Healthy Tadulako Journal (Jurnal Kesehatan Tadulako)

The Relationship Between Diabetes and Hypertension and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients in Indonesia

Ade Yonata, Nurul Islamy — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global health problem that significantly increases morbidity and mortality, mainly due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). In Indonesia, cardiovascular complications account for approximately 42% of deaths among CKD patients. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between diabetes and hypertension with mortality in CKD patients in Indonesia. Objective: To investigate the association between diabetes and hypertension and mortality among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialysis in Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Regional Hospital, Lampung, from March to May 2024. The study population consisted of end-stage CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Data were obtained from medical records and analyzed using the Chi-Square test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Of 110 patients, 58% of those with diabetes and 55.1% of those with hypertension died. Both comorbidities showed a significant association with mortality in CKD patients (p = 0.0031 for diabetes, p = 0.019 for hypertension). Conclusion: Diabetes and hypertension significantly increase mortality risk among CKD patients. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive management of comorbidities to improve survival outcomes in CKD populations

The Relationship Between Maternal Knowledge and the Incidence of Hypertension in Pregnancy at Bhakti Medicare Hospital, Sukabumi

Dian Fitria Octafiana, Dhinny Novryanthi, Ria Andriani — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hypertension in pregnancy is a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, contributing to 14% of global maternal deaths. In Indonesia, it is the second leading cause of maternal mortality. Knowledge is an important determinant of health behavior, yet its link to pregnancy-induced hypertension remains underexplored in Sukabumi. Objective: To analyze the relationship between pregnant women’s knowledge and the incidence of hypertension in pregnancy. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with 44 pregnant women diagnosed with hypertension in the Amarylis Room, Bhakti Medicare Hospital, Sukabumi (November–December 2024). Data were collected using a validated 15-item questionnaire. Knowledge level (good, sufficient, poor) and hypertension severity (mild, severe) were analyzed with the chi-square test (p < 0.05). Results: Most respondents had poor knowledge (45.5%) and severe hypertension (52.3%). Chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between knowledge and hypertension incidence (p = 0.002). Severe hypertension was more frequent among women with poor knowledge (36.4%) compared to those with good knowledge (2.3%). Conclusion: Maternal knowledge significantly influences the incidence of hypertension in pregnancy. Educational interventions are urgently needed to reduce risks and improve maternal health outcomes.

Factors Associated with Caregiver Burden in Children With Cerebral Palsy in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review

Kadek Dwi Wira Sanjaya, I Ketut Gede Agus Budi Wirawan — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition requiring long-term care, leading to a high burden on caregivers, particularly in developing countries where access to cerebral palsy care remains inadequate. Objective: This study aims to identify factors influencing the burden on caregivers of children with cerebral palsy in developing countries. Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA was conducted. From inception to August 2024, 173 records were retrieved from PubMed and ScienceDirect. Studies were screened against predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria, and study and evidence quality were appraised. Results: A total of 10 articles were included. Depression, fatigue levels, and quality of life were identified as moderate-quality evidence for caregiver-related factors contributing to caregiver burden. GMFCS levels and spastic type were also identified as moderate-quality evidence for patient-related factors contributing to caregiver burden. Several factors with 'moderate' evidence quality include caregiver depression, fatigue levels, caregiver quality of life, GMFCS levels of cerebral palsy, and spastic type. Conclusion: Understanding these factors can guide the implementation of interventions to reduce caregiver burden, potentially improving caregivers' quality of life and positively impacting the care and therapy of patients with cerebral palsy.

