Correlations between Nutritional Status, Iron Intake, and Fine Motor Development in Infants Aged 6-11 Months

Abstract

Background: Undernutrition can inhibit growth and development. Specifically, in development, it can change the structure and function of the brain. Fine motor development in infants is affected by many factors such as undernutrition and iron intake. Undernutrition status can occur due to unfulfilled nutritional intake. Iron deficiency can negatively affect fine motor development in children. This study aimed to determine the correlation of nutritional status, iron intake, and fine motor development in infants aged 6-11 months. Subjects and Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at eight Community Health Centers in Kulon Progo Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A total of 201 infants aged 6-11 months were randomly selected as the sample of the study. The dependent variable was fine motor development. The independent variable was status (Weight/Age). The data on fine motor development were measured by a Prescreening Developmental Questionnaire (PDQ). The data were analyzed by Chi-square. Results: Good nutritional status increased fine motor development in infants aged 6-11 months (OR= 7.12; 95% CI= 3.03 to 16.73; p<0.001). There was no difference between iron intake and fine motor development (OR= 0.61; 95% CI= 0.20 to 1.83; p= 0.469). Conclusion: Good nutritional status increases fine motor development in infants age 6-11 months.