SOCIALIZATION OF BASIC NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNIQUES FOR EARLY DETECTION OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES IN THE COMMUNITY AT GRAN THERESIA HERNA GENERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health challenge, dominating morbidity and mortality worldwide, including in Indonesia, with rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses. Beyond straining health systems, NCDs reduce productivity and quality of life, largely driven by modifiable risk factors such as poor diet and physical inactivity that often go undetected early. Nuclear medicine offers highly sensitive diagnostic modalities capable of detecting cellular and molecular abnormalities before clinical symptoms appear. Yet, public understanding and access to nuclear medicine for NCD screening remain limited, as reflected in national surveys (Riskesdas) showing continued increases in NCD prevalence. This highlights the urgent need for effective public education interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a basic nuclear medicine outreach program in improving public knowledge, awareness, and interest in early NCD detection at Gran Theresia Herna General Hospital. Guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM), the main hypothesis proposed that participation in the program would significantly increase knowledge, awareness, and interest in screening. A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was used, involving 100 adult participants recruited through convenience sampling. A validated and reliable structured questionnaire (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.70) measured outcomes before and after the intervention. The program consisted of interactive sessions on NCD prevention and nuclear medicine applications (e.g., PET-CT for cancer, radioiodine for thyroid disorders). Results showed significant improvements: knowledge increased from 55.2 ± 12.5 to 82.7 ± 9.8 (t(99) = 18.5, p < 0.001, d = 1.85); awareness from 62.1 ± 10.4 to 88.5 ± 7.5 (t(99) = 16.2, p < 0.001, d = 1.62); and interest from 58.9 ± 11.1 to 85.3 ± 8.2 (t(99) = 15.5, p < 0.001, d = 1.55). Explanations of nuclear medicine techniques most improved knowledge, while patient testimonials were most effective for awareness. In conclusion, the outreach program was highly effective in enhancing literacy and motivation for early NCD detection. These findings support the HBM framework and suggest practical strategies for integrating similar programs into primary healthcare to improve public engagement and proactive screening.