Development of the “KARUNI” (young adolescents community) model to prevent stunting: a phenomenological study on adolescents in Gunungkidul regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Stunting is a major health problem in developing countries due to chronic malnutrition that impacts physical growth, cognitive ability, and long-term productivity. The focus of stunting prevention is generally aimed at pregnant women and toddlers, while adolescents, especially adolescent girls, are often neglected. In fact, they will be the future mothers who determine the quality of the next generation. Malnutrition and anemia in adolescents increase the risk of giving birth to stunted children. Innovative nutritional intervention programs, such as nutrition education and iron supplements, are needed to break the cycle of stunting, involving adolescents as important targets in prevention. Karuni is a program specifically designed for teenagers aged 12–15 years with the main focus being on empowering teenagers through nutrition education, reproductive health and clean and healthy living behavior as well as involving parents to optimize the program.