Essential Indicators and Stunting Prevalence: An Aggregate Analysis in the Locus Villages of the Stunting Reduction Acceleration Program

The analysis aimed to evaluate the attainment of essential indicators of stunting prevalence in local villages under the Stunting Reduction Acceleration Program. Data were sourced from the Emonev Stunting Ministry of Home Affairs Dashboard, comprising aggregated information from 232 locus villages across 12 districts/cities in Riau Province for 2023. Stunting prevalence was the dependent variable, whereas essential attainment indicators served as the independent variables. Spearman’s correlation and linear regression analyses were performed. The findings revealed that 15 fundamental indicators, including exclusive breastfeeding (52,9%), did not meet the targets. Indicators that achieved targets included adolescent girls consuming iron pills, reduced unwanted pregnancies, adequate complementary feeding for children aged 6–23 months, and management services for malnourished children under the age of five. Exclusive breastfeeding was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of stunting (r = -0.134, p < .05). Interventions targeting exclusive breastfeeding could reduce stunting by up to 6.9% per 1% increase in coverage. The analysis emphasized the importance of improving essential indicators that remain below target indicators that directly influence stunting, such as exclusive breastfeeding, and require specific interventions. Recommendations include addressing the underlying challenges and providing lactation counselors at health centers in locus villages to promote breastfeeding practices and reduce stunting prevalence.