Pencegahan Stunting Melalui Edukasi dan Pemberian Makanan Tambahan Bagi Balita Di Desa Kalembu Kaha Kabupaten Sumba Barat Daya

Abstract

The implementation of stunting education activities and the provision of additional food to residents is based on the problem of stunting which is a serious problem in public health in Indonesia, especially in the regions. This is because the level of parental education is still quite low. Stunting is a condition of growth failure in children that usually occurs due to malnutrition and chronic malnutrition in the critical period of growth, especially from early life to the age of 2 to 5 years. There are several identification problems that arise and are experienced by partners, including: Stunting is not only a problem of physical growth, but also related to children's cognitive and social development. Stunting can result in a decrease in quality of life and productivity in the future; Children who are stunted have a higher risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and other metabolic disorders later in life; Many communities, especially in rural or urban areas with poor access, do not understand the importance of nutrition in child growth; People do not have the ability or purchasing power to obtain food; Parents do not have a permanent job so they have a fixed income.  The method of implementing the activity consists of several stages, including: (1) The service activity team conducts surveys and observations, (2) The team obtains data from the health center and the village government, (3) Education and distribution for stunted toddlers. Through this service activity, the community gained knowledge and understanding of the importance of nutrition and health for children. Another thing that can be obtained is that people get basic necessities (rice, milk, and eggs). The provision of this additional food is to help ease the burden of family life.