PEMBERDAYAAN KELUARGA MELALUI EDUKASI 1000 HARI PERTAMA KEHIDUPAN SEBAGAI UPAYA PENCEGAHAN STUNTING DIKECAMATAN CEMPAGA KABUPATEN KOTAWARINGIN TIMUR

Abstract

Stunting is a major public health problem that adversely affects physical growth, cognitive development, and the quality of human resources. Stunting prevention can be achieved by optimizing nutritional and health interventions during the First 1,000 Days of Life (1,000 HPK), a critical period from conception until a child reaches two years of age. However, inadequate family knowledge regarding the importance of this period remains a significant challenge. This community service program aimed to improve family knowledge of the First 1,000 Days of Life as a strategy for stunting prevention in Cempaga District, Kotawaringin Timur Regency. Participants included pregnant women, mothers of children under five, prospective brides and grooms, Posyandu (Integrated Health Service Post) cadres, and other family members. The program was conducted through health education sessions, interactive discussions, demonstrations of nutritious meal preparation, distribution of educational materials, and evaluation using pretest and posttest assessments. The results indicated an improvement in participants' knowledge following the educational intervention. Participants also demonstrated a better understanding of balanced nutrition, antenatal care, iron supplementation, exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate complementary feeding, immunization, and clean and healthy living behaviors. Education on the First 1,000 Days of Life was effective in improving family knowledge as an important strategy for stunting prevention