Highland Living and Anemia Risk: Examining the Role of Hemoglobin and the Culture of Drinking Tea and Coffee in Stunting Prevention

Abstract

Abstract One of the health problems that can cause stunting is anemia, a condition where the function of red blood cells (RBC) is impaired, leading to reduced oxygen transport and resulting in complications. Studies show high rates of iron deficiency and anemia among pregnant women in highland areas, especially in elderly or high-risk women. This study aims to understand the differences in behavior, eating, and drinking habits between adolescent girls in highland and lowland areas, and to explore how these habits relate to anemia, which can cause stunting. The study used a descriptive-analytic, cross-sectional design, with data from observations, interviews, questionnaires, and hemoglobin tests. Random sampling was used to gather data from 253 respondents, 105 from highland areas and 158 from lowland areas. SEM-PLS 4.0 was used to analyze the effects of tea and coffee consumption on hemoglobin levels. The results show that topography affects anemia rates in Indonesia, and that daily habits of eating vegetables, fruits, and drinking tea or coffee influence hemoglobin levels. Low hemoglobin levels in pregnant women increase the risk of stunting in newborns. The government can improve iron tablet distribution in highland areas by increasing health posts for adolescents.