Spatial Autocorrelation Analysis of Stunting Prevalence in Central Java Province

Abstract

Stunting remains high in Central Java, with a prevalence of 20.8% in 2022, posing a serious threat to the realization of Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045 due to its direct impact on future human resource quality. This study aims to examine the spatial autocorrelation of stunting prevalence in Central Java Province in 2023. An quantitative descriptive study was conducted using aggregated data from 35 districts/cities. Secondary data were sourced from the 2023 Central Java Health Profile and the Central Bureau of Statistics. Data analysis employed Moran’s Index and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) using GeoDa software. This study shows that each stunting determinant has a distinct spatial pattern in Central Java Province. The variables of adequate sanitation, chronic energy deficiency (CED), and exclusive breastfeeding exhibit significant spatial patterns, whereas iron supplementation (TTD 90), low birth weight (LBW), and access to clean drinking water display random distributions. Adequate sanitation forms a significant cluster in Wonogiri, CED is concentrated in Tegal, Pemalang, Purbalingga, and Banyumas, while high exclusive breastfeeding coverage is found in Purworejo and low coverage in Salatiga. Integrated interventions that incorporate spatial factors and local determinants are essential to effectively and equitably reduce stunting prevalence across Central Java.