Stunting is one of the key indicators of chronic nutritional problems that have long-term impacts on children’s growth and development. The prevalence of stunting in Indonesia remains high and has become a national priority in improving community nutritional status. This study aimed to determine the relationship between socio-demographic factors and the incidence of stunting among toddlers in the working area of the Tanoh Alas Health Center, Tanoh Alas District, Southeast Aceh Regency in 2025.
This research employed an analytical quantitative design with a cross- sectional approach. The sample consisted of 93 respondents—mothers with children under five years of age selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through interviews and observations using questionnaires and observation sheets conducted from June 19 to July 3, 2025. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-Square test and multiple logistic regression.
Univariate analysis showed that 33.3% of children were stunted, 34.4% had poor access to health services, and 68.8% lived in houses that did not meet health standards. Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between maternal age (p = 0.007; COR = 3.32), maternal education (p = 0.012; COR = 9.57), maternal occupation (p = 0.002; COR = 14.2), access to health services (p = 0.001; COR = 4.74), family income (p = 0.032; COR = 2.69), and healthy housing (p = 0.007; COR = 4.56) with the incidence of stunting. Multivariate analysis indicated that access to health services had the strongest association with stunting (p = 0.010; OR = 4.294; 95% CI: 1.411–13.06). Children with limited access to health services were 4.3 times more likely to experience stunting.
In conclusion, all variables studied showed significant relationships with stunting incidence. Access to health services emerged as the most dominant factor compared to other variables. It is recommended that the Tanoh Alas Health Center enhance the accessibility and quality of maternal and child health services and implement multisectoral interventions involving health, education, and social sectors to comprehensively address the risk factors. Strengthening health education for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers is also crucial to prevent stunting.