design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria, anemia, and malnutrition are global health challenges with significant morbidity and mortality, and higher rates among children particularly in Africa. This study evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of malaria infection, anemia, and malnutrition among school-going children of Charsadda (a city of Khyber, Pakistan). A total of 400 children of aged 5-10 years were included in the study in 2023. Malaria infection was confirmed by rapid diagnostic tests. Hematocrit level was obtained using a centrifuge microhematocrit and converted to hemoglobin using standard conversion. Nutritional status was determined by the anthropometric measurements, and demographic characteristics were obtained by questionnaire. Anemia and malnutrition were defined according to the World Health Organization standards. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine association between the predictor variables and primary outcomes. In current research work 400 children were selected for the assessment of malaria and nutritional status, malaria infection was found more frequent among the students 120(12%). In addition, high prevalence of anemia 105(10.5%), malnutrition 90(9%), and stunting 70(7%) was observed, while wasting 2(0.2%) and underweight 20(2%0 had very low frequency. Malaria infection, anemia, and malnutrition were observed in12%, 10.5% and 9% of the children population, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study showing the current health problems among the school-going children of district Charsadda the prevalence of malaria, anemia and malnutrition and their co-existence in children 5-10 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child stunting, closely linked with economic loss in adulthood, is largely irreversible and mainly occurs in poor countries. We estimate the impact of in utero exposure to high temperatures on child height and stunting in China. Experiencing high temperatures during the in utero period, especially during the first and second trimesters, significantly decreases height-for-age z-scores and increases the risk of stunting and severe stunting. Male children and northern children show greater responses to hot days during pregnancy. Suggestive evidence indicates that birth outcomes, household income, and parental investments may be potential channels underlying the high temperature–child height relationship. Without mitigation and adaptation measures by governments and individuals, future climate change will continue to undermine children’s development. Policymakers should pay increasing attention to pregnant women and take interventions during pregnancy to prevent the persistently harmful effects of high temperatures on child growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The skeleton embodies an individual's environment and lived experiences. Studying childhood growth disruption can, therefore, aid in understanding the experiences of children in the past. This study evaluates growth disruption in a medieval Toulousian subadult sample to explore factors that may have influenced childhood growth and mortality at this site and to assess the utility of Harris line (HL) interpretations in bioarchaeology. Materials and Methods: Femoral growth disruption was assessed in n = 71 subadults (0.125–12.42 years) from the 10th–13th century St. Étienne cemetery of Toulouse, France, using femoral length, total area, cortical area, and relative cortical area. Femoral radiographs were assessed for HLs. To determine the prevalence of growth disruption, z‐scores were calculated using data from the Denver growth study. Results: The majority of subadults in this sample suffered from femoral growth disruption. Young children (1.0–3.99 years) were the most affected, with >65% experiencing reduced appositional growth and linear growth stunting at time‐of‐death. Additionally, while many individuals presented with observable HLs, linear and appositional growth did not significantly differ between individuals with and without HLs. Discussion: Maternal malnutrition and inadequate complementary feeding practices likely contributed to the high prevalence of growth disruption among the youngest individuals in the study. The older children and adolescents buried at St. Étienne experienced an amelioration in growth deficits, indicating an improvement in nutrition and/or disease load. The results of this study suggest that more consideration is required when interpreting the presence/absence of HLs, and that studies assessing HLs may benefit from using a more individualistic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Burkina Faso, one in every four children under 5 years is stunted. Climate change will exacerbate childhood stunting. Strengthening the health system, particularly the quality of nutrition care at primary health facilities, can minimise the adverse climate effect on stunting. Thus, we examined the quality of nutritional status assessment (QoNA) during curative childcare services in primary health facilities in rural Burkina Faso and its relationship with rainfall-induced childhood stunting. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using anthropometric, rainfall, and clinical observation data. Our dependent variable was the height-for-age z-score (HAZ) of children under 2 years. Our focal climatic measure was mean rainfall deviation (MRD), calculated as the mean of the difference between 30-year monthly household-level rainfall means and the corresponding months for each child from conception to data collection. QoNA was based on the weight, height, general paleness and oedema assessment. We used a mixed-effect multilevel model and analysed heterogeneity by sex and socio-economic status. Among 5027 young (3–23 months) children (mean age 12 ± 6 months), 21% were stunted (HAZ ≤ −2). The mean MRD was 11 ± 4 mm, and the mean QoNA was 2.86 ± 0.99. The proportion of children in low, medium, and high QoNA areas was 10%, 54%, and 36%, respectively. HAZ showed a negative correlation with MRD. Higher QoNA lowered the negative effect of MRD on HAZ (β = 0.017, P = 0.003, confidence interval = [0.006, 0.029]). Males and children from poor households benefited less from the moderating effect of QoNA. Improving the quality of nutrition assessments can supplement existing efforts to reduce the adverse effects of climate change on children's nutritional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Under nutrition has been a major problem in developing countries including Tanzania; hence, contributing to about half of the deaths among young children. Objective: The current study aimed at identifying child feeding practices and determinants of stunting in children under the age of five years in Mvomero District. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 150 mother-child pairs was carried out in Turiani ward, Mvomero district in Morogoro region. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with stunting. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered sta-tistically significant. Five focus group discussions comprising 5–9 mothers with children below five years participated in the study. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data from the in-depth interviews. Results: The prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting in Mvomero district was 16.8, 42.2, and 6.2% respectively. Pre-lacteal feeding was common in the study area (40%). Children were introduced to complementary food too early (<6 months) with plain maize porridge being the first food introduced. About 57.2% of children were on the lowest tercile (≤3 food groups per day) dietary diversity score. Significant determinants of stunting were the family source of income (AOR 1.63, 95% CI: 1.99–2.3), age of a child (AOR 2.66, 95% CI: 1.03–3.50) and family size (AOR 3.22, 95% CI: 1.61–4.27). Other factors were consumption of animal foods (AOR 5.30, 95% CI: 0.26–0.60) and dietary diversity score (AOR 1.615, 95% CI: 1.014–2.574). Conclusion: Child feeding practices in the study area are sub-optimal. These findings have important implications for interventions to address stunting among children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A major cause of morbidity and mortality amongst children in displaced settings is malnutrition. Approximately, 45% of deaths are linked to undernutrition among children under 5 years of age. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of malnutrition among internally displaced (IDP) children from 6 to 59 months. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study with an analytical approach was conducted from May to June 2021. A multistage cluster sampling method was used to select mothers/caregivers and administer a structured questionnaire that consisted of three sections: sociodemographic and environmental characteristics, health-related factors and anthropometric measurements) was used to collect data. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0. Bivariate analysis was done at p < 0.20 and logistic regression at a 5% level of significance. Results: Overall, 395 children were enrolled with a mean age of 31.4 ± 9.1 months and 59.0% were males. Findings revealed that 52% of children were malnourished; stunted (22.1%), wasted (4.8%), underweight (6.3%) and overweight (35.4%). Independent predictors of overall malnutrition were the age of the mothers/caregivers (AOR: 8.0, 95% CI: 2.0 – 32.1), children who had not taken all their vaccines (AOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4 –3.8), children not dewormed (AOR: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.3–6.3), Children not exclusively breastfed (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1–9.6). Conclusion: The prevalence of malnutrition was high among children living in internally displaced households. Thus, there is a need for vaccination and deworming campaigns, and nutritional and educational intervention programmes to improve both forms of malnutrition: undernutrition and over-nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stunting and wasting are important indicators of the child's physical and cognitive impairments. These indicators are frequently associated with malnutrition and related health care. However, with the increase in air pollution threats, the role of air pollution in impacting children's growth has been speculated. This study assessed prenatal and postnatal exposure to air pollution and the effects it may have on the child's growth in five East African countries. The adjusted linear regression model showed that prenatal exposure to PM2.5 and CO reduced the height-for-age score with an increase of 1 µg/m3 in PM2.5 and 1 ppb in CO above the average values resulting in the reduction of the height-for-age score by 0.0106 (Standard Error (SE): 0.0016) and 0.0020 (SE: 0.0005) points, respectively. Moreover, the logistic regression model suggested that postnatal exposure to PM2.5, O3, and CO respectively contributed by 0.1% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): -0.7%; 0.8%), 3.0% (1.9%; 4.1%) and 1.4% (1.2%; 1.6%) on the stunting prevalence. Furthermore, the same air criteria pollutants showed significant effects on the weight-for-height and weight-for-age related indicators. These results should be useful for policies aiming at the protection of children's health in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the problems currently faced by Indonesia is nutritional problems in the form of stunting. Stunting is a disruption in the growth and development of children due to chronic malnutrition and recurrent infections, characterized by their length or height being below the standard. Methods: This descriptive research aimed to describe the condition of stunting in Tegal City and the efforts of the Tegal City government in contributing to the reduction of the stunting rate. Results: This activity has shown good results, this can be seen from the reduction in the stunting rate in Tegal City from 9.94% in 2022 to 8.21% in 2023. The program to reduce stunting rates in Tegal City was established through the formation of the stunting reduction acceleration team (SRAT). Some of the activities carried out by SRAT include sensitive services linked to poverty management program activities, such as providing integrated healthy livable houses, interventions in the use of yard land, expanding family planning acceptors, refining social assistance recipients, and providing access to drinking water and sanitation management. Specific services are carried out by strengthening specific interventions on a provincial scale, enhancing communication and behavior change by strengthening communication and behavior change and planning and monitoring the evaluation of regional apparatus organizations’ program integration. Collaboration with potential partners is also key in accelerating stunting reduction, along with ongoing monitoring and evaluation of performance. This activity has shown positive outcomes, as evidenced by the reduction in the stunting rate in Tegal City from 9.94% in 2022 to 8.21% in 2023. Conclusion: The prevalence of stunted children in Tegal City has decreased. Effective leadership, a strong civil society, and targeting vulnerable communities during the implementation of specific and sensitive nutrition interventions are the main factors that support the achievement of these targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to determine whether or not routine home visiting (by the Philani Maternal Child Health and Nutrition Project) influences the prevalence of stunted, wasted and underweight children in Cape Town peri-urban settlements. The study was a cross-sectional cohort in which weight and height measurements were collected for all children from 24 matched neighbourhoods; three years earlier 12 of these neighbourhoods were randomized to receive the home visiting intervention and 12 did not. The research took place at all households located within the 24 neighbourhoods in Khayelitsha and Mfuleni peri-urban settlements. Participants included 8715 children aged 0–6 years old (4694 intervention; 4021 control). A total of 41.3% of children were stunted, 3.1% were underweight and 1.4% were wasted. Children in the intervention group were significantly less likely to be underweight or severely underweight for age than children in the control group. While the rates of stunting were also significantly lower in intervention areas, the effect was not clinically significant, and no significant differences were found between the study arms on the prevalence of wasting. The Philani model is effective in the prevention and rehabilitation of underweight children. Philani could strengthen their intervention by focussing specifically on screening for child stunting in addition to underweight children. The results also suggests that efforts to address the long-term adverse effects of undernutrition require structural and economic transformation, in addition to socio-medical interventions.