The Relationship Between the Role of Nurses as Educators and the Level of Adherence to Taking Medication in Diabetes Mellitus Patients at RSUD Dr. Moewardi Surakarta

Aurrell Adna Kusuma, Okti Sri Purwanti — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease caused by impaired insulin production or utilization, leading to serious complications if not properly managed. Non-compliance with medication remains a major challenge, contributing to poor outcomes and increased mortality. Nurses play a pivotal role as educators in improving patient adherence. Objective: To examine the relationship between the role of nurses as educators and medication compliance among DM patients. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 129 DM patients at the Endocrinology Polyclinic of Dr. Moewardi Regional Hospital, Surakarta, from November to December 2024. Data on nurses’ educational roles and patients’ medication compliance were collected using structured questionnaires, including the validated Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). The Spearman Rank test was used for analysis. Results: The analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between the role of nurses as educators and medication compliance (p = 0.001; Rho = 0.634). Although most respondents (97.7%) rated the nurses’ role as “good,” more than half (54.2%) still demonstrated moderate to poor compliance. Conclusion: Nurses’ educational role has a strong positive impact on medication compliance in DM patients. Strengthening and sustaining educational strategies are essential to improve adherence and health outcomes

The Relationship Between Compliance With Iron Supplement (TTD) Consumption and the Incidence of Anemia Among Adolescent Girls at SMPN 16 Sukabumi City

Reza Gustiana Rahayu, Ria Andriani, Dhinny Novryanthi — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Adherence to blood-boosting tablet consumption among adolescent girls is vital for preventing anemia and maintaining optimal hemoglobin levels to support overall health. Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between adherence to blood-boosting tablet consumption and anemia incidence among adolescent girls. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 36 randomly selected grade VII students at SMPN 16 Sukabumi City, using the MMAS-8 questionnaire for adherence and the Homovue tool for hemoglobin measurement, analyzed with the Kendall tau test. Results: The findings revealed a significant relationship between adherence and anemia incidence, with a p-value of 0.002 (<0.05). Students with low adherence showed a higher prevalence of anemia, while those with moderate to high adherence maintained normal hemoglobin levels. The results also indicated that knowledge, motivation, and family support influenced adherence behavior. These findings confirm that consistent consumption of blood-boosting tablets effectively reduces anemia risk among adolescents. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between adherence to blood-boosting tablet intake and anemia prevention, highlighting the importance of continuous education, motivation, and parental involvement to improve adolescent health outcomes.

Comparison Of Reduction In Blood Pressure Between Sublingual and Oral Captopril

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hypertensive crisis poses a high risk for long-term cardiovascular complications, and management focuses on controlled blood pressure (BP) reduction rather than immediate normalization. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of sublingual and oral captopril in reducing BP among patients with hypertensive urgency. Methods: A literature review was conducted using English-language studies published after 2012 that evaluated BP reduction outcomes of sublingual versus oral captopril. Results: Three relevant studies met the inclusion criteria, comparing both administration routes in hypertensive urgency management. All studies demonstrated that sublingual and oral captopril were similarly effective in lowering systolic and diastolic BP within the first few hours after administration. Sublingual captopril consistently produced a faster onset of action, with BP reduction observed within 15–30 minutes, whereas oral administration required 30–60 minutes to achieve comparable effects. None of the studies reported significant differences in adverse effects between the two routes. These findings suggest that while overall efficacy is comparable, the sublingual route provides more rapid BP control, which may be crucial in acute care settings. Conclusion: Both sublingual and oral captopril are effective options for hypertensive urgency, with the sublingual form offering a faster therapeutic response suitable for rapid BP reduction in emergency situations.

The Relationship Between Personal Hygiene Knowledge and the Incidence of Pediculosis capitis Among Female Students at the Islamic Boarding School X in Pati

Avisa Silviana Adi Astuti, Rezania Asyfiradayati — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Personal hygiene merupakan faktor penting dalam mencegah penyebaran infeksi, termasuk Pediculosis capitis. Kurangnya kebersihan diri dapat meningkatkan risiko infestasi kutu rambut, yang umum terjadi di lingkungan pesantren dengan interaksi sosial tinggi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan antara pengetahuan Personal hygiene dengan kejadian Pediculosis capitis pada Santriwati di Pondok Pesantren X. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode survei analitik kuantitatif dengan desain cross-sectional. Data dikumpulkan melalui kuesioner dari 84 santriwati yang dipilih dengan teknik total sampling. Analisis bivariat dilakukan menggunakan uji chi-square dengan tingkat signifikansi 0,05. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 63,1% santriwati mengalami Pediculosis capitis dalam satu tahun terakhir, dan 53,6% memiliki tingkat pengetahuan Personal hygiene yang kurang baik. Analisis statistik menunjukkan adanya hubungan signifikan antara pengetahuan Personal hygiene dengan kejadian Pediculosis capitis (p-value = 0,001). Kurangnya pengetahuan Personal hygiene berkorelasi dengan tingginya kejadian Pediculosis capitis pada santriwati Pondok Pesantren X. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan upaya edukasi dan peningkatan kesadaran tentang pentingnya menjaga kebersihan diri guna mencegah infeksi Pediculosis capitis. Hal yang mempengaruhi kejadian Pediculosis capitis di Pondok Pesantren X adalah yaitu karena santriwati tidur bersama dengan orang yang menderita Pediculosis capitis.

