The Effectiveness of Leaflets in Improving Breastfeeding Mothers’ Knowledge of Stunting Prevention in Masalili Village

Abstract

Stunting remains a public health challenge in Muna Regency, with a prevalence exceeding the national target (29.8%). Breastfeeding mothers’ lack of knowledge regarding child-rearing practices and nutrition is one of the primary risk factors. Educational interventions using practical, self-directed media such as leaflets are needed to improve health literacy at the village level. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of using leaflets to improve breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge regarding stunting prevention in Masalili Village, Muna Regency. This is a quasi-experimental study with a non-equivalent control group design. The sample consisted of 30 breastfeeding mothers divided into two groups (15 in the intervention group and 15 in the control group) using purposive sampling. The intervention group received education using leaflets, while the control group received conventional education. The research instrument was a validated knowledge questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using univariate and bivariate methods with the Paired T-test using SPSS version 26.0 at a 95% confidence level. The results of the study showed a significant increase in the average knowledge score in the intervention group, from 66.5 (SD 7.2) to 86.4 (SD 5.1), with a p-value of 0.002. Meanwhile, in the control group, the increase in knowledge was not statistically significant, from 65.3 (SD 6.9) to 70.7 (SD 6.5) with a p-value of 0.180. There was a difference of 16.9 in the increase in knowledge scores in the group that received the leaflet. The leaflet was significantly effective in increasing breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge regarding stunting prevention. The use of concise, self-contained visual media is highly recommended for health workers at community health centers as a routine health promotion tool in efforts to reduce stunting rates in rural areas