Latar belakang. Stunting merupakan kondisi gagal tumbuh akibat kekurangan gizi secara kronis. Di Indonesia, prevalensi stunting pada tahun 2021 adalah 24,4 persen. Kondisi prevalensi stunting di Sumatera Utara juga sangat memprihatinkan. Sebanyak 13 dari 33 kabupaten/kota yang berada di Sumatera Utara memiliki prevalensi stunting di atas 30%. Kecamatan Medan Denai adalah salah satu kecamatan di Kota Medan dengan kasus gizi buruk anak tertinggi. Salah satu faktor risiko kejadian stunting adalah tingkat pendidikan ibu. Tujuan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan tingkat pendidikan dengan tingkat pengetahuan ibu tentang stunting. Metode. Penelitian analitik observasional dengan desain cross-sectional dengan sampel penelitian terdiri dari 96 responden yaitu ibu anak balita yang berdomisili dan menyekolahkan anaknya di TK/PAUD di Kecamatan Medan Denai yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi. Analisis data menggunakan uji statistik chi-square. Hasil. Pada 96 responden ditemukan tingkat pengetahuan tentang stunting yang sedang (60,4%), rendah (30,2%), dan tinggi (9,4%). Hasil analisis menunjukkan terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara tingkat pendidikan dengan tingkat pengetahuan ibu tentang stunting dengan nilai p=0,035 (p

