Strengthening Community-Based Total Sanitation (CBTS) in Stunting Prevention at Telaga Dewa Public Health Center, Bengkulu City

Background: Poor sanitation is one of the main causes of the high prevalence of stunting and infectious diseases, especially in developing countries like Indonesia. Community-Based Total Sanitation (CBTS) is a strategic approach that involves active community participation in creating a clean and healthy environment through five main pillars: stopping open defecation, handwashing with soap, safe management of drinking water and food, household waste management, and household liquid waste management.Aims: The goal of this activity is to strengthen CBTS (Comprehensive Integrated Service Delivery System) in preventing stunting and reducing the risk of infection spread.Methods: The method used in this research was health education on strengthening CBTS, encompassing the stages of planning, preparation, implementation, and evaluation.Results: Results show that before the intervention, the average knowledge score of respondents was 2.88 with a standard deviation of 0.71 and a standard error of 0.14. After the intervention, the average score increased to 4.35 with a standard deviation of 0.63 and a standard error of 0.12. The increase in the average score of 1.46 points indicates that the intervention had a positive impact on increasing respondents' knowledge.Conclusion: This CBTS strengthening education program can increase public understanding and knowledge about CBTS and its relationship to stunting in toddlers. Through synergy between the government, the community, and other stakeholders, CBTS can become a sustainable solution to address complex public health issues. Practical strategies for strengthening CBTS in local communities, including community empowerment, and community-based education, are needed.