Application of Verbal De-Escalation and Assertive Training on Anger Control in Schizophrenia Patients with Violent Behavior

Sri Wulandari, Laili Nur Hidayati, Titik Sri Purwanti — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Violent behavior is a harmful action directed toward oneself or others, commonly observed in patients with schizophrenia, and requires structured behavioral management such as de-escalation and assertiveness training. Objective: This case study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of de-escalation and assertiveness training in improving anger control among schizophrenia patients exhibiting violent behavior. Methods: A case study was conducted over four days one day in the Intensive Ward and three days in the Maintenance Ward on a male paranoid schizophrenia patient (Mr. J) using psychiatric nursing care guidelines from Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta and the PANSS-EC (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Excited Component). The intervention incorporated the KSS (frequent but brief contact) and BHSP (building a helping and supportive relationship) approaches. Results: After four days of intervention, the patient demonstrated improved emotional regulation, reduced irritability, and increased ability to communicate assertively. The PANSS-EC score decreased from 22 to 18, indicating a clinically meaningful reduction in the severity of violent behavior symptoms. The patient also showed greater self-awareness and cooperation during therapy sessions, suggesting enhanced anger control and self-regulation. Conclusion: De-escalation and assertiveness training are effective nursing interventions for reducing violent behavior and improving anger management in schizophrenia patients.

History of Activeness in Organizations and Therapeutic Communication Skills in Nursing Profession Students at the Faculty of Nursing, Jember University

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Organizational involvement plays an important role in enhancing nursing students’ therapeutic communication, a critical competency for future healthcare professionals. Objective: To determine the relationship between organizational activeness and therapeutic communication skills among nursing profession students. Methods: This correlational descriptive-analytical study used a quantitative cross-sectional design involving 171 nursing profession students selected through total sampling. Results: Most students demonstrated a moderate level of organizational activeness (56.1%) and moderate therapeutic communication skills (55.6%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between organizational activeness and therapeutic communication skills (r = 0.521; p < 0.05), indicating that greater participation in organizational activities was associated with better communication performance. Students who were more active in organizations tended to exhibit higher confidence, empathy, and interpersonal awareness during clinical interactions. These findings suggest that active engagement in organizational activities provides opportunities for teamwork, leadership, and communication practice, which are transferable to professional therapeutic communication settings. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between organizational activeness and therapeutic communication skills, emphasizing that participation in student organizations can enhance professional communication competencies essential for nursing practice.

Effectiveness of Health Promotion Strategies on Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Prevention and Control: A Literature Review

Ika Martiningsih, Heni Trisnowati, Sulistyawati Sulistyawati — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a mosquito-borne infectious disease whose prevention and control depend largely on effective health promotion to influence community behavior. Objective: This study aims to review the effectiveness of health promotion strategies in improving public literacy for DHF prevention and control. Methods: A literature review was conducted by analyzing five relevant articles published between 2020–2024 from Google Scholar, PubMed, Research Gate, and GARUDA databases. The selected articles were descriptively analyzed to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of health promotion strategies. Results: The review shows that health promotion strategies integrating advocacy, social support, and community empowerment are effective in reducing the incidence of DHF when implemented through coordinated cross-sector collaboration. Active community participation strengthens behavioral change and program sustainability. Nevertheless, several barriers persist, including limited political commitment, inadequate monitoring systems, and insufficient resources, which reduce the effectiveness of these strategies. The findings emphasize that health promotion must be adaptive, participatory, and supported by clear policy frameworks to maximize impact. Conclusion: Strengthening collaboration across sectors, ensuring adequate resources, and tailoring health promotion to local community needs are essential to achieving sustainable and effective dengue prevention and control in Indonesia.