As an endocrine disruptor chemical, pesticide exposure may affect the regulation of growth hormones such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). A few current studies to date have noted that long-term pesticide exposure disrupted IGF-1, a potential risk of stunting in children. This study aims to evaluate studies to date of the effect of pesticide exposure on stunting incidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. The PubMed and EBSCO databases were searched for relevant articles without publication restrictions. This review aimed to include reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCT), and cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional studies, which provide actual exposure types of pesticides with stunting measurement by height-age z score. A screening, extraction, and synthesis were conducted, leading to a consensus for reaching mutual agreement. The analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2017 for the screening and extraction, Revman version 5.4 software for the meta-analysis, and OpenMEE software for the meta-regression. Of the 13 studies subjected to the qualitative analysis, 6 were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis: 2 reviews, 2 RCTs, 2 cohorts, 2 case-control, and 5 cross-sectional studies. Exposure to organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticides was not associated with stunting (P=0.78; odds ratio [OR], 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65–1.88). Heterogeneity existed for 79% of the meta-analysis (P≤0.000; z=-5.37; 95% CI, -0.034 to -0.016), and the meta-regression identified age as the causative covariate. Pesticide exposure, regardless of type, is not associated with stunting in children.

Abstract Background Linear growth faltering remains a pervasive public health concern that affects many children worldwide. This study aimed to investigate possible maternal factors promoting normal linear growth among children aged 6–23 months of age from impoverished Rwandan households. Methods We used a three-stage cluster sampling procedure. The study population consisted of children aged six to 23 months and their mothers who lived in the study districts. A structured questionnaire helped to collect data from 807 selected mother-child dyads. The primary outcome variable was height-for-age Z scores. The main predictors were maternal income-generating activity, maternal education, maternal depression, household decision making, number of ANC visits, use of family planning method, types of family planning, and mode of delivery. We used univariate analysis to establish median, frequencies, and percentages. Furthermore, we used the Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Spearman rank correlation tests for bivariate analysis. We included in the final model of robust linear regression for multivariate analysis the potential confounding variables identified as significantly associated with the outcome (child age, participation in works for both parents, good handwashing practice, owning a vegetable garden, and the total number of livestock) along with maternal factors. Results Maternal factors that promoted normal linear growth of children were the presence of maternal income generation activity (β= 0.640 [0.0269 1.253], p value = 0.041), the participation of the mother in the decision-making process of the household (β=0.147 [0.080 0.214], p-value

