SKRINING DAN EDUKASI PENCEGAHAN HIPERTENSI PADA MASYARAKAT PESISIR KAMPUNG SALO, KOTA KENDARI

Abstract

Hypertension is a condition characterized by elevated systolic blood pressure above 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure above 90 mmHg. Persistent high blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, and others. It can also increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure. Nearly 95% of hypertension cases are influenced by environmental risk factors and genetic predisposition. The prevalence of hypertension in Indonesia is quite high, warranting special attention and management. The Asian Medical Student's Association (AMSA) Unit of Halu Oleo University conducted the "Berjuang untuk Solidaritas, Peduli Hipertensi" event as part of the AMSA-UHO 2023 program. The objective was to raise awareness about nutrition management and dietary therapy for hypertension patients through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and health screenings.  The event showed an improvement in knowledge among the participants. A pre-test was conducted with a questionnaire consisting of 10 questions, involving 35 individuals. The results indicated that prior to the event, 17% had good knowledge, 25% had moderate knowledge, and 58% had poor knowledge about hypertension. After the educational activities and knowledge demonstrations, 83% had good knowledge and 16% had moderate knowledge. Furthermore, out of the 35 participants, 20 were found to have hypertension, 5 had prediabetes, and 7 had hyperuricemia. The coastal community of Kampung Salo in Kendari City demonstrated a relatively good level of knowledge regarding nutrition management to prevent the occurrence of non-communicable diseases, particularly hypertension. Additionally, they actively participated in health screenings for early detection of hypertension and other related conditions. It is hoped that the community of Kampung Salo will continue to actively engage in early prevention efforts, both at an individual and community level.