Senyum Hipertensi : Program Edukasi dan Aktivitas Fisik untuk Pengendalian Tekanan Darah di Komunitas

Abstract

Hypertension is one of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in the community and is often undetected due to its asymptomatic nature, earning it the nickname “silent killer.” Health mapping conducted in RW 08, Bangetayu Wetan Subdistrict, revealed a high number of residents with elevated blood pressure and limited knowledge regarding hypertension prevention and management. This community engagement program aimed to improve public knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to hypertension control through an integrated intervention of health education and physical activity. The activities included health education sessions, distribution of educational leaflets, medical screenings (blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, and uric acid), and routine hypertension exercise sessions. The target population consisted of adults and the elderly. Evaluation was conducted using pre- and post-intervention measurements of knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and blood pressure. The results showed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge (from 15.38% to 58.24%), positive attitudes (from 12.09% to 56.04%), and healthy behaviors (from 15.38% to 59.34%). The average blood pressure also decreased from 160.6/98.5 mmHg to 148.9/88.5 mmHg. In conclusion, the “SENYUM HIPERTENSI” program was proven effective as a promotive and preventive model for improving health literacy and blood pressure control at the community level. Similar interventions are recommended for replication in other areas with a high prevalence of hypertension.