The Effect of Family Income on Stunting Incident in Preschool Children at Bogor City During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background:The global COVID-19 pandemic has increased the risk of malnutrition in young children, including stunting,especially those under five years old. Stunting incident was often found in low income families who were unable to afford nutritious food. During COVID-19 pandemic, certain types of food might not be available and affordable for some families. The stunting incident could be increased due to decline in family income, change in food availability and disruption to health and social services.Objective: To determine the effect of family income during COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of stunting in preschool children at PuspaBangsa Kindergarten, Bogor City.Method: This type of research was analytical survey with cross sectional approach. The total sample was 35 families who had their children studied at PuspaBangsa Kindergarten. The instrument in this study was filling out a questionnaire using Google Form on family income and weight of preschool children to determine the incidence of stunting in preschool children. Conclusion:7 participants (20%) were found with family income less than the Regional Minimum Wage. The results of univariate analysis for stunting incident variables were as followed: normal height category 23 (65.7%) and very short height category 4 (11.4%). The statistical analysis obtained p-value = 0.02, which means there was significant relationship between family income and the incidence of stunting at Puspa Bangsa Kindergarten, Bogor City.

Impact of socioeconomic change and hygiene sanitation during pandemic COVID-19 towards stunting

“…The COVID-19 epidemic had a significant influence on family income. As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, physical separation, local lockdown, and school closure were implemented [10]. There were reductions or closures of business activities in various industries, and some workers had salary reductions or delays, while many others were laid off from their jobs.…”