Journal La Medihealtico

The Role of Maternal Stress Epigenetics in the Risk of Stunting among Children Aged 0–24 Months: A Community-Based Longitudinal Study

Juli Purnama Hamudi — 2026-07-29

Stunting is a major child health problem influenced by multiple factors, including maternal conditions during pregnancy. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between maternal stress, epigenetic mechanisms, and the risk of stunting in children aged 0–24 months. A community-based prospective longitudinal cohort design was employed, involving 30 pregnant women who were followed until their children reached 24 months of age. Maternal stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), while epigenetic analysis was conducted via DNA methylation of the IGF2 gene from umbilical cord blood samples. Stunting status was determined based on length-for-age (LAZ) according to WHO standards. The results indicated a tendency toward an increased risk of stunting among mothers with high stress levels (OR=9.00; p>0.05), along with increased IGF2 methylation. Although not statistically significant, the pattern of association was clinically consistent. It is concluded that maternal stress may increase the risk of stunting through epigenetic mechanisms. Integrating stress management into antenatal care is recommended as a strategy for stunting prevention.

The Effectiveness of Combined Deep-Breathing Relaxation and Endorphin Massage in Reducing Pain and Anxiety During the Active Phase of the First Stage of Labor

Via Zakiah — 2026-07-29

Pain and anxiety during the active phase of the first stage of labor may increase physiological stress responses and potentially interfere with labor progress. Complementary therapies, including deep breathing relaxation and endorphin massage, have been widely used as non-pharmacological approaches to improve maternal comfort. To analyze the effectiveness of a complementary therapy combining deep breathing relaxation and endorphin massage in managing pain and anxiety during the active phase of the first stage of labor. A quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design was conducted from January to March 2026 in the coastal area of Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. A total of 30 participants were recruited using purposive sampling and divided into an intervention group (n=15) and a control group (n=15). Pain intensity was assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), while anxiety levels were measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). The intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in pain intensity from 7.80 to 4.20 (p=0.000) and in anxiety levels from 26.5 to 18.3 (p=0.000). The mean reduction in pain (3.60 ± 0.75) and anxiety (8.20 ± 1.90) was significantly greater than that observed in the control group (p = 0.000). The combination of deep breathing relaxation and endorphin massage is an effective complementary therapy for reducing pain intensity and anxiety during the active phase of the first stage of labor and may be integrated into routine maternity care.

Prevalence and Socioeconomic Determinants of Food Insecurity Among Undergraduate Students in Indonesia: A Multi-Institutional Cross-Sectional Study

Netta Meridianti Putri — 2026-08-06

Food insecurity among university students has become an important public-health issue, but evidence from Indonesia is lacking. This study estimated the prevalence and identified socioeconomic determinants of food insecurity among undergraduate students in Indonesia. We conducted a cross-sectional survey in November 2024 of 635 undergraduate students recruited from several higher-education institutions in Indonesia, mostly Universitas Tidar. Food insecurity was measured using the validated ten-item United States Department of Agriculture Adult Food Security Survey Module; raw scores ranged from 0–10 and were categorised into food secure, low, or very low food security, then dichotomised into food insecure (score ≥3) versus food secure. Sociodemographic and economic characteristics were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, and body-mass index was classified using Asia-Pacific cut-offs. Associations were examined using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. The internal consistency of the food security module was good (Cronbach's α = 0.80). Overall, 43.3% of students were food insecure (95% CI 39.5–47.2), comprising 28.7% with low and 14.6% with very low food security. In the adjusted model, students living independently in boarding houses had markedly higher odds of food insecurity than those living with parents (adjusted odds ratio 4.91; 95% CI 3.27–7.38), and a clear dose–response gradient was observed for monthly allowance, with the lowest-allowance group at greatest risk (adjusted odds ratio 4.99; 95% CI 2.82–8.83). Sex, parental education, and smoking status were not significant after adjustment.