Abstract Short stature (SS) is a condition where children's growth rates are below the 2.5th percentile for their age and gender. Early intervention is vital due to its association with reduced quality of life and mortality. This study examines the understanding of Qassimi parents regarding their child’s SS. We surveyed 384 Qassimi parents, including those with growing children and those without children willing to participate. Knowledge scores ranged from 0 to 8, with scores over 4 indicating good knowledge. Most of the study participants were Saudis, females, or holding a university degree. The mean score was 4.44 and almost 47% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge. All the study participants were aware of at least one cause of short stature. Of more than 20 causes of short stature, only 24.3% of the study participants could correctly identify 4 or more causes. Multivariable regression revealed that higher knowledge scores were significantly noted among participants younger than 40 years (p-value: 0.05). Although the knowledge status is overall moderate, it’s recommended to further start public health initiatives and educational programs, while paying special attention to population groups associated with lower knowledge level.

Abstract Background Researchers over the years have underscored the role of birth spacing on maternal health, however, inadequate maternal repletion due to shorter birth intervals could also affect the health of the child. Even so, limited studies exist on the linkage between birth spacing and child nutrition. This study examines the association between birth spacing and child stunting and underweight using the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. Methods The study sourced data on 1, 904 children less than 59 months from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. The study employed bivariate analysis and logistic regressions to establish the association between birth spacing, and child stunting and underweight. Results The analyses reveal that childbirth spacing between 24 and 35 months (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.38–0.99; p

This study analyses the role and impact of public-private partnerships to improve food security in coastal areas of Indonesia. The public-private partnership model as a tool to address poverty, food needs and stunting is examined using a qualitative exploratory technique. Additional information was gathered by the researchers via interviews, field observations and documents. The study was carried out in Indonesia’s Coastal Takalar Regency, and NVivo 12 Pro was used to visualise the data. The results showed that the parties involved in efforts to improve food security on the Takalar Regency Coast include the Food Social Service and Village Community Empowerment of Takalar Regency, Subdistrict Social Welfare Workers, village government, Mandiri Bank, food suppliers and E-Warong (noncash government assistance) agents. Findings further showed that the benefits arising from this collaboration can reduce social inequalities such as decreasing poverty, increasing food needs and reducing stunting cases in the coastal areas of Takalar Regency. This work revealed several obstacles to cooperation between the government and the private sector to improve food security through food aid programmes, namely corruption through diversion of aid funds and a lack of supervision.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Zinc deficiency is a significant global health concern, affecting around two billion people due to insufficient dietary intake. The extensive utilization of cereal-based meals with inadequate zinc content and limited bioavailability stands as the primary cause for this issue. Children who possess low levels of zinc experience stunted growth and developmental delays. They also have higher rates of morbidity from pneumonia, diarrhoea, and malaria. Inadequate zinc intake has been correlated with a heightened risk of mortality in children due to specific diseases. It is crucial to secure a satisfactory level of zinc in rice grains because of its indispensable function in various biochemical processes that are fundamental for the growth and advancement of plants. A deficiency in zinc can lead to reduced grain yield and nutritional value in rice. Recently, the utilization of registered biofertilizers and microbial technology is widely recognized in contemporary intensive farming practices. Some indigenous zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains discovered can increase rice yield and zinc content in grains. The objective of this study was to impact of a biofertilizer formula consisting of native zinc solubilizer strains on the growth, productivity, and zinc concentration in the grains of three rice varieties, namely Inpari IR Nutrizinc, Inpari 48, and Inpago 13 Fortiz. The study was conducted in a paddy field located in the Inceptisol of Subang Regency, West Java, during the year 2023.METHODS: The field trial was conducted to study the impact of a biofertilizer comprising a group of non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria, including Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Enterobacter bugandensis on rice growth, yield, zinc levels, and uptake in grains. The rhizosphere soils were the origin of these bacteria, which were obtained using agar media containing zinc oxide as insoluble zinc compounds. Prior to this, the bacterial strains were evaluated for their capacity to dissolve zinc and generate the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid. To gauge their zinc-solubilizing prowess, Pikovskaya agar media, supplemented with insoluble zinc oxide and calcium phosphate, respectively, were utilized. The presence of distinct clear areas surrounding the colonies demonstrated the effectiveness of the microbes in converting insoluble zinc and phosphorus into soluble forms. The concentration of the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid was measured using the Salkowski reagent. The field trial was organized using a split-plot design with three replications. The application of the biofertilizer mixture as a seed treatment was carried out before the transplantation of the rice nursery. The seedlings were prepared individually for each rice variety, with a comparison made between those treated with the biofertilizer and those that were not.FINDINGS: The study found that the consortium of indigenous non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria significantly increased the yield of rice varieties by about 5.6 percent and zinc content in grains by 16.3 percent. However, the application of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance the rice yield and zinc content in grains in this Inceptisol paddy soil. In terms of zinc content in grains, the rice variety Inpago 13 Fortiz exhibited a notable increase compared to the Inpari IR Nutrizinc variety, with levels of 40.3 milligrams per kilogram as opposed to 34.1 milligrams per kilogram.CONCLUSION: the utilization of a native combination of carefully chosen zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains could augment the productivity, zinc concentration, and absorption in rice grains of various varieties in a paddy field with Inceptisols soil type, characterized by a moderate to high overall zinc content and limited zinc accessibility. The addition of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance rice yield compared to the addition of other tratments or control. This is probably because of the medium-high level of the total zinc content of the soil, suggesting that the addition of Biofertizinc will reduce or delete the crop requirement for zinc fertilizer in Inceptisol paddy fields. This implies that the biofertilizer is ecologically sustainable as it eliminates the use of harmful chemicals, reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and lowers costs.

