Hubungan Sanitasi Lingkungan dengan Kejadian Stunting di Desa Parbuluan III Kecamatan Parbuluan Kabupaten Dairi

Abstract

Parbuluan III Village has the highest prevalence of stunting in the working area of Sigalingging Public Health Center, Dairi Regency, which is 27.8 percent or 50 out of 180 children under five. Stunting is a condition of impaired growth in children due to chronic malnutrition and recurrent infections, often influenced by poor environmental sanitation. This study aims to determine the relationship between environmental sanitation and the incidence of stunting among children under five in Parbuluan III Village, Parbuluan District, Dairi Regency. This research uses a quantitative method with a cross-sectional design. Sampling was carried out using simple random sampling with a total of 64 respondents. Primary data were collected through observation and interviews using a questionnaire, while secondary data were obtained from local health facilities. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate methods with the chi-square test. The results show a significant relationship between the availability of proper latrines (p = 0,024), access to clean water (p = 0,000), household wastewater management (p = 0,013), and waste management (p = 0,025) with stunting incidence. Most stunted children live in environments with poor sanitation conditions. In conclusion, poor environmental sanitation is associated with a higher incidence of stunting. It is recommended that families, especially mothers, improve household sanitation by ensuring access to proper latrines, clean water, and appropriate waste and wastewater management to reduce the risk of infection-related stunting. This study also highlights the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration, including local government and health workers, in providing adequate sanitation facilities. With such collaboration, efforts to reduce stunting rates can be more effective and sustainable. Furthermore, health education in the community plays a crucial role in ensuring early prevention of stunting.