Abstrak

Background. Stunting is a chronic malnutrition problem caused by prolonged duration of insufficient nutritional intake due to feeding inappropriate to nutritional needs. Malnutrition in children increases the mortality in infants and children, causing susceptibility to illness and non-optimal posture in adulthood. Malnutrition problem, other than macronutrient deficiency, can also be caused by micronutrient deficiency. One of the micronutrients that have benefits and vital to the growth and development of human is zinc (Zn).
Objective. To analyze the correlation between normal plasma zinc level and length velocity in stunting children.
Methods. Observational analytical study with cross-sectional approach was conducted in children aged between 1 and 2 years old in several community health centers in Surakarta from January 2019 to June 2019. The blood samples were analyzed in Prodia laboratory from January 2019 to June 2019.
Results. Our study found a correlation (rk) value of 0.554, meaning there was a positive correlation between zinc level and length velocity, with moderate correlation power. The p-value was 0.001 (p < 0>Conclusion. There is a significant correlation between normal plasma zinc level and length velocity in 1-2 years old stunting children. Zinc supplementation and consumption of zinc-contained foods can increase growth in children with abnormal growth pattern without other abnormalities.

Keywords: Zinc, supplement, stunting, length velocity, micronutrient.