NERS NEWS — Students of the Nursing Profession Program, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Batch B27, carried out a Hospital Health Promotion (PKRS) activity titled “Myths and Facts About Diabetes Mellitus — Uncovered” at the Waiting Room of Kenjeran Public Health Center, Surabaya, on Wednesday, 15 September 2026. This activity aimed to improve the knowledge of patients and their families regarding the definition, classification, signs and symptoms, risk factors, warning signs, blood glucose targets for people with diabetes mellitus, complications, prevention, the 4 pillars of diabetes mellitus management, and myths and facts about diabetes mellitus circulating in the community.
Hospital Health Promotion (PKRS) is part of the Nursing Profession students’ assignments to fulfill nursing competencies. The PKRS was attended by patients and their families, as well as students from Community and Family Nursing Rotation Group 2, Wave 2, working area of Kenjeran Public Health Center, under the supervision of academic supervisor Mr. Aziz Nashiruddin Habibie, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep., and clinical supervisor Mr. Afif Nailil Huda, S.Kep., Ns.
Health education was delivered through lectures and interactive discussions over 30 minutes, supported by posters and leaflets. Health education regarding myths and facts about diabetes mellitus (DM) commonly found in the community was clearly presented. The speaker explained the material systematically, starting from the definition of diabetes mellitus, its classification, signs and symptoms, risk factors, warning signs, blood glucose targets, complications, prevention, the 4 pillars of diabetes management, and myths and facts circulating in society. The speaker used clear, easy-to-understand language, actively engaged with the audience, asked questions, and opened opportunities for participants to ask questions. This communicative approach helped participants better understand the myths and facts about diabetes mellitus.
This health promotion corrected various misconceptions in the community. Myths such as the belief that people with diabetes must completely avoid carbohydrates, fruits, or snacks were clarified. These foods can still be consumed as long as portions are adjusted according to nutritional needs. Participants were also reminded to watch for acute and vascular complications, including heart disease, eye damage (retinopathy), and nerve damage (neuropathy). If warning signs appear, such as blood glucose exceeding 300 mg/dL, loss of consciousness, or chest pain, patients should be referred immediately to a hospital.
This PKRS activity on “Myths and Facts About Diabetes Mellitus” supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, by improving community knowledge about diabetes mellitus myths and facts.
- SDG 4 – Quality Education, by providing health education that strengthens health literacy among patients and families.
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, through collaboration between the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, and Kenjeran Public Health Center in organizing health promotion.
This PKRS activity is expected to improve public understanding of diabetes-related myths, facts, and prevention methods. Through continuous educational efforts, Nursing Profession students contribute to improving the quality of health services, community empowerment, and progress toward sustainable development goals in health.
Writer: Ariza Mawar Anjelia
