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Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, particularly among older adults. Integrated Development Posts for Non-Communicable Diseases (Pos Pembinaan Terpadu Penyakit Tidak Menular / Posbindu PTM) play a crucial role in the early detection of NCD risk factors at the community level. This activity aimed to conduct NCD risk factor screening through the measurement of blood pressure, random blood glucose, total cholesterol, and uric acid levels, as well as to provide health consultations for participants of Posbindu Rosella, South Kembangan. The activity was conducted in November 2025 using a descriptive design. A total of 30 Posbindu participants were involved. Health examinations included blood pressure, random blood glucose, total cholesterol, and uric acid measurements. Data were analyzed descriptively and classified into normal and abnormal categories based on clinical guidelines. The majority of participants were female (80%), with a mean age of 60.5 ± 9.7 years. The mean systolic blood pressure was within the hypertensive range. Approximately 50% of participants had impaired glucose regulation, 60% experienced hyperuricemia, and 40% had total cholesterol levels classified as borderline or higher.  Health screening activities at Posbindu revealed a high prevalence of NCD risk factors among participants. Posbindu plays an essential role in early detection and community-based prevention of non-communicable diseases.

Hypertension is a major global health risk that requires accurate early detection, yet conventional methods struggle with complex and imbalanced health datasets. This study aims to optimize hypertension prediction using a Logistic Regression model integrated with Borderline-SMOTE to enhance recall and provide model transparency through SHAP (Shapley Additive Explanations). The method utilizes the BRFSS dataset, applying Borderline-SMOTE to address class imbalance at the decision boundary and XAI techniques for global and local interpretation. The findings show that the model achieved an accuracy of 0.719, an AUC of 0.800, and a significantly improved recall of 0.756. SHAP analysis identified age, high cholesterol, and BMI as the most influential risk factors, while waterfall plots successfully clarified individual risk extremes, ranging from 1.72% to 99.43% probability. These results imply that the proposed approach provides a sensitive and transparent screening tool for public health practitioners, effectively balancing statistical efficiency with clinical accountability.

The puring plant (Codiaeum variegatum), which has been known as an ornamental plant, apparently has significant therapeutic potential, supported by the presence of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins and alkaloids. Various modern studies report the biological activity of croton leaves, including anti-cholesterol, anti-hyperglycemia, antibacterial effects, and their use in biosurfactant formulations. However, studies on how varying extract concentrations influence bioactivity parameters quantitatively are still limited, especially in the context of dose-response relationships involving many biological parameters in one series of research. Therefore, this research was conducted to evaluate eight bioactivity parameters, namely PSM, SSSP, DSSP, SL, RO, SM, PSL, and ANA at croton leaf extract concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 4%. This research uses a laboratory experimental approach by extracting croton leaves through a maceration method using ethanol, then formulated in three concentration levels. Each parameter was analyzed quantitatively to observe the pattern of changes in biological response to variations in the dose administered. The results showed that most of the PSM, SSSP, DSSP, SL, and PSL parameters showed an optimum response at a concentration of 2%, which indicates that there is a most effective dose point before a decrease in activity occurs at the highest concentration. In contrast, several parameters such as RO, SM, and ANA showed a more fluctuating response, even the ANA parameter gave the highest value at a concentration of 4%, indicating that certain activities require higher compound levels to be achieved. In general, the response pattern found was not linear, but instead formed an optimum curve typical of the bioactivity of plant extracts. These findings confirm that determining dosage is very important in the use of croton leaf extract, both for pharmacological purposes and for the formulation of natural ingredient-based products.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypercholesterolemia, hyperuricemia, and hyperglycemia are common health problems among adults and can develop into cardiovascular diseases and diabetes if not detected early. This community service activity was carried out to provide education on risk factors, prevention, and control of cholesterol, uric acid, and blood glucose levels among parents of students at RA Avicenna in Sorong City, as well as to conduct examinations of these three parameters as an early detection effort. The methods used included interactive counseling using presentation media, question-and-answer discussions, and health checks using point-of-care testing (POCT) devices. A total of 23 respondents participated, ranging in age from 22 to 55 years. The results showed that 22 individuals had normal blood glucose levels and 1 individual had high glucose levels. Nine people had normal cholesterol levels, eight were in the borderline category, and six had high cholesterol levels. Five participants had normal uric acid levels, while 18 had elevated uric acid levels, for which additional education and recommendations for further medical examination were provided. In conclusion, educational activities combined with health screening proved effective in increasing community awareness and motivation to prevent NCDs early.

