NERS NEWS — SURABAYA – A group of PKK B6 students from the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga , conducted a health promotion activity titled “Let’s Get to Know Diabetes Mellitus” aimed at patients’ families in the ICU waiting room of Universitas Airlangga Hospital on Thursday (March 12, 2026). Lasting for thirty minutes from 10:30 AM, this session focused on increasing public awareness in recognizing early symptoms and performing self-management of diabetes.
During the session, the students explained that diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. The participants were introduced to common symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased appetite, and slow wound healing. In addition, they were informed about normal blood glucose levels, which range from 70–100 mg/dL during fasting and below 140 mg/dL in non-fasting conditions.
This activity, involving ICU patients’ families, was carried out with direct assistance from ICU nurses at Universitas Airlangga Hospital. Through interactive discussions in the waiting area, families were able to ask questions and gain deeper understanding about various risk factors, including unhealthy lifestyles and genetic predisposition contributing to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. This educational initiative represents a concrete effort to improve public health literacy while strengthening the role of healthcare workers in preventing non-communicable diseases, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being.
The use of simple and accessible language made the information easier for the general public to understand, aligning with SDG 4: Quality Education. Furthermore, the strong collaboration between academic institutions such as the Faculty of Nursing Unair and advanced healthcare services at Universitas Airlangga Hospital reflects the implementation of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. This synergy between academics and healthcare practitioners is expected to strengthen the public health system sustainably.
Through this initiative, it is hoped that the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, which accounts for up to 95 percent of all diabetes cases, can be reduced through early detection and lifestyle modifications. The students reaffirmed their commitment to continuously contributing to society in creating a healthier environment and supporting the achievement of sustainable development targets in the future.
Author: Sajidah Syawala Raisya Diandra Putri Widofar
Editor: Eva Khoirunnisa Adinta (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