Post Mastectomy Pain Syndrome (PMPS) Incident Profile at Ibnu Sina Hospital Makassar in May–August 2024

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome (PMPS) is a chronic neuropathic pain lasting over three months after mastectomy, often affecting the chest, axilla, or arm, yet data on its prevalence in Eastern Indonesia remain scarce. Objective: To describe the characteristics and impact of PMPS among post-mastectomy patients at Ibnu Sina Hospital. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted involving 30 post-mastectomy patients diagnosed with PMPS, using univariate analysis with SPSS 25.0 to assess pain characteristics and quality-of-life effects, with neuropathic pain defined as a score >/ 4 on the Neuropathic Pain Scale. Results: The majority of patients (76.7%) experienced chronic pain localized mainly to the anterior chest and axilla, often radiating to the upper arm. About 70.0% reported significant interference with daily activities, sleep disturbance, and psychological distress, while 60.0% experienced pain exacerbation during shoulder movement. Neuropathic characteristics such as burning and tingling sensations were frequently reported, with moderate to severe pain intensity noted in over half of the participants. These findings indicate that PMPS substantially compromises patients’ physical function and emotional well-being during postoperative recovery. Conclusion: PMPS prevalence is high and markedly affects quality of life, necessitating early screening and multidisciplinary pain management in post-mastectomy care.

Effect of Diabetes Exercise on Reduction of Blood Glucose Levels in Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Intan Sari — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The rising prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Indonesia from 10.9% in 2018 to 11.7% in 2023, positioning the country fifth globally with 19.47 million cases highlights an urgent public health concern requiring effective management strategies. Objective: To determine the effect of diabetes exercise on blood glucose levels (BGLs) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This pre-experimental study used a one-group pretest-posttest design involving 18 respondents who performed diabetes exercise three times per week for four weeks, each session lasting 30 minutes. Results: Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, the Shapiro-Wilk test, and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Normality tests showed significance values of 0.521 (pre-test) and 0.946 (post-test), indicating normally distributed data. The Wilcoxon test yielded a p-value of 0.001 (<0.05) with a large effect size (0.68), demonstrating a significant reduction in BGLs after the intervention. Mean BGLs decreased substantially from pre- to post-exercise, suggesting improved glycemic control. These findings confirm that regular diabetes exercise enhances insulin sensitivity and promotes better glucose utilization through increased muscle activity. Conclusion: Diabetes exercise significantly reduces blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and should be recommended as a complementary, non-pharmacological therapy for optimal glycemic management.

The Relationship Between Dietary Patterns, Physical Activity, and Stress Levels with the Incidence of Hypertension among Adults of Productive Age

Danuartha Vandika, Arina Maliya — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hypertension is a major public health concern among productive-age individuals, influenced not only by genetic factors but also by modifiable lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and stress. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between diet, physical activity, and stress levels with the incidence of hypertension among individuals in the productive age group. Methods: A quantitative research design with a Cross-Sectional approach was employed using purposive sampling involving 112 hypertensive respondents of productive age, and data were analyzed using the Spearman-Rho correlation test. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between dietary patterns and hypertension incidence (p = 0.001). More than half of the respondents engaged in light physical activity, and a positive correlation was observed between physical activity and hypertension (p = 0.001). Additionally, stress levels were significantly correlated with hypertension incidence (p = 0.001). These results indicate that poor dietary adherence, low physical activity, and high stress levels contribute to the increasing prevalence of hypertension among productive-age adults. Conclusion: Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress effectively are crucial strategies to prevent hypertension and promote cardiovascular health in the productive age population.