Background: Central Sulawesi has experienced a high frequency of natural disasters, with 111 recorded incidents in 2023 and 238 in 2022. The province was also designated as a high-risk disaster area in 2021. Blood pressure and cholesterol screenings are essential tools for diagnosing diseases, identifying risk factors, tracking disease progression, and assessing the effectiveness of treatments. Objective: This initiative aimed to provide free health screenings and offer basic food assistance to the community. Methods: The screenings were conducted in Wombo Village, Tanantovea District, Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi. Results: The community health screenings revealed that the majority of adults and elderly participants had normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, 5 individuals were found to have high blood pressure, while 20 participants exhibited normal levels. Additionally, 25 individuals had normal cholesterol levels. Conclusion: The screening results indicated that while most participants were in good health, a small percentage had elevated blood pressure, which warrants further attention. This initiative successfully provided free healthcare services and essential food support to the community.

Background: Central Sulawesi has experienced a high frequency of natural disasters, with 111 recorded incidents in 2023 and 238 in 2022. The province was also designated as a high-risk disaster area in 2021. Blood pressure and cholesterol screenings are essential tools for diagnosing diseases, identifying risk factors, tracking disease progression, and assessing the effectiveness of treatments. Objective: This initiative aimed to provide free health screenings and offer basic food assistance to the community. Methods: The screenings were conducted in Wombo Village, Tanantovea District, Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi. Results: The community health screenings revealed that the majority of adults and elderly participants had normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, 5 individuals were found to have high blood pressure, while 20 participants exhibited normal levels. Additionally, 25 individuals had normal cholesterol levels. Conclusion: The screening results indicated that while most participants were in good health, a small percentage had elevated blood pressure, which warrants further attention. This initiative successfully provided free healthcare services and essential food support to the community.

Total cholesterol measurement is essential for assessing cardiovascular risk, but consistency between laboratory instruments must be validated for reliable results. Architect C4000 and Alinity C1000 operate on enzymatic principles but differ in system design, reagents, and supporting technology. This study aimed to compare total cholesterol measurements between the two instruments using a non-parametric statistical approach (Mann-Whitney test). A comparative analytical design was conducted with 100 serum samples obtained via purposive sampling and divided for measurement with each device. Statistical analysis evaluated differences, and mean differences were calculated using the Hodges-Lehman method. Results showed mean cholesterol values of 182.98 mg/dL for Architect and 182.37 mg/dL for Alinity, with no significant difference (p=0.9942) and a median difference of 0.0 (95% CI: -9.0 to 9.0). Data distribution was nearly identical for both instruments in terms of mean and spread. Therefore, both methods demonstrate comparable validity in total cholesterol measurement, as they rely on similar principles and technologies, with reagents calibrated to the same standards.

Errors in the pre-analytical phase are a dominant factor causing inaccurate laboratory test results, including blood serum cholesterol analysis. Pre-examination specimen handling is crucial to ensure the quality of measurement results. This study aimed to compare serum cholesterol levels in blood frozen before centrifugation with those immediately centrifuged. The research method was analytical using a cross-sectional design. A total of 35 respondents were involved, consisting of laboratory staff, emergency room staff, pharmacists, and administration at Sinar Kasih GKST Tentena Hospital. Blood samples were obtained via venipuncture after participants had fasted for 10–12 hours. Each sample was then separated into two groups: those immediately centrifuged and those frozen 20–30 minutes before centrifugation. Data collection was carried out by examining serum cholesterol levels using an Erba Mannheim Chem-7 photometer. The results showed that the average cholesterol level in frozen samples was higher (161.4 mg/dL) compared to samples immediately centrifuged (140.45 mg/dL). The Mann-Whitney statistical test yielded a p-value of 0.006 (p<0.05), indicating a significant difference between the two treatments. This confirms that pre-analytical handling of blood specimens significantly impacts the validity of cholesterol test results. Therefore, careful attention to the pre-analytical stage is essential to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results.

