Makassar – The increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus has become a significant public health concern, particularly in urban communities such as Makassar. In response to this challenge, a community-based health education activity was conducted to enhance patients’ understanding and practical skills in managing their condition. This initiative emphasized a holistic approach by integrating self-care practices with active family support, recognizing that sustainable health outcomes require both individual commitment and a supportive environment.
The activity, held at Aula Puskesmas Batua, Kota Makassar, aimed to empower patients through structured education sessions, interactive discussions, and practical demonstrations. The core objective was to improve patients’ knowledge and ability in self-care management, thereby contributing to better glycemic control and preventing long-term complications. This aligns directly with the global commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) by reducing the economic burden of chronic disease complications, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through accessible health education, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, patients, and families.
The program was successfully attended by 79 participants, consisting of diabetes patients and their family members. It was conducted on 11 July 2024, bringing together healthcare professionals, academics, and community members in a collaborative learning environment. Throughout the sessions, participants were introduced to essential components of diabetes self-care, including dietary regulation, physical activity, stress management, foot care, and routine health monitoring. Importantly, the role of family support was highlighted as a critical factor in reinforcing adherence to these practices.
Using a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and question-and-answer sessions, the activity created an engaging and participatory atmosphere. Participants were encouraged to actively share their experiences and challenges, allowing facilitators to tailor explanations in a way that was both scientifically accurate and easily understood. This approach significantly improved participants’ comprehension and confidence in applying self-care strategies in their daily lives.
The outcomes of the activity demonstrated a noticeable improvement in participants’ knowledge levels, reflecting the effectiveness of community-based health education. Beyond knowledge enhancement, the program also fostered a sense of collective responsibility among families, emphasizing that diabetes management is not solely an individual effort but a shared commitment.
In conclusion, this initiative highlights the importance of integrated, community-centered interventions in addressing chronic health issues. By combining education, practical skills training, and family involvement, the program contributes to sustainable health improvements and supports the broader achievement of SDGs 1, 4, and 17. Continuous efforts of this nature are essential to build resilient communities capable of managing chronic diseases effectively and improving overall quality of life.
