Implementation of the Stunting Reduction Acceleration Program in the Sepaso Area as a Strategy for Improving Child Health

Implementasi Program Percepatan Penurunan Stunting di Wilayah Sepaso Sebagai Strategi Peningkatan Kesehatan Anak

Abstract

Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem that affects the quality of human resources in Indonesia, including in Kutai Timur, where the prevalence remains relatively high. Efforts to accelerate stunting reduction in Sepaso Village are carried out through an educative and collaborative approach involving various community elements. The interventions include counseling for adolescents about anemia and stunting, education for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers about balanced nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, as well as healthy parenting and environmental sanitation practices. Additionally, monitoring of toddler growth, provision of vitamins and deworming medication, and recording of child development charts for early detection of stunting risk are also conducted. The results of these activities show an increase in understanding and active participation of the community in maintaining maternal and child health, which is a crucial factor in stunting prevention. Collaboration between community health centers (puskesmas), posyandu cadres, schools, and village communities has proven to strengthen the effectiveness of the program. Thus, an integrated educative strategy based on community participation can be a significant step in reducing stunting rates while creating a healthier and higher-quality generation.