The Role of Self-Efficacy in Treatment Adherence and Quality of Life Improvement in Hypertensive Patients

Aulia Kusuma Dewi, Arina Maliya — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hypertension is a global health problem that affects quality of life, morbidity, and mortality, with low self-efficacy and poor medication adherence being major barriers to effective management. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between self-efficacy, medication adherence, and quality of life among hypertensive patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Kartasura Health Center from June to November 2024 involving 128 purposively selected respondents. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using statistical tests to determine variable relationships. Results: Most respondents demonstrated low self-efficacy, poor medication adherence, and low quality of life; the majority were females aged 56–65 years with junior high school education. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between self-efficacy and treatment adherence (p < 0.001), as well as between self-efficacy and quality of life (p = 0.002). Furthermore, patients with higher self-efficacy scores exhibited 1.8 times greater adherence and 1.6 times higher quality of life scores compared to those with lower self-efficacy. Conclusion: Self-efficacy plays a pivotal role in enhancing medication adherence and quality of life among hypertensive patients; thus, interventions aimed at strengthening self-efficacy should be prioritized in hypertension management programs.

Characteristics and Acceptability of a Modified High-Energy, High-Protein Enteral Formula Based on Local Foods

Desvianti Desvianti, Yulianto Yulianto, Nurul Salasa Nilawati — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Enteral formula is a liquid nutritional preparation administered orally or via tube to patients with a functioning digestive system, and high-energy high-protein (HEHP) diets are essential for patients requiring enhanced nutritional intake. Objective: To determine the optimal formulation of HEHP enteral formula based on purple sweet potato flour, tempeh flour, and chicken egg flour in terms of macronutrient composition, viscosity, microbiological quality, acceptability, and food cost. Methods: This experimental study used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three formulations tested on 30 panelists for organoleptic evaluation. Results: The organoleptic test results (color, aroma, taste, and texture) indicated that Formula 1 (F1) was the most preferred. F1 contained 124.49 kcal energy, 6.75% protein, 7.25% fat, and 8.06% carbohydrates per 100 grams, with a viscosity of 34.0 mPa.s and a Total Plate Count of 1.0 × 10 colonies/ml, meeting the acceptable microbiological standards for enteral nutrition. Among all formulations, F1 demonstrated optimal sensory quality, nutritional balance, and production cost efficiency, making it the most suitable candidate for HEHP dietary use. Conclusion: The HEHP enteral formula made from purple sweet potato, tempeh, and chicken egg flour is a feasible and acceptable alternative for conscious patients requiring oral HEHP nutritional support.

Characteristics of Risk Factors for Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media at Ibnu Sina Hospital, Makassar City in 2022-2023

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) is a persistent middle ear infection that significantly contributes to global hearing loss and reduced quality of life, yet recent epidemiological data from major Indonesian cities such as Makassar remain scarce. Objective: To identify risk factor characteristics, including age, gender, and CSOM type (benign or malignant), among patients diagnosed at Ibnu Sina Hospital, Makassar, from 2022 to 2023. Methods: A quantitative descriptive study with a retrospective design was conducted using total sampling of 31 patient medical records meeting inclusion criteria, and data were analyzed univariately to present frequency distributions and percentages. Results: The 17–25-year age group had the highest CSOM prevalence (35.48%), followed by the 0–5-year group (16.13%). Female patients accounted for 51.61%, showing a nearly equal gender distribution. The majority of cases were benign CSOM (96.77%), with only 3.23% classified as malignant. These findings indicate that young adults represent the most affected demographic, likely due to environmental exposure and untreated upper respiratory infections, while malignant CSOM remains rare. Conclusion: Age is the primary risk factor for CSOM in this population, with young adults being the most vulnerable, underscoring the importance of targeted preventive measures and early ear health education.

