Relationship Between Hygiene Behavior, Waste Processing, and Garbage Management with Stunting Incidence in Children Under Five

This study investigated the correlation between environmental factors and the prevalence of stunting in Astambul District, Banjar Regency, where stunting rates markedly surpass the national target of 14%. A quantitative observational analytic study employing a cross-sectional design was performed on 110 children aged 0-59 months, recruited via proportionate random selection. Data gathering employed observation sheets and questionnaires to evaluate hygiene behaviors, waste management techniques, and waste disposal methods. The study indicated that 42.7% of children in the district experienced stunting, with 95.5% of respondents displaying poor hygiene habits, 64.5% demonstrating inadequate waste management, and 51.8% revealing poor waste disposal methods. Bivariate analysis revealed significant relationships between stunting and the three environmental factors: hygiene habits (OR=2.5, p=0.008), waste management (OR=13.438, p<0.01), and waste disposal (OR=9.778, p<0.01). The data indicate that adverse environmental circumstances, especially in river-dependent populations, significantly contribute to the elevated prevalence of stunting. The most significant correlation was identified with insufficient waste management, demonstrating a 13.4-fold elevation in stunting risk. The study finds that enhancing environmental conditions via improved hygiene practices, waste management, and sanitation systems, particularly in riverine regions, is essential for diminishing stunting prevalence in the area. These findings underscore the necessity for improved health promotion and intersectoral collaboration in stunting prevention initiatives.