Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. It occurs due to impaired insulin production, either because the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. Diabetes can be caused and triggered by various factors, including genetics, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. If left unmanaged, it may lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disorders, nerve damage, and vision impairment. Therefore, early detection and proper management are essential to prevent further health deterioration. In Jember Regency, diabetes mellitus has shown a consistent increase in recent years, with approximately 38,947 reported cases in 2024, compared to around 38,018 cases in 2022. This trend indicates that diabetes has become a growing public health issue that requires serious attention and continuous prevention efforts from both healthcare providers and the community.
In response to this issue, SCOPH CIMSA UNEJ organized DRAGONBALL (Diabetes Risk Reduction Program by Application of Healthy Lifestyle), a community development initiative aimed at reducing the risk and prevalence of diabetes through education and health interventions in Jember Kidul, Kaliwates, Jember.
On Friday, 24 April, 2026, SCOPH CIMSA UNEJ conducted the first intervention in Jember Kidul. The activity included basic health screenings and community data collection. The DRAGONBALL 1 intervention consisted of blood sugar and blood pressure checks, as well as anthropometric measurements such as height and weight, conducted by the CIMSA UNEJ committee.
Participants who completed the screenings were then invited to attend an educational session on diabetes mellitus delivered by dr. Norma Rahayu Najikhah, Sp.Pd., Head of the Jember branch of PERSADIA (Indonesian Diabetes Association). Before the session, participants took a pre-test to assess their initial knowledge. The materials covered included the definition of diabetes, risk factors, possible complications, healthy dietary patterns, and lifestyle modifications to maintain normal blood sugar levels, along with explanations of normal blood glucose ranges. After the session, participants completed a post-test to evaluate their understanding. Additionally, a workshop on diabetic wound care was conducted to provide practical knowledge on proper wound management and prevention of complications. This hands-on activity helped participants better understand how to apply the knowledge in their daily lives.
The activity was successfully implemented with enthusiastic participation from the community. Through integrated health screening, education, and practical training, participants gained a better understanding of diabetes prevention and management while increasing their awareness of the importance of adopting healthier lifestyles. Through DRAGONBALL, SCOPH CIMSA UNEJ remains committed to promoting community health and supporting sustainable diabetes prevention efforts.
