Factors Associated with the Incidence of Chronic Energy Deficiency in Pregnant Women
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Fitri Khoiriyah
Meiyati Simatupang
Jenni Susi Sihite
Background: Chronic energy deficiency (CED) in pregnant women is a nutritional problem that can be related to maternal health and fetal growth. Identifying factors associated with CED is necessary to support maternal nutrition interventions. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between energy intake, protein intake, education, family income, and antenatal care with the incidence of CED in pregnant women.
Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design in the Tukka Community Health Center (Puskesmas) working area, Central Tapanuli Regency, in 2024. A total of 120 pregnant women were involved through a total sampling technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed univariately and bivariately using the chi-square test with SPSS.
Results: Energy intake, protein intake, and family income showed a statistically significant relationship with the incidence of CED (p < 0.05). Education (p = 0.177) and antenatal check-up (p = 0.131) did not show a statistically significant relationship in the study sample.
Conclusion: Energy intake, protein intake, and family income are associated with the incidence of CED in pregnant women. Health services need to consider assessing adequate intake, providing nutritional counseling, and providing appropriate dietary support to pregnant women. These findings indicate an association and cannot be used to conclude a causal relationship.