Tempoyak is a traditional fermented paste made from durian in Indonesia, favored by the Malay ethnic group. While tempoyak holds a unique and significant place in Indonesia's rich culinary diversity, there is a notable gap in research about it compared to other fermented foods such as kimchi. More investigation is essential to grasp the microbial composition, interactions, and possible health advantages of tempoyak, which may offer benefits like boosting the immune system, reducing cholesterol levels, exhibiting probiotic qualities, preservation, and possessing antibacterial effects. Researchers could also discover vital insights regarding the history, cultural significance, production methods, microbiological issues, nutritional aspects, and future prospects of local foods like tempoyak. This research intends to examine and study tempoyak as a traditional fermented food through comprehensive literature review and data from earlier investigations. Tempoyak has a strong connection to Malay cultural identity, regardless of its production location. As a key element of the daily practices of the Malay people in Indonesia, tempoyak is typically featured at cultural events, weddings, or large gatherings. This cultural importance sets Indonesian tempoyak apart from its Malaysian counterpart. The process of making tempoyak involves mashing the durian flesh, mixing in salt, and letting the combined mixture ferment in a sealed container at room temperature for 4 to 7 days. The microbial population in tempoyak can differ but mainly includes Lactobacillus species, particularly Lactobacillus plantarum. Proximate analysis is an effective approach to evaluate the nutritional makeup of tempoyak. Differences in nutrient levels may arise from the various types of durian, salt elements, sterilization periods, temperatures, and length of fermentation. Potential research opportunities could explore tempoyak’s role in fostering sustainable food practices, additional health benefits from its consumption, and the development of innovative products based on tempoyak. The aim of this study will enhance the field and aid in safeguarding and promoting the culinary heritage of the Malay community.

Red beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are a type of legumes (Leguminaceae) that have a high content of starch and fiber. The high fiber content causes red beans to prevent coronary heart disease. Red beans also have a low glycemic index so they can lower cholesterol levels in the blood and the risk of diabetes. Red beans also contain phenolic compounds that act as antioxidants in the body. Red beans are classified as food ingredients that can support the increase in nutritional value because they are classified as a relatively affordable source of vegetable protein. The purpose of this counseling is to provide knowledge and processed skills from local commodities, in this case red beans, to students majoring in Agribusiness of Agricultural Products at SMK Negeri 1 Bawen. This activity was attended by 68 students majoring in Agribusiness and Agricultural Products and 1 assistant teacher from SMK Negeri 1 Bawen, Semarang Regency. The method of this red bean processing extension activity is to increase the knowledge and skills of making processed local food products with several methods: a. The lecture method provides the theory and practice of making kidney bean cookies. b. Practice method of making red bean cut ice. c. The question and answer method, used to provide feedback to participants about the material that has been presented during the activity. d. Evaluation is given by providing pre test and post test. After the implementation, it showed that the target, namely students of SMK Negeri 1 Bawen, increased their knowledge and understood the importance of post-harvest handling and processing of red beans with the practice of making red bean cut ice. This is based on questions and answers, interviews and questionnaires shared before and after the activity. From the results of the questionnaire conducted before and after the activity, it showed that: After the implementation, there was a 50.17% increase in knowledge about kidney bean processing, Knowledge about making kidney beans into cut ice increased by 65.32% and Knowledge of other processed kidney beans such as kidney bean cookies showed that there was an increase of 67.15% after counseling. The conclusions that can be drawn from this counseling activity are (1) Processed red bean extension activities can increase the knowledge and understanding of the participants (2) The responses given by the counseling participants show a fairly satisfactory interest and there is a desire to apply the newly acquired knowledge to be socialized in the surrounding environment.

Various recent studies have shown that natural active compounds contained in traditional and fermented plants play a crucial role in supporting human health. These compounds include flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, organic acids, probiotics, and other phenolic compounds. Detection of these compounds is usually carried out through specific chemical reactions that allow researchers to more precisely identify the bioactive components. Their biological activities are diverse, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which work to protect the body from cell damage and infection. Natural compounds are considered promising agents for disease prevention and health promotion due to their broad biological activities. The fermentation process has been shown to increase the content of bioactive compounds while lowering the pH of the medium, creating conditions unfavorable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, probiotics that develop during fermentation play a role in maintaining the balance of the gut microbiota, strengthening the immune system, and improving digestive health. Fermented products are widely recognized as functional foods because they contain beneficial probiotics and enhanced bioactive compounds. These naturally derived products, rich in secondary metabolites, have also been shown to have significant physiological effects, such as lowering cholesterol levels, controlling blood sugar, and maintaining stable blood pressure. This makes natural ingredients and fermented products not only sources of nutrition but also have great potential for development as functional foods and traditional herbal medicines. This highlights the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches in developing functional foods and herbal medicines. Therefore, research on natural bioactive compounds and the role of fermentation in enhancing their effectiveness is highly relevant to supporting sustainable public health.  

Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) accompanied by decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This condition is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and stroke. One plant with potential as an antidyslipidemic agent is bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum). These leaves are known to contain active compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and polyphenols that have antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities. The potential of natural compounds from medicinal plants to reduce blood cholesterol levels has gained significant attention in recent years. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of microencapsulated ethanol extract of bay leaves in reducing total cholesterol levels in white rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by a high-cholesterol diet. The experimental study design employed was a laboratory-based true experimental method with a post-test control group design. A total of 25 male rats were used and divided into six groups: normal control, negative control (high cholesterol diet without therapy), positive control (simvastatin), and three groups treated with bay leaf extract microencapsulates at doses of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75%. The treatment was given for 14 days, then total cholesterol levels were measured using an enzymatic method. The results showed that the group with a dose of 0.75% experienced the highest decrease in total cholesterol levels, namely -70 mg/dL, greater than the simvastatin group (-49 mg/dL). Statistical analysis using One Way ANOVA showed a significant difference compared to the negative control (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that the 0.75% dose of microencapsulated Syzygium polyanthum extract demonstrated an effect equal to or greater than simvastatin. Thus, it can be concluded that bay leaf ethanol extract microencapsulates are effective in reducing total cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic rats. This suggests that Syzygium polyanthum microencapsulation has the potential to be developed as an alternative phytotherapy for cholesterol reduction.

Elevated blood cholesterol levels are known to be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Hypercholesterolemia can trigger atherosclerosis, which in turn increases the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. One approach to managing cholesterol levels is through the use of natural ingredients with antihyperlipidemic activity. White turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria Rosc) is an herbal plant long used in traditional medicine and contains bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids and essential oils. These compounds are reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as potential as agents for lowering blood lipid levels. Herbal-based therapies are increasingly considered as safe alternatives to synthetic drugs in managing hyperlipidemia. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a microencapsulated preparation of white turmeric ethanol extract in reducing total cholesterol levels in male rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by a high-fat diet. The study was conducted experimentally using 25 rats divided into six treatment groups. The groups consisted of normal controls, negative controls, positive controls using simvastatin, and three treatment groups given white turmeric extract microcapsules at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The microencapsulation technique was applied to improve the stability and bioavailability of the turmeric extract. Cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment. The results showed that the treatment group with the 0.25% concentration produced the most significant cholesterol reduction, from 110 mg/dL to 59 mg/dL. These findings indicate that even at a relatively low concentration, microencapsulated turmeric extract can significantly reduce cholesterol levels in vivo. Therefore, it can be concluded that white turmeric extract in microcapsule form is effective in lowering total cholesterol levels, especially at the 0.25% dose. This suggests that Curcuma zedoaria microcapsules hold promise as a natural therapeutic option for managing hypercholesterolemia and reducing cardiovascular risk.  

Dyslipidemia is a health problem characterized by impaired fat metabolism in the body, characterized by changes in blood lipid levels, either increasing or decreasing. This condition is generally seen through increased levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, and decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This imbalance in the lipid profile, if persisted over the long term, has the potential to accelerate the formation of atherosclerotic plaque on artery walls, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of papaya leaf (Carica papaya L.) ethanol extract microcapsules in reducing cholesterol levels in white rats induced by a high-fat diet. The high-fat diet is formulated from a mixture of beef fat, eggs, and lard to increase cholesterol levels in a controlled manner. After the induction phase, the rats were divided into six treatment groups: a negative control group, a positive control group (simvastatin 0.36 mg), and three treatment groups with doses of papaya leaf ethanol extract microcapsules of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The treatment was given orally for 14 consecutive days. Total cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The results showed that administration of papaya leaf extract microcapsules significantly reduced cholesterol levels. The 0.50% dose provided the most optimal effect, with a reduction reaching 77 mg/dL, greater than the simvastatin group. However, increasing the dose to 0.75% did not show a significant additional reduction effect, indicating an optimal dose-response point. Therefore, the 0.50% concentration can be considered the most effective dose and has the potential to be developed as an alternative natural cholesterol-lowering therapy. These findings also strengthen the potential use of papaya leaves as a bioactive source to support efforts to prevent and control dyslipidemia.  

