High blood pressure or hypertension remains a hidden threat in urban communities, including Surabaya. Known as a silent killer, this condition often shows no symptoms but can have fatal consequences, such as increasing the risk of stroke.

In response to this growing concern, the Faculty of Health Sciences at Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya, along with lecturers and students, took concrete action through a hypertension support program targeting the area with the highest cases: Gubeng District.

The program ran for four weeks, from December 2024 to January 2025, involving 150 hypertension patients. Its primary goal was to improve self-efficacy among patients and their families in managing serious complications like stroke.

“Many patients rely solely on medication without changing their lifestyle. However, behavioral change is crucial,” said Ira Purnamasari, a Nursing lecturer and program team leader.

The initiative also collaborated with the Aisyiyah Branch Health Council (PCA) of Gubeng as a strategic partner. Thirty Aisyiyah volunteers were specially trained to serve as facilitators, providing door-to-door assistance to patients.

Through educational materials like posters, leaflets, direct discussions, and Q&A sessions at patients’ homes, the volunteers delivered interactive information on hypertension, healthy living, and the importance of family support.

“What we did wasn’t just education—we built emotional connections. This made patients feel they weren’t alone,” said Firman, a nursing student involved in the program.

Post-program evaluations showed significant results: Good knowledge about hypertension and stroke rose from 24.7% to 78.7%, no participants remained in the low-knowledge category, and patient self-efficacy improved from 60.7% (moderate) to 74.7% (good).

“Patients with high self-efficacy are more consistent in taking medication, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying active,” added Ira.

The program also promoted the CERDIK educational approach: Regular health checks, Eliminating cigarette smoke, Regular physical activity, Balanced diet, Adequate rest, and Stress management.

Beyond that, family involvement was equally vital. They didn’t just remind patients to take medication but also became partners in lifestyle changes.

“Before, we just told our mother to take her pills. Now, we also watch our diet, exercise together, and encourage each other,” shared one patient’s family member.

With a population of 132,000, including over 33,000 hypertension patients, Gubeng was an ideal location for community-based health interventions. UM Surabaya hopes this program’s success can serve as a national model.

“We want this program to be replicable. Psychosocial support isn’t just about information—it’s about hope and human connection,” emphasized Ira.

The program was supported by the Muhammadiyah Research Grant Batch VIII and UM Surabaya’s Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM), demonstrating the university’s commitment to improving public health in Indonesia.

Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya

The Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya (UMSURA) is a private university in Surabaya, Indonesia, established by Muhammadiyah, a prominent Islamic organization, in 1981. It focuses on integrating Islamic values with higher education, offering programs in fields such as health sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The university plays a key role in promoting education and community development in line with Muhammadiyah’s mission of advancing modern education while maintaining religious principles.

Gubeng District

Gubeng District is a bustling urban area located in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. Historically, it was a key residential and commercial zone during the Dutch colonial era, and today it remains a vital hub with modern amenities, educational institutions, and transportation links, including Gubeng Railway Station. The district reflects Surabaya’s growth from a colonial city to a major economic center in Indonesia.

Aisyiyah Branch Health Council (PCA) of Gubeng

The Aisyiyah Branch Health Council (PCA) of Gubeng is a community health initiative under Muhammadiyah’s women’s organization, Aisyiyah, which focuses on promoting public health and wellness in the Gubeng district of Surabaya, Indonesia. Established as part of Aisyiyah’s broader mission, it provides health education, maternal-child care, and preventive healthcare services rooted in Islamic values. The organization has played a key role in grassroots health advocacy since its founding, aligning with Muhammadiyah’s long-standing tradition of social welfare and education.

CERDIK

“CERDIK” is not a widely recognized cultural or historical site, and there is limited information available about it. It may refer to a local institution, acronym, or lesser-known place. If you have additional context or details, please provide them for a more accurate summary.

Muhammadiyah Research Grant Batch VIII

The **Muhammadiyah Research Grant Batch VIII** is an initiative by Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia’s largest Islamic organizations, to support academic and scientific research. This grant program aims to foster innovation, education, and community development in line with Muhammadiyah’s mission of advancing knowledge and social welfare. Batch VIII continues the organization’s long-standing tradition of empowering researchers and addressing societal challenges through evidence-based solutions.

UM Surabaya’s Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM)

The Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) at Universitas Muhammadiyah (UM) Surabaya is an institution dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and community engagement. Established to support academic and societal development, LPPM facilitates collaborative research projects, publishes scholarly work, and organizes community service initiatives. Its mission aligns with UM Surabaya’s goal of contributing to education and social welfare through knowledge-based solutions.