Background :Stunting is a developmental growth disorder experienced by children due to poor nutrition, recurrent infections, inadequate psychosocial stimulation, and the child's height for his age is below the average of SD STKA WHO. Indonesia has a prevalence of 36.4%. Stunting prevention involves priority interventions, namely specific nutrition interventions and sensitive interventions. Exclusive breastfeeding, including specialized interventions, plays a very important role in preventing stunting. Indonesia's Health Profile in 2019, Indonesia's exclusive breastfeeding coverage is 37.3%, while the national target is 80%, West Java 57.9% and Tasikmalaya City 56.0%, of course this will cause problems in the future related to stunting events, especially in cities. Tasikmalaya. The current problem is the low access to information obtained by mothers in increasing knowledge and literacy about breastfeeding. As an innovative product, it is used as an educational medium about breastfeeding preparation, breastfeeding attachment positions, problems and solutions in breastfeeding, breastfeeding tutorial videos and breastfeeding management as well as online consultations with breastfeeding counselors. Objectives : The purpose of this study is the influence of the golden1000 application to increase maternal efficacy literacy related to breastfeeding so that it can be successfully breastfed exclusively. Methods : This study uses a quasi-experimental design method, with a posttest only control group design approach. In this study, the treatment group was given an intervention in the form of the golden1000 menu application about breastfeeding including an educational menu about breastfeeding, video tutorials on attachment positions and an online consultation feature with a breastfeeding counselor for pregnant women in the third trimester up to 6 months of breastfeeding. Results : The results of the study found that there was a statistically different difference in the success of exclusive breastfeeding between the golden1000 application group and the KIA book group.Conclusions : The use of the golden1000 application can increase the success of breast milk givers exclusively.

Stunting is a condition of failure to thrive in children under five (toddlers) which can hinder the child's physical and mental development. Data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) shows that the number of stunted toddlers in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province is still quite high, namely 24.6%. Stunting cannot be cured but can be prevented. One of the prevention efforts is to increase the knowledge of mothers or prospective mothers regarding stunting and preventing it by providing food with high nutrition. This Community Service Activity (PKM) was carried out with the aim of educating mothers and wives of home-based beef cattle farmers in Lando Village, East Lombok, NTB about preventing stunting by providing highly nutritious supplementary food (PMT) and stunting detection. The methods used were socialization and demonstration of making toddler food. The results of this PKM activity were that there was a significant increase in participants' knowledge regarding the material being socialized (p0.0001). The conclusion that can be drawn is that There had been an increase in knowledge among PKM participants regarding stunting and preventing stunting through providing food with high protein content.

Nutrition problems are still a concern for the Indonesian government to be resolved immediately, one of which is the problem of stunting. , Bojonegoro Regency's stunting prevalence rate is 23.9 percent, making Bojonegoro the district with the 13th highest stunting prevalence of 38 districts and cities in East Java. The prevalence of stunting which is still quite high can affect Indonesia's development performance because stunting has an impact on children's health status so that children become vulnerable to illness and has an impact on children's intelligence and quality of life, so handling it is still a government priority. The innovation of the KELANTING program (Stunting Caring Grandmother Class) is present by involving academics who act as references for solving problems based on research results (based on research) in the field of midwifery and nursing. So that it is able to increase the understanding of the community, especially grandmother caregivers, so that they are able to carry out care appropriately and get used to it. children to consume foods with balanced contents. The Klanting Program is carried out with Local Food Education and Diversification in Sidobandung Village, Balen District, Bojonegoro Regency" as a pilot project for community-based stunting prevention efforts. This activity is carried out by involving 25 grandmothers who care for toddlers by carrying out outreach and education. After the Klanting activity was carried out, there was an increase in the understanding and knowledge of grandmother caregivers regarding parenting styles and food diversification to prevent stunting, namely 72% of grandmother caregivers after the clanting activity had good knowledge, compared to previously only 28%. This shows that there is an increase in the percentage of understanding and knowledge of grandmothers who care for toddlers about parenting patterns of grandmothers and local food diversification in order to increase toddlers' interest in eating food diversity and the use of local food which can prevent stunting in toddlers.