This Community Service Program is entitled "Health Education Services to Prevent Hypercholesterolemia in Students at the H. Nur Abdullah Al-Qur'an Memorization Islamic Boarding School." Hypercholesterolemia is a medical condition characterized by high blood cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. This disease can be prevented and managed with lifestyle changes and appropriate medication. The goal of this Community Service Program is to increase students' awareness and knowledge of hypercholesterolemia and provide education on effective prevention and management methods. This Community Service Program is conducted through health counseling, health checks, and education on healthy lifestyles. The target students in this study were students from the H. Nur Abdullah Al-Qur'an Memorization Islamic Boarding School. Prior to the counseling session, 50 students were given a pre-test questionnaire regarding their knowledge of hypercholesterolemia. After the counseling session, a post-test questionnaire on hypercholesterolemia was administered, which showed an increase in knowledge, as evidenced by the post-test results. Following the counseling and health examinations, the students targeted in this study, from the Nur Abdullah Al- Quran memorization Islamic boarding school, showed increased awareness and knowledge about hypercholesterolemia. Most participants also demonstrated healthier lifestyle changes, such as increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and engaging in regular physical activity. This Community Service Program (PKM) demonstrates that health education and counseling can increase the awareness and knowledge of hypercholesterolemia among the students targeted in this study, from the Nur Abdullah Al-Quran memorization Islamic boarding school. Therefore, the students targeted in this community service session, from the Nur Abdullah Al-Quran memorization Islamic boarding school, can effectively implement prev ention and management strategies to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Hypertension is a chronic clinical condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure above normal physiological limits and is a major global health concern due to its strong association with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. One important contributing factor to hypertension is hypercholesterolemia, or an abnormal increase in total cholesterol levels in the blood. Elevated cholesterol concentrations may accelerate arterial stiffness and increase vascular resistance, thereby worsening blood pressure regulation. This study aimed to describe the relationship between blood pressure status and total cholesterol levels among productive-age individuals diagnosed with hypertension. The study was conducted in July 2023 using a descriptive design. A total of 30 hypertensive respondents within the productive age range were selected through accidental sampling. Data collection involved direct measurement of blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer and assessment of total cholesterol levels through standard clinical procedures. The results showed that the majority of respondents were categorized as having Stage 1 hypertension. With regard to cholesterol profiles, 16 respondents (53%) exhibited normal cholesterol levels, 9 respondents (30%) had borderline high cholesterol levels, and 5 respondents (17%) were classified as having high cholesterol levels. These findings suggest that most hypertensive individuals in the productive age category present with cholesterol levels ranging from normal to borderline high, although a smaller proportion already experience clinically high cholesterol concentrations. The study highlights the importance of regular monitoring of both blood pressure and lipid profiles in productive-age individuals to prevent progression to more severe cardiovascular complications. Lifestyle modification remains a cornerstone in hypertension management, particularly increasing physical activity, adopting a balanced diet low in saturated fats, and maintaining good sleep hygiene. Such preventive strategies can help reduce the dual burden of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, ultimately lowering the risk of long-term cardiovascular disease.

Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder characterized by an increase or decrease in blood plasma fat levels. This condition includes high levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In general, dyslipidemia is divided into two types: primary, which is influenced by genetic factors, and secondary, which is caused by other diseases or an unhealthy lifestyle. Dyslipidemia is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, making its prevention and treatment very important. In this study, male white mice were used and induced with a high-fat diet to trigger dyslipidemia. The test animals were then divided into six groups: a negative control, a positive control (given simvastatin at a dose of 0.36 mL/day), and three treatment groups with microcapsules of Chinese betel leaf herb ethanol extract (EEHSC) at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75%. The treatment was administered orally for 14 days. Cholesterol levels were measured before and after treatment using a digital cholesterol tester and laboratory analysis to ensure more accurate results. The results showed a decrease in cholesterol levels with varying percentages in each group. The negative control decreased by 24.8%, the positive control by 36.1%, the 0.25% EEHSC by 24.1%, the 0.5% EEHSC by 34.7%, and the 0.75% EEHSC by 45.5%. This indicates that the 0.5% EEHSC treatment produced cholesterol reductions almost comparable to simvastatin. Interestingly, the highest effect was observed in the 0.75% group, indicating a dose-dependent response. In contrast, the 0.25% concentration only produced a less than optimal effect. Thus, microcapsules of ethanol extract of the Chinese betel leaf herb have potential as an alternative agent for lowering cholesterol levels, particularly in dyslipidemia. These findings suggest that natural-based therapies could complement conventional treatments in managing lipid disorders.

