The Relationship Between a History of Anemia and Chronic Energy Deficiency (CED) in Pregnant Women and the Incidence of Stunting in Toddlers at Singajaya Public Health Center, Garut Regency

Abstract

Background: Stunting remains a major public health issue in Indonesia, with chronic maternal malnutrition contributing significantly to its prevalence. Maternal anemia and chronic energy deficiency (CED) during pregnancy have been identified as potential risk factors for impaired child growth. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between a history of anemia and chronic energy deficiency (CED) in pregnant women and the incidence of stunting in toddlers at Singajaya Public Health Center, Garut Regency. Methods: This was an analytical observational study with a case-control design, involving 52 toddlers aged 6–59 months—26 stunted and 26 non-stunted. Data were collected through medical records and structured questionnaires. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin <11 g/dL, while CED was defined as mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) <23.5 cm. Bivariate analysis was conducted using the chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: A significant association was found between maternal CED and stunting (p = 0.02; OR = 4.900; 95% CI: 1.413–16.988). However, no significant relationship was observed between maternal anemia and stunting (p = 0.75). The majority of mothers in the stunting group had lower educational attainment and were unemployed, potentially influencing their nutritional status during pregnancy. Conclusion: Maternal CED during pregnancy is significantly associated with the incidence of stunting in toddlers, while anemia is not. These findings highlight the need for targeted maternal nutrition interventions, particularly routine MUAC screening and nutrition education during pregnancy, to reduce stunting prevalence in the Singajaya PHC area.