Determinants of Stunting Incidence in North Aceh Regency in 2025: The Role of Chronic Energy Deficiency (CED) Among Pregnant Women and Undernutrition in Children Under Five

Abstract

Stunting is a chronic nutritional disorder that has serious consequences for children's physical growth, cognitive development, and overall quality of life. This condition results from prolonged inadequate nutrient intake and recurrent infections, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach using purposive sampling. The participants consisted of policymakers and nutrition program implementers from the North Aceh District Health Office. The findings indicate that although the prevalence of stunting in North Aceh has declined, it remains relatively high and exceeds the threshold established by the World Health Organization (WHO). The major determinants identified include maternal nutritional status, particularly Chronic Energy Deficiency (CED), suboptimal breastfeeding practices, inadequate nutritional knowledge, and unequal access to healthcare services and sanitation. Furthermore, the findings reveal that children born to mothers with CED are at a greater risk of developing stunting due to impaired intrauterine growth. Recommended interventions include early identification of risk factors, strengthening maternal nutrition education, and enhancing nutrition-specific interventions implemented by the District Health Office. Stunting prevention and management should be carried out through comprehensive, integrated, and evidence-based strategies to effectively reduce its prevalence in line with national and global targets.