Obesity, central obesity, and hypercholesterolemia are prevalent yet often unrecognized health conditions that significantly elevate the risk for various non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders. These conditions, when left undiagnosed and untreated, contribute to the growing public health burden worldwide. This community service program was designed to raise awareness and provide early detection of these conditions through basic health screening measures, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and blood cholesterol levels. The program was implemented in Tomang Subdistrict, West Jakarta, where 90 participants were involved. The findings from the screening revealed concerning results: 67% of the participants were classified as obese, and 58% had central obesity, both of which are major risk factors for NCDs. A deeper analysis of lifestyle factors highlighted that high-fat diets, sedentary behaviors, and night shift work were significant contributors to the high rates of obesity and metabolic abnormalities observed. The educational outreach component of the program, which included the provision of information about healthy diets, exercise, and the importance of regular health screenings, proved to be effective in raising awareness about these health issues. Moreover, the simple health screening process was well-received by the community and contributed to a greater understanding of individual health risks. This initiative is expected to serve as a sustainable model for promoting health and preventing metabolic diseases in the community. The findings underscore the importance of early detection and education as critical strategies in the fight against obesity and related NCDs, suggesting that such programs can play a key role in reducing the future burden of chronic diseases in underserved populations

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, pose significant health risks for the elderly in Indonesia, including those in Aneuk Paya Village, Lhoknga District, Aceh Besar. These conditions, if left unmanaged, can lead to severe complications, impacting the quality of life of older adults. This community service project aims to improve elderly individuals' understanding of NCDs, as well as their prevention and management, through educational initiatives carried out at the Integrated Health Post (Posbindu). The activities involved interactive counseling sessions, health assessments including blood pressure monitoring, and measurements of body weight, height, waist circumference, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. The community service event, conducted on July 22, 2025, revealed a significant improvement in the elderly participants’ knowledge about NCDs. Notably, 83% of the participants gained a better understanding of the prevention of NCDs, while 70% reported improved knowledge regarding blood sugar and blood pressure management. Moreover, there was a noticeable increase in the number of elderly individuals attending regular Posbindu visits, which suggests a growing commitment to managing their health. Health education through Posbindu has proven to be an effective tool in raising awareness and changing health behaviors among the elderly, helping to prevent NCD complications. The project demonstrates the pivotal role of Posbindu not only in promoting NCD prevention but also in providing continuous support to the elderly in managing their health, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. This initiative highlights the importance of local health programs in addressing the growing prevalence of NCDs in elderly populations and emphasizes the need for further community-based health interventions.

Excessive fat consumption can lead to increased cholesterol levels in the body, which in turn can trigger various serious health problems, including heart disease, blood vessel blockage, and even stroke. Blood cholesterol consists of two main types: LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as bad cholesterol, and HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, which plays a role in transporting cholesterol from the blood vessels to the liver for excretion. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels can cause plaque buildup on blood vessel walls, which narrows blood flow and increases the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. One method considered effective for lowering LDL cholesterol levels in the blood is by consuming phytosterols, compounds found naturally in various types of plants. Phytosterols have a structure similar to cholesterol and can compete with cholesterol for absorption in the intestine. This results in a decrease in the amount of cholesterol entering the body, thereby reducing total cholesterol levels and especially LDL cholesterol in the blood. Research shows that giving food or supplements containing about 3 grams of phytosterols per day to human subjects can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 15%. Furthermore, phytosterols directly isolated from plants, such as green beans, have also been shown to significantly lower LDL cholesterol levels. Studies in mice fed phytosterols isolated from green beans showed a reduction in blood LDL cholesterol levels of more than 30%. This demonstrates the potential of phytosterols as a natural ingredient that can be used to support cholesterol management in the body. Although phytosterols have significant potential in lowering cholesterol levels, it is important to remember that consuming supplements or foods containing phytosterols should be done under the supervision and recommendation of a medical professional, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking medications.