Health Promotion Models to Reduce Childhood Obesity in Elementary School: A Comparison Study between Indonesia and Australia

Abstract

Aims: There were concrete experience and efforts from Australian and Indonesian government in reducing cases of obesity in society. Cases of obesity among school children in Indonesia have increased with its serious impact. The aim of this research is to compare health promotion models in elementary schools in Indonesia and Australia to reduce obesity prevalence. Study Design: This study used was qualitative approach, with research focus are health promotion models related to efforts to reduce childhood obesity prevalence in Indonesia and Australia. Place and Duration of Study: Place of study was in elementary schools in Semarang City, Indonesia and Queensland, Australia, between July and December 2014. Methodology: Data used in this research were secondary data, from previous studies, while supporting data were primary data regarding to focus group discussion (FGD) results and Angelo. Instruments used were observation guide, charging sheet data, as well as focus group discussion, and Angelo. Data were analyzed with the model from Miles and Huber man. Results: Health promotion model in elementary schools in Indonesia was called school health activity (in bahasa called Usaha Kesehatan Sekolah-UKS). This program could not be applied properly because of limited and un-competence human resources in the field of health, limited infrastructure, and lack of coordination among relevant stakeholder. Health promotion model in elementary schools in Australia, in line with those in Indonesia, known as the Australian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority (ACARA), that was integrated into the school curriculum. This program was supported by the Smart Choice program, Smart Moves, and Stepanie Nation Alexander Kitchen Garden program. Not all schools have implemented the program well, because either state or school had its own regulation. Conclusion: Alternative models recommended were UKS with high commitment, an integrated health education, and local potential based UKS.