Indonesian Health Group Launches Program to Detect Anemia and Stunting Early

The Indonesian Puskesmas Indonesia Acceleration Center (APKESMI) has launched a new program to bolster the role of community health centers in combating anemia and stunting among mothers and children. Dubbed "Puskesmas Siap SEDIA" (Screening, Education, Intervention Action to Prevent Anemia and Stunting), the initiative aims to enhance early detection and intervention at the community level.

This program is a direct response to Indonesia's persistent stunting problem, which affected 19.8% of toddlers in 2024, according to the National Nutrition Status Survey. Kusnadi, the Chairman of APKESMI, emphasized the strategic importance of community health centers as the frontline of public health services. "Through the Puskesmas Siap SEDIA Program, we want to strengthen the role of puskesmas in conducting screening, education, and intervention in a more structured manner," Kusnadi stated.

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Through the Puskesmas Siap SEDIA Program, we want to strengthen the role of puskesmas in conducting screening, education, and intervention in a more structured manner. Prevention of anemia and stunting must be done early so that the impact on child development can be minimized.

The program employs a three-stage integrated approach: screening, education, and intervention. Health workers will use anthropometric standards and iron calculators for initial risk assessment. Educational materials, such as the "Flipchart SEDIA," will provide guidance on balanced nutrition and the importance of iron intake. Interventions will then be tailored based on individual screening results and health professional recommendations.

APKESMI is committed to fostering innovation in primary healthcare by enhancing health worker competencies, advocating for supportive policies, and collaborating with government bodies, academics, professional organizations, and the private sector. Danone Specialized Nutrition Indonesia also supports the initiative, highlighting the need for evidence-based approaches in preventing stunting and anemia. They believe research is fundamental to developing effective health and nutrition solutions relevant to the Indonesian population.

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Research is the main foundation in the development of various health and nutrition programs. Therefore, we continue to strengthen collaboration with health workers, academics, professional organizations, and even the government to provide solutions that are relevant to the needs of the Indonesian people.