Latar Belakang: Salah satu upaya mengatasi masalah stunting pada balita khususnya di Kabupaten Lombok Tengah adalah dengan memperbaiki status gizi ibu selama masa kehamilan terutama ibu dengan kondisi Kurang Energi Kronis (KEK). Program Pemberian Makanan Tambahan (PMT) bagi ibu hamil telah diatur dalam Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan Nomor 51 Tahun 2016 dimana ibu hamil dengan kondisi KEK diberikan program perbaikan gizi yang telah ditetapkan oleh pemerintah yaitu dengan PMT berupa biskuit. Tujuan: Melakukan pengembangan produk makanan tambahan bagi ibu hamil berupa biskuit dengan pemanfaatan bahan pangan lokal bersumber kacang koro pedang. Metode: Rancangan penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 3 kali perlakuan (K=3), 1 unit percobaan dan dilakukan 3 kali pengulangan, sehingga total jumlah percobaan adalah 3×1×3=9. Dilakukan pula penambahan tepung kacang koro pedang pada produk Biskuit Canavalia dengan takaran yang berbeda, kemudian hasil yang dianalisis meliputi uji daya terima dan kandungan zat gizi diantaranya energi, protein, lemak, karbohidrat serta kalsium. Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penambahan tepung kacang koro pedang sebanyak 50 g meningkatkan daya terima responden dari segi warna, aroma, tekstur, dan rasa. Penambahan tepung kacang koro pedang 50 g pada produk Biskuit Canavalia meningkatkan kandungan gizi diantaranya energi, protein, lemak, karbohidrat serta kalsium. Kandungan zat gizi Biskuit Canavalia terbaik pada kelompok penambahan tepung kacang koro pedang 50 g meliputi energi 479 kkal, protein 26 g, lemak 21,82 g, karbohidrat 76,66 g serta kalsium 59,70 mg. Kesimpulan: Proporsi penambahan tepung kacang koro berpengaruh terhadap daya terima dan peningkatan kandungan zat gizi Biskuit Canavalia meliputi warna, aroma, tekstur, dan rasa.

Latar Belakang: Papua New Guinea memiliki prevalensi stunting tinggi mencapai 46,5% di tahun 2018. Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh faktor yang melekat pada anak (jenis kelamin, umur, dan kepemilikan jaminan kesehatan) dan faktor lingkungan rumah tangga yaitu pendidikan ibu balita, jumlah balita, sumber air minum dan jamban terhadap kejadian stunting di Papua New Guinea Tahun 2018. Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan desain penelitian cross-sectional pada data sekunder “The Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) di Papua New Guinea tahun 2018”. Dari 2.337 data balita, dilakukan proses ekstraksi dan cleaning data terhadap variabel diteliti, sehingga didapatkan 744 data balita siap dianalisis. Analisis statistik menggunakan uji chi square dan regresi logistik. Hasil: Penelitian menemukan bahwa status ibu balita tidak pernah sekolah (p-value=0,012; OR=1,488; 95% CI [1,092; 2,028] dan kelompok umur balita 24-59 bulan (p-value=0,000; OR=1,770; 95% CI [1,301; 2,408]) lebih berisiko memiliki/mengalami kejadian stunting balita. Kesimpulan: Penanganan stunting pada balita umur 24-59 bulan adalah fokus memberikan intervensi spesifik dan sensitif terutama intervensi pentingnya investasi pendidikan ibu balita di Papua New Guinea. Namun untuk pencegahan lebih dipentingkan intervensi tersebut diberikan sebelum balita berumur 24-59 bulan karena stunting merupakan manifestasi kekurangan gizi kronis.

Latar Belakang: Stunting merupakan permasalahan gizi prioritas di Indonesia. Prevalensi nasional saat ini sebesar 21,6%, di Provinsi DIY 16,4% dan di Kabupaten Sleman 15%. Program Kampung Keluarga Berkualitas (KB) merupakan inovasi yang dikembangkan untuk mengakselerasi penurunan stunting. Program ini menitikberatkan pada pemberdayaan keluarga di bidang kesehatan, pendidikan, dan ekonomi. Tujuan: Kajian ini dilakukan untuk mengevaluasi pelaksanaan dan dampak program Kampung KB di Kabupaten Sleman dalam dinamika konvergensi dengan program penurunan stunting lainnya. Metode: Kajian dilakukan dengan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Teknik pengumpulan data meliputi analisis dokumen, diskusi kelompok terarah, wawancara mendalam, dan jurnal reflektif. Wawancara dilakukan terhadap 11 narasumber dan dilakukan 4 sesi diskusi kelompok terarah. Data yang terkumpul dianalisis menggunakan teknik analisis tematik. Hasil: Terdapat 34 Kampung KB pada tahun 2022 di Kabupaten Sleman. Dari proses analisa data diperoleh 3 tema utama yaitu penerimaan terhadap program, sinergi dengan program stunting yang lain, dan tata kelola program. Beberapa organisasi perangkat daerah dan tenaga penggerak masyarakat yang terlibat dalam penanganan stunting di Kabupaten Sleman belum memahami konsep program Kampung KB, baik dari segi sasaran, target, maupun indikator capaian program, sehingga memengaruhi penerimaan stakeholder dan sinergi dengan program stunting lainnya. Program ini juga mengalami perubahan tata kelola dimana terjadi migrasi sistem dan penyesuaian dengan tata kelembagaan setempat yang memengaruhi efektivitas penyelenggaraan program. Kesimpulan: Diperlukan penguatan sosialisasi dan koordinasi agar dampak program Kampung KB lebih optimal dalam percepatan penurunan stunting. Konteks kelembagaan di setiap provinsi juga perlu dipertimbangkan agar penerimaan program lebih baik.

