Predisposing Factors Influencing Stunting Prevention Among Fishermen Families in the Coastal Areas of Deli Serdang Regency

Abstract

Deli Serdang Regency has the highest number of families at risk of stunting in North Sumatra Province. Among the four sub-districts with the largest number of stunting families, two are located in coastal areas: Percut Sei Tuan District and Hamparan Perak District. This study explores the predisposing factors influencing stunting prevention among fishermen families in the coastal areas of Deli Serdang Regency. The research uses an observational quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design and was conducted in 2024. The population includes 4,798 families where the head of the household works as a fisherman. A sample of 257 households was selected. The dependent variable is stunting prevention, while the independent variables include predisposing factors: education, work, knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. Data were collected through interviews. Bivariate analysis was performed using the chi-square test and multivariate analysis was conducted with multiple logistic regression. The results showed that education (p=0.001), knowledge (p=0.001), attitudes (p=0.001), and beliefs (p=0.001) were related to stunting prevention, while work (p=0.108) was not significantly related to stunting prevention. Knowledge is the most significant factors influencing stunting prevention among fishermen families in the coastal areas of Deli Serdang Regency (Exp=8.571 (95% CI: 2.134–30.751); p=0.001). Education, knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs are factors that influence stunting prevention among fishermen families in the coastal areas of Deli Serdang Regency. The health department should focus on optimizing maternal and child health programs in the coastal areas to prevent stunting, through education and counselling to increase the knowledge and awareness of the community.