An Analysis of Specific Nutritional Interventions as a Regional Development Program and Their Impact on Stunting Prevalence in Batu Bara Regency
Ahmad Rifa’i *
Regional and Rural Development Planning, Graduate School, Medan, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Indonesia.
Heru Santosa
Regional and Rural Development Planning, Medan, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Indonesia.
Satia Negara Lubis
Regional and Rural Development Planning, Medan, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Indonesia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Stunting is a persistent public health issue in Indonesia, particularly in districts such as Batu Bara, which has historically reported high prevalence rates. This study examines the effectiveness of specific nutritional interventions—namely Vitamin A supplementation and supplementary feeding—in reducing stunting prevalence from 2021 to 2023. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, secondary data from 12 sub-districts were analyzed through multiple regression modeling using EViews version 10, employing the Fixed Effect Model to determine statistical significance. Results indicate a substantial reduction in stunting prevalence, from 30.9% in 2021 to 15.7% in 2023. Vitamin A supplementation coverage reached 87.6%, while supplementary feeding achieved 78.6% coverage. Both interventions were found to significantly contribute to stunting reduction (p < 0.05), with the most notable impact observed in Medang Deras and Ujung Kubu. These findings underscore the importance of sustained inter-sectoral coordination and community engagement to close implementation gaps and meet Indonesia’s national target of 14% by 2024.
Keywords: Stunting, Vitamin A, nutritional interventions, supplementary feeding, public health, Indonesia, batu bara