Abstract Malnutrition is responsible for over one-third of deaths among children under the age of five in low-and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia, and is largely preventable. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of undernutrition and its contributing factors among children aged 6–59 months in the Gedio zone of Southern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study design was used, and data were collected from 403 children and their mothers selected through random sampling technique. Anthropometric measures were converted to Z-scores using WHO-Anthro version 3.2.2 software. The prevalence of underweight, wasting, and stunting were 19.7% (95% CI 16-24%), 10% (95% CI 7–13%), and 49% (95% CI 44–54%) respectively. Low birth weight (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI (1.585–4.895), feeding non-diversified diet (AOR = 1.9, 95% CI (1.036–3.497), and being unvaccinated (AOR: 2.0; 95%CI (1.013–4.197) were significantly associated with being underweight. Family size of ≥ 5 (AOR = 4.4, CI (1.274–5.059), meal frequency of

Abstract The Sahel is a region particularly characterized by undernutrition in several forms. In Burkina Faso, where several interventions have been carried out across the past several years, the nutritional situation of children under five years of age is still characterized by persistent stunting in the Est, Sahel, and Cascades regions. This study aims to understand the factors associated with the high prevalence of chronic malnutrition in these regions. National nutrition survey data as well as data from the Ministry of Water and Sanitation were used for bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses to identify factors statistically associated with stunting in children aged 0–59 months who participated in the national nutritional surveys from 2009 to 2019. Around one in ten mothers in all regions had no schooling at all. The improving of IYCF practice has a positive impact on the reduction of the prevalence of chronic malnutrition among children in the Cascades, Est and Sahel regions. In the three target regions, gender and province were significantly associated with stunting. Fever, diarrhea, vitamin A supplementation, household size, and maternal education level were also associated with stunting but only in the Sahel and Cascades regions. Overall, the results of the study show that the fight against stunting must be carried out in a multisectoral approach and target certain provinces particularly because stunting is not uniformly present in all provinces.

This study investigates the trends in chronic malnutrition (stunting) among young children across Bangladesh's 64 districts and 544 sub-districts from 2000 to 2018. We utilized remote-sensed data–nighttime light intensity to indicate urbanization, and environmental factors like precipitation and vegetation levels–to examine patterns of stunting. Our primary data source was the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey, conducted six times within the study period. Using Bayesian multilevel time-series models, we integrated cross-sectional, temporal, and spatial data to estimate stunting rates for years not covered by the direct survey information. This approach, enhanced by remote-sensed data, allowed for greater prediction accuracy by incorporating information from neighboring areas. Our findings show a significant reduction in national stunting rates, from nearly 50% in 2000 to about 30% in 2018. Despite this overall progress, some districts have consistently high levels of stunting, while others show fluctuating levels. Our model gives more precise sub-district estimates than previous methods, which were limited by data gaps. The study highlights Bangladesh's advancements in reducing child stunting, highlighting the value of integrating remote-sensed data for more precise and credible analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) among children aged 24-59 months is one cause of chronic infection that could lead to stunting. The association of 25(OH)D and immune responses during chronic infection in stunted populations has not yet been well established. an association study of case--control data was conducted in Bandung district from October 2019 to January 2023. sociodemographic factors, stool samples, and serum levels of 25(OH)D, interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-5 (IL-5), and interleukin-13 (IL-13) were assessed. statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the prevalence and association of 25(Oh) D, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 with the burden of sth infection in stunted children. in total, 401 stunted children were recruited. a higher burden of sth infection was found for lower levels of IL-5 (r = -0.477; p = 0.004) and IL-13 (r = -0.433; p = 0.028). Thus, 25(OH)D, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 play a role in the burden of sth infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the problems currently faced by Indonesia is nutritional problems in the form of stunting. Stunting is a disruption in the growth and development of children due to chronic malnutrition and recurrent infections, characterized by their length or height being below the standard. Methods: This descriptive research aimed to describe the condition of stunting in Tegal City and the efforts of the Tegal City government in contributing to the reduction of the stunting rate. Results: This activity has shown good results, this can be seen from the reduction in the stunting rate in Tegal City from 9.94% in 2022 to 8.21% in 2023. The program to reduce stunting rates in Tegal City was established through the formation of the stunting reduction acceleration team (SRAT). Some of the activities carried out by SRAT include sensitive services linked to poverty management program activities, such as providing integrated healthy livable houses, interventions in the use of yard land, expanding family planning acceptors, refining social assistance recipients, and providing access to drinking water and sanitation management. Specific services are carried out by strengthening specific interventions on a provincial scale, enhancing communication and behavior change by strengthening communication and behavior change and planning and monitoring the evaluation of regional apparatus organizations’ program integration. Collaboration with potential partners is also key in accelerating stunting reduction, along with ongoing monitoring and evaluation of performance. This activity has shown positive outcomes, as evidenced by the reduction in the stunting rate in Tegal City from 9.94% in 2022 to 8.21% in 2023. Conclusion: The prevalence of stunted children in Tegal City has decreased. Effective leadership, a strong civil society, and targeting vulnerable communities during the implementation of specific and sensitive nutrition interventions are the main factors that support the achievement of these targets.

