Barrang Caddi Island, [October 26, 2024] – The Student Executive Board (BEM) of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar (Unismuh) once again held a community service program with the theme “Pengabdian Pulau: Improving the Health of Islanders through Physical Examination and Nutrition for a Healthy Generation”. This activity aims to make a real contribution in improving the health status of the people on Barrang Caddi Island, with a focus on physical health checks and nutritional status which also collaborates with the Nutrition Department of the Faculty of Medicine, Muhammadiyah University of Makassar and Relawan Gesit.

This activity was also accompanied by a lecturer, Dr. Muh Zulfahmi. The active participation of the lecturers provided more support in ensuring that the health checks went well and in accordance with medical standards.

Through a series of health examination activities, the BEM FK Unismuh team screened the physical health and nutrition of the Barrang Caddi island community. This involved a series of health checks such as blood pressure measurement, body mass index (BMI), and nutritional assessment to diagnose malnutrition or other health problems. This activity targets all levels of society, from children to adults, to identify health problems that are prone to occur in the region.

The Vice Chairman of BEM FK Unismuh in his remarks said, “Pengabdian Pulau is an annual activity by BEM FK Unismuh which is a form of direct service and contribution to the community. For this year itself, BEM FK Unismuh collaborates with Assistant Lecturer of Nutrition FK Unismuh to be directly involved in physical and nutritional examinations on Barrang Caddi island. Hopefully in this year’s service, it does not end as an event, but can also have an impact on the long-term community and can hone social sensitivity. Finally, I would like to say thank you very much to the community members and the parties who contributed.”

In addition to health checks, this activity was also accompanied by education about a balanced diet and the importance of nutrition for body health. The education was provided by medical students who played an active role in increasing the community’s understanding of the importance of nutrition in everyday life.

The lecturer who acted as the doctor in charge, dr. Hairul Anwar, M.Kes, Sp.PK also stated that activities like this are important to support government programs in improving public health in the islands. They also added that students get the opportunity to apply medical knowledge directly in real conditions, strengthening their clinical expertise and social skills.

“Pengabdian Pulau” activity is expected to have a long-term positive impact on the community, especially in building a healthier and more prosperous generation in the future.