Buletin Poltanesa
Vol 27 No 1 (2026): June 2026

Empowering Religious Leaders for Sustainable Prevention of Lifestyle-Related Diseases

Elizabeth Sulastri Nugraheni (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Hanna Tabita Hasianna Silitonga (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Saskia Dyah Handari (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Mellyanawati Mellyanawati (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Stefani Nurhadi (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Jennifer Tantadiputra (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)
Rafkha Hakam Irsyad Maulana (Universitas Ciputra Surabaya)



Article Info

Publish Date
26 Jun 2026

Abstract

Promotive and preventive care represents the most meaningful contribution physicians can make within preventive medicine. However, this approach is often difficult to implement in clinical settings, where patients typically seek help only after illness has developed. Strengthening health literacy and promoting healthier lifestyles at the community level are therefore essential to preventing lifestyle-related non-communicable diseases before onset. This study explores the empowerment of religious leaders and Islamic scholars as key actors in community-based promotive and preventive health efforts. In Indonesia’s collectivist and high–power distance culture, religious figures hold influential positions, making them effective agents of change for health education and behavior transformation. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed using secondary data from questionnaires administered during community engagement activities. Educational sessions addressed lifestyle and health issues across demographic groups. Twenty-three participants completed structured self-assessments, and program effectiveness was evaluated using pre- and post-test measures. Results demonstrated diverse demographic characteristics among participants. Post-intervention findings showed a 13.1% improvement in attitudes toward healthy lifestyle practices. Additionally, 47.82% of participants had a body mass index above the normal range. These findings highlight the potential of religious leaders as catalysts for sustainable, community-based preventive health practices.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

tanesa

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Computer Science & IT Education

Description

Buletin Poltanesa is a collection of research articles, scientific works, and dedication from all academic community in order to integrate information. Buletin Poltanesa provides open publication services for all members of the public, both in all tertiary educational and teacher environments and ...