Volume 6 | Issue -14
Volume 6 | Issue -14
Volume 6 | Issue -14
Volume 6 | Issue -14
Volume 6 | Issue -14
Context/Background: The occurrence of stunting in East Luwu Regency has risen in 2022. Aims/Objectives: This study aimed to identify whether family meals are associated with stunting in children aged 24-59 months in Burau District, East Luwu Regency. Methodology: This case-control study involved 136 children (68 cases and 68 controls) selected through systematic random and purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17. Results: Children who ate breakfast with their family less than once a week had a higher risk of stunting (adjusted OR 6.76, 95% CI 1.66-27.44, p=0.008), as did those who ate dinner with their family less than once a week (adjusted OR 4.69, 95% CI 1.35-16.27, p=0.015). Children whose parents never modeled eating fruits (adjusted OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.15-10.55, p=0.027) or vegetables (adjusted OR 5.81, 95% CI 1.44-23.35, p=0.013) had a higher risk of stunting. The use of TV/phones during meals was associated with an increased risk of stunting (adjusted OR 5.22, 95% CI 1.18-22.94, p=0.029). Conclusions: Family mealtimes were protective against stunting in East Luwu Regency. Promoting the benefits of a family mealtime routine can be an effective strategy for preventing stunting.