dr. Linda Soebroto, Sp.P., a Pulmonology Specialist at UNS Hospital, moderated the session along with two expert speakers:

• Dr. Hendrastutik Apriningsih, dr., Sp.P (K), M.Kes., FISR, Pulmonology Consultant at UNS Hospital.
• dr. Berty Denny Hermawati, Sp.PD., FINASIM, Internal Medicine Specialist at UNS Hospital.

Both specialists provided in-depth insights into TB and DM, covering their causes, symptoms, and preventive measures.

Understanding Tuberculosis (TB)

Dr. Hendrastutik explained that Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis, a bacterial infection. The public commonly refers to this disease as ‘lung spots. While it primarily affects the lungs, it can also spread to other organs such as the bones, kidneys, and brain.

“Indonesia has the second-highest TB cases in the world after India. Public awareness is crucial to enable early detection and immediate treatment,” she emphasized.

She also clarified a common misconception. People do not inherit TB, instead, they contract it through droplets from coughing or sneezing. Vulnerable groups include children under five, whose immune systems are still developing, as well as the elderly over 60. Additionally, individuals with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, and HIV are more susceptible due to weakened immunity.

Diabetes Mellitus: Causes and Prevention

dr. Berty highlighted that diabetes mellitus, often called ‘kencing manis,’ is a metabolic disorder that causes high blood sugar levels. It occurs due to insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin function, or both.

“Unlike TB, diabetes is not contagious. However, genetics plays a significant role. Research indicates that close family members have a 30% chance of developing DM. Children of two diabetic parents face a 50% risk,” she explained.

Lifestyle choices greatly influence the risk of diabetes. Poor dietary habits combined with a lack of physical activity contribute significantly to its onset. To prevent diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. Some key recommendations include:

• Eating a balanced and nutritious diet.
• Exercising regularly.
• Maintaining proper hygiene and health routines.
• Managing comorbidities effectively through regular check-ups and medication adherence.

By adopting these habits, individuals can strengthen their immune systems and reduce the risk of both TB and diabetes mellitus.

This Healthy Dialogue session provided valuable insights into TB and DM. It encouraged the public to be more proactive about their health. People can effectively manage these diseases through early detection, proper treatment, and a healthier lifestyle. UNS Hospital remains committed to raising awareness and promoting better healthcare for the community.

Humas UNS
Reporter: Dikky Yudi Pradana
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

The post UNS Hospital Hosts “Healthy Dialogue” on Tuberculosis and Diabetes Mellitus appeared first on Universitas Sebelas Maret.

The team comprised four members: Muh. Anan Wais Lahay, S.Tr.Kes, as the team leader; Erlangga Yusa Bachtiar, S.K.M; Sari Tyaswikaning Aji, S.H.; and Miswanto, S.Tr.RMIK, all of whom are students from the UNS Postgraduate Public Health Science Program.

“PKM partnered with the PADIMAS Elderly Group under Jasmine 2 Primary Clinic, led by Mr. Joko Prabowo, S.Pd, and supported by Mrs. Sari Tyaswikaning Aji, S.H., the Head of Jasmine 2 Primary Clinic. The activities were funded personally and took place at Gleges Street Number 23, Priobadan, Sriwedari Village, Laweyan District, Surakarta City,” Muh. Anan Wais Lahay, S.Tr.Kes explained in an interview with uns.ac.id on Tuesday (24/12/2024).

Several activities have been carried out, including education on Diabetes Mellitus and the implementation and monitoring of physical activities in the form of diabetes exercise sessions conducted by the PADIMAS Elderly Group. This program was held over two sessions.

PADIMAS members were given the opportunity to learn various healthy lifestyle practices for individuals with Diabetes Mellitus. Following this, the UNS community service team organized a health exercise session specifically designed for diabetes patients, which was followed by blood sugar level checks after the exercise. The participants were very enthusiastic about this activity.

The first session began with participants completing a questionnaire before receiving educational materials and filling out another questionnaire afterward to assess their understanding of the provided information. The second session started with a blood sugar level check before the exercise, followed by another check after the session concluded.

During the educational activity, the UNS community service team introduced the definition of diabetes, its causes, and the symptoms it may present. Additionally, the session covered topics such as blood sugar level management, the importance of physical activity, the characteristics of healthy foods, adherence to medication schedules, and proper dietary patterns and portions for individuals with Diabetes Mellitus.

After delivering the educational materials, participants were rewarded with door prizes for correctly answering questions about the topics discussed, adding an interactive and motivational element to the session.

During the second activity, the UNS community service team and PADIMAS conducted a health exercise session, which began with a blood sugar level check before the exercise and concluded with another check afterward. This activity aimed to assess the impact of physical exercise on blood sugar levels in individuals with Diabetes Mellitus.

After collecting data on blood sugar levels and participants’ knowledge, the team conducted a detailed analysis. The results showed a significant impact of physical activity in reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, the analysis of the educational session revealed an improvement in participants’ knowledge following the Diabetes Mellitus education program.

Several PADIMAS members expressed that the program provided significant benefits and motivated PADIMAS elderly members to remain consistent in engaging in physical activities and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

This activity supports UNS in achieving two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) and Quality Education (SDG 4).

Humas UNS

The post UNS Postgraduate Public Health Science Program Partners with PADIMAS for Community Service Initiative appeared first on Universitas Sebelas Maret.