Background: Stunting is a nutrition problem that can slow down the growth. With prevalence at 32.5%, Landak Regency in West Kalimantan has been designated as a stunting hotspot. The lack of a maximum penalty for the stunting case in Landak Regency is not based on factors causing the stunting itself, because there is no identifiable factor causing the stunting in certain area due to narrow roads and sharp curves. Objectives: The objective of this study was to identify causes and distribution of the stunting case in Landak Regency. Methods: A total of 330 households in Meranti, Sebangki, and Senakin were included in this cross-sectional study because they were at a risk of the stunting. Toddlers, mothers, health care, and environmental factors were among the found variables. The researchers employed a basic random sampling strategy for the sampling and used the secondary health center data to find out whether or not toddlers were stunted. Researchers in this study collected data on the independent variables by observing and interviewing participants. Using the chi-square test, the data was analyzed. Results: The results showed that determinants of the stunting in Landak Regency were the history of early breastfeeding initiation (p-value=0.032), exclusive breastfeeding (p-value=0.042), frequency of exclusive breastfeeding (p-value=0.040), the continued breastfeeding (p-value=0.024), complementary feeding (p-value=0.042), immunization history (p-value=0.007), infectious disease history (p-value=0.000), maternal height (p-value=0.046), delivery assistance (p-value=0.000), access to health services (p-value=0.004), the role of health workers (p-value=0.002), and family latrine ownership (p-value=0.000). Conclusions: Several factors were found to be associated with incidence of the stunting among toddlers in Landak Regency.

Background: The composite index of anthropometric failure (CIAF) provides a comprehensive measure of growth failure through various child anthropometric indicators. In regions with a high prevalence of stunting, several factors may contribute to the occurrence of growth failure in children under five years. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the incidence of child growth failure based on the CIAF in a province with high stunting prevalence in Indonesia. Methods: The cross-sectional study used the 2022 Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) data. The sample comprised children aged 0-23 months from West Sulawesi Province, totaling 1,573 children. The number of samples analyzed was 1,327 children, excluding incomplete data and outliers that were values outside a certain range and treated as missing values based on the World Health Organization (WHO). Multivariate analysis was conducted using logistic regression with a complex sample facility. Results: This study found that 24.9% of children experienced growth failure based on the CIAF. Factors associated with the incidence of growth failure based on the CIAF were older age between 12-23 months (OR=4.5; CI=2.36-8.43; p=0.000), birth weight less than 2,500 g (OR=6.85; CI=3.85-12.21; p=0.000), boys (OR=1.56; CI=1.13-2.15; p=0.000), incomplete immunization status (OR=1.8; CI=1.31-2.77; p=0.001), and poor economic status in quintile 1 (OR=2.1; CI=1.08-3.99; p=0.028). Conclusions: The risk factors for child growth failure based on the CIAF included older age, male sex, low birth weight, incomplete immunization status, and low economic status.

Background: The stunting prevalence in Central Java Province remains high. Six key messages, i.e. iron tablet supplementation, healthy latrines, exclusive breastfeeding, Integrated Health Care Post (Posyandu) visit, hand washing, and Antenatal Care visit are the efforts to reduce the prevalence of stunting. Objectives: This study aimed to analyse the relationship between the behaviour of the six key messages and the stunting prevalence in four districts of Central Java Province. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Brebes Regency, Tegal Regency, Banyumas Regency, and Semarang City with 424 mothers who have under two-year-old children randomly selected as sample. Data were collected by interview using a structured questionnaire with the results grouped into attitude and practices categories. The body’s weight and length were measured by a digital scale and infantometer. Data were analysed using the chi-square test. Results: The findings indicated that 21.5% of children under two had stunting. Besides, behaviour regarding six key messages were mostly good. There was no association between mothers' iron tablet consumption behaviour and the nutritional status of under-two children. There was an association between maternal attitudes about exclusive breastfeeding and knowledge about hand washing with length for age index (p=0.004). There was also an association between antenatal care and Posyandu visits practice with weight for age index (p=0.004 and 0.018). There was a relationship between attitude regarding the use of latrines and the weight for length index (p=0.001). Conclusions: Only the key messages of exclusive breastfeeding attitude, antenatal care visit practice, Posyandu visit practice, and hand washing attitude were associated with the nutritional status of under-two children.