The Relationship Between Smoking and Blood Glucose Levels in Active Smoking Fishermen in Banggae Sub-District, Majene District

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Smoking is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, and fishermen may have specific smoking habits that influence blood glucose levels. Objective: To analyze the relationship between smoking activity and random blood glucose levels among active fishermen in Banggae Sub-District, Majene District. Methods: This quantitative analytical study with a cross-sectional design involved 100 active fishermen selected using the Slovin formula, with data analyzed using Spearman correlation in SPSS. Results: Most respondents were young (45%) and middle-aged adults (46%), and 94% smoked filter cigarettes. A significant positive correlation was found between smoking activity and random blood glucose levels (r = 0.295, p = 0.003), indicating that higher smoking frequency and dependency were associated with elevated glucose levels. Conversely, no significant relationship was observed between dietary patterns and glucose levels (r = -0.081, p = 0.422). These findings suggest that smoking intensity, rather than food type, plays a more dominant role in glucose dysregulation among fishermen. Conclusion: Increased smoking activity is significantly correlated with higher random blood glucose levels, emphasizing the urgent need for smoking cessation interventions to reduce diabetes risk in this high-risk occupational group.

Understanding Psychiatric Dimensions Related to Mental Health in Children with Special Needs: A Literature Review

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Children with special needs are children who possess different traits and characteristics, and they certainly require comprehensive support and care, especially in emotional aspects. Objective: The study aims to analyze the needs and services required for children with special needs to support their emotional, mental, and physical development, as well as evaluate the effectiveness of the provided support in improving their quality of life and social integration. Methods: This research uses a literature review method based on primary findings regarding children with special needs. The analysis technique used is qualitative synthesis, which combines findings from various sources to provide a deeper understanding of the topic. Results: The research shows that children with special needs have complex characteristics, categorized into specific groups as described by professionals. Some children with special needs require specialized services and attention, such as therapy with counseling, educational services, medical facilities, and family support. Conclusion: The well-being of children with special needs is influenced by several aspects of life, including healthcare services, educational and counseling services, social aspects of the community, family support, and religious aspects. Thus, the mental health dimension of children with special needs will be achieved when these aspects are adequately fulfilled.

Personal Hygiene and Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection Among School Children in Karuwisi Health Centre Area, Makassar

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) infection remains a major public health concern among Indonesian school-aged children, largely influenced by personal hygiene behaviors. Objective: To analyze the relationship between personal hygiene practices and STH infection among elementary school children in the Karuwisi Health Centre area, Makassar. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study involved 50 children, using the Kato-Katz method for stool examination and a structured questionnaire to assess hygiene behaviors; data were analyzed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: The prevalence of STH infection was 24% (12/50), with all cases identified as Ascaris lumbricoides of light intensity. Poor handwashing behavior showed a strong association with STH infection (p < 0.001), and inadequate nail hygiene was also significantly related (p = 0.016). Conversely, the habit of not wearing footwear was not significantly associated with infection (p = 0.325). The findings indicate that transmission occurred primarily via the fecal-oral route rather than skin penetration. These results highlight that improving handwashing and nail hygiene behaviors can substantially reduce infection risk. Conclusion: Handwashing and nail cleanliness are key behavioral determinants of STH infection, emphasizing the need for school-based health education focusing on these preventive practices to mitigate STH transmission among children.

The Role of Physiotherapy In Physical Fitness To Measure Balance and Coordination

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Physical fitness reflects the body’s ability to perform activities efficiently, supported by optimal balance and coordination. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of physiotherapy balance board exercises on improving balance and coordination among students at Dhyana Pura University. Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design was applied using purposive sampling with 20 participants meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Balance and coordination were assessed using the Standing Stork Test and Hand Wall Toss Test, respectively, before and after 12 training sessions conducted over four weeks. Results: The findings showed a notable improvement in balance, with increases of 22.4% for the right leg and 21.6% for the left leg, alongside a 24.8% enhancement in coordination after the training intervention. Statistical analysis using the paired-sample t-test indicated a significant difference in both balance and coordination (p = 0.000, p < 0.005), confirming a normal distribution and meaningful post-training improvement. These results demonstrate that consistent physiotherapy-based balance board exercises effectively enhance neuromuscular control, stability, and coordination performance. Conclusion: Balance board exercises significantly improve both balance and coordination, highlighting their effectiveness as a physiotherapeutic intervention to enhance physical fitness among university students.