Maternal Factors, Low Birth Weight, and Early Stimulation as Determinants of Stunting in Children Aged 24-36 Months: A Systematic Review
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Stunting among children aged 24–36 months is associated with various maternal, perinatal, and environmental factors. This systematic review examined the relationships between maternal factors, birth weight, early stimulation, and stunting in this age group. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were identified through searches of six major databases and selected based on predefined eligibility criteria, including study design, participants’ age, and the exposure variables examined. A narrative synthesis was used to summarize the findings. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the JBI checklist, while potential risks of bias were also considered. Ten studies were included in the final review. The findings indicated that several maternal factors, including nutritional status, tetanus toxoid immunization, household income, and the quality of antenatal care, were associated with stunting. Low birth weight emerged as a recurring predictor, with reported risk estimates ranging from 1.74 to 3.12. Early stimulation, particularly through responsive parenting and a supportive home environment, was identified as a potentially protective factor. However, differences in measurement methods and study designs limited the comparability of the findings. Variations were also observed in the assessment of exposures and confounding factors, although most studies met the minimum criteria for methodological quality. Overall, the evidence suggests that maternal factors, birth weight, and early stimulation are relevant to stunting among children aged 24–36 months. These findings highlight the need for integrated maternal and child health interventions that address maternal nutrition, access to quality antenatal care, the prevention of low birth weight, and family-based early stimulation to support healthy growth and development.
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