The relationship between religious leaders and the knowledge of mothers in reducing stunting: a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Stunting is the main threat to the realization of quality Indonesian human resources and must be handled jointly by all parties. Several factors cause stunting, including the deficiency of knowledge among mothers about health and nutrition. Religious leaders are believed to have great authority in society and are an alternative to increasing mothers’ knowledge and attitudes.

Objective: This literature review aims to discuss the relationship of religious leaders in increasing maternal knowledge to reduce stunting.

Methods: This research method is the result of a literature review. This study was obtained from 3 databases, namely Scopus, Google Scholar, and articles from the mass media using exclusion and inclusion criteria.

Results: From articles that reviewed religious leaders and maternal knowledge for stunting reduction, it was found that policies aimed at quickening stunting deterrence were passable at the central, regional, and district levels, but rules on spiritual methods were still inadequate. Religious leaders do not get passable evidence related to stunting, so they cannot do their best back to the public.

Conclusion: Religious and stunting issues are very relevant when conveyed by religious leaders. Religious leaders can act as social agents in preventing stunting through their religious activities. Religious leaders have the role of the main actor in disseminating information. Strategies to accelerate stunting prevention through a religious method by using suitable methods and communication networks such as premarital counseling, religious knowledge councils, and sermons.