Community Health Education and Behavioral Change: Evaluating the Impact of a Village-Based Nutrition Campaign

Abstract

This research evaluates the effectiveness of a village-based health education campaign focused on improving nutritional behaviors among rural families in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Using a pre-post design with mixed methods, the campaign involved mothers, health cadres, and local leaders in a series of interactive workshops, cooking demonstrations, and monitoring activities over a three-month period. Quantitative findings show a statistically significant increase in the consumption of nutritious local food, especially among children under five. Qualitative data suggest improved awareness and household food practices. However, barriers such as food affordability and cultural food preferences persist. The study highlights the importance of contextualized health education and community participation in achieving sustainable behavioral change in public health.