RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The Tulungagung Health Office (Dinkes) has identified five school-aged children who tested positive for diabetes mellitus (DM) following follow-up examinations through the Free Health Check-up program (CKG).

This poses a serious public health concern in Tulungagung.

The finding came from the CKG screening, which revealed that 26 children had hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels.

They then underwent follow-up fasting blood tests to confirm their health condition.

Desi Lusiana Wardhani, Head of the Tulungagung Health Office (Dinkes), revealed that out of 26 children identified with hyperglycemia, five tested positive for diabetes mellitus.

“After follow-up fasting blood tests, five children were confirmed to have diabetes mellitus. Even a single case of diabetes in a child is a serious concern,” Desi said.

She explained that all the children diagnosed with diabetes are under 17 years old and still in school, from elementary (SD) to junior high school (SMP).

Of the five cases, one child has type 1 diabetes mellitus, linked to genetic factors, while the remaining four have type 2 diabetes mellitus, caused by behavioral and lifestyle factors.

“Most cases are type 2 diabetes, which results from behaviors such as diet, snacking, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits,” she explained.

Desi emphasized that the children diagnosed with diabetes are now considered patients and require regular monitoring.

This is provided by the nearest community health center (puskesmas) based on each child’s residence, with nurses and healthcare workers in the village overseeing their care.

“Monitoring is provided by the community health center (puskesmas). The children are treated as patients, receiving medication and therapy according to the doctor’s diagnosis,” she said.

Regarding treatment costs, Desi stated that healthcare services will follow each patient’s insurance coverage.

If a patient is covered by Social Security Agency for Health (BPJS Kesehatan), the treatment costs are paid by BPJS, while general patients follow the standard payment procedures.

“Monitoring is provided by the government through the puskesmas, but treatment depends on the patient’s health insurance. Monitoring and treatment are two separate matters,” she concluded.

Desi added that this finding serves as an important warning for parents and the community to pay greater attention to promoting healthy lifestyles in children from an early age, particularly regarding diet and physical activity. (sri/c1/rka)