Mapping Socio-Cultural Factors and the Role of Traditional Institutions in Stunting Prevention through the Utilization of Secondary Data in West Aceh District
Keywords:
stunting, local-wisdom, socio-cultural factors, secondary dataAbstract
Stunting remains a complex and multidimensional public health problem in Indonesia, including in West Aceh District, where prevalence rates remain high despite various intervention programs. Socio-cultural factors, local wisdom, and the role of traditional institutions significantly influence community behavior toward stunting prevention. Utilizing secondary data provides a strategic approach to mapping the relationship between socio-cultural dimensions and the role of customary institutions, particularly within the local wisdom context of West Aceh, which is characterized by strong community-based and religious social systems. This study aims to map socio-cultural factors and the role of traditional institutions in stunting prevention in West Aceh District by utilizing secondary data from official sources. This research employed a descriptive–analytic design using secondary data obtained from the Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI), Indonesian Health Survey (SKI), West Aceh District Health Office reports, and local government documents related to stunting reduction programs. The analysis applied the Health Belief Model (HBM) framework to assess perceived susceptibility, benefits, barriers, and social support influencing stunting prevention behaviors, combined with spatial and thematic analysis to map socio-cultural variations and community wisdom across villages. Findings revealed that socio-cultural factors such as meuseuraya (mutual cooperation), religious values, and local dietary practices positively contribute to stunting prevention behaviors. Traditional institutions, including tuha peut, keuchik, and imum meunasah, act as educational agents and social mobilizers that enhance public compliance with healthy living practices and healthcare utilization. Nevertheless, variations were observed among villages in terms of participation levels and institutional effectiveness, particularly in rural areas less exposed to formal interventions. Secondary data analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the interrelations between socio-cultural factors and the role of traditional institutions in stunting prevention in West Aceh. Strengthening the integration of the Health Belief Model framework with local wisdom is crucial for developing culturally responsive, participatory, and sustainable policies to accelerate stunting reduction.
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