EDUKASI PRA-PUBERTAS DAN PENCEGAHAN ANEMIA UNTUK MENDUKUNG KESEHATAN OTAK PADA ANAK PUTERI

Abstract

Pre-puberty is a critical transition period for girls, marked by accelerated physical and physiological changes that require adequate nutritional support. Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, remains a prevalent health problem among adolescent girls in Indonesia, with significant implications for cognitive function and brain development. Girls residing in orphanages are especially vulnerable due to limited access to nutritious food and health education. This community service activity aimed to improve knowledge of pre-pubertal girls at Panti Asuhan Graha Yatim dan Dhu'afa, Banjarbaru City, regarding puberty preparation and anemia prevention strategies to support optimal brain health. The activity was conducted on March 17, 2026, employing a health education approach comprising pre-test assessment, structured counseling sessions, interactive group discussion, and post-test evaluation. Participants included pre-pubertal girls residing at the orphanage. Educational materials covered the physiological processes of puberty, nutritional requirements during the pre-pubertal phase, causes and consequences of iron deficiency anemia, and practical dietary strategies for anemia prevention. Evaluation using pre-test and post-test instruments demonstrated a meaningful increase in participants' knowledge scores following the educational intervention. The mean pre-test score was 52.4 (SD ± 8.3), which increased to 81.7 (SD ± 7.1) on the post-test, representing a statistically and practically significant improvement. These findings indicate that structured health education effectively enhances knowledge among pre-pubertal girls in institutional care settings. Sustaining such programs through periodic reinforcement and integration with institutional nutrition policies is recommended to achieve long-term health outcomes