Analysis of Maternal Knowledge and Complementary Feeding Patterns as Risk Factors for Stunting in Children Aged 6-24 Months

Introduction: Nutritional status during the critical period of 6–24 months relies heavily on appropriate Complementary Feeding (MP-ASI), a practice directly modulated by maternal health literacy. Objective: This study analyzed the correlation between maternal knowledge levels and complementary feeding patterns with the nutritional status of children aged 6–24 months in Central Lombok Regency. Method: This cross-sectional study involved 73 mothers selected via consecutive sampling in the Penujak Public Health Center area. Maternal knowledge and feeding patterns were assessed using validated questionnaires, while nutritional status (Length-for-Age) was derived from secondary data. Data were analyzed using the Spearman’s rho test. Result and Discussion: Stunting prevalence was critically high at 57.5%. Most mothers (50.7%) had 'moderate' knowledge. Bivariate analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between maternal knowledge and nutritional status (r=0.297; p=0.011). Furthermore, a moderately strong correlation was found between complementary feeding patterns and nutritional status (r=0.531; p