CUPPING THERAPY EDUCATION AS AN EFFORT TO PREVENT DEGENERATIVE DISEASES IN SUKABANJAR VILLAGE

Abstract

Degenerative diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia remain the leading causes of morbidity, especially in rural areas with low health literacy. Cupping therapy is a complementary therapy believed to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, but the public still has many misconceptions about its mechanism of action, safe procedures, and risks. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of cupping therapy education in increasing public knowledge as a preventive measure against degenerative diseases in Sukabanjar Village.The study used a one-group pre-post test quasi-experimental design with 20 respondents. Education was provided through interactive lectures, demonstrations, videos, and leaflets. Knowledge was measured using a questionnaire containing 10 questions related to the benefits, types of cupping, indications, contraindications, and safe areas for treatment.The results show a significant increase in the community's knowledge score, from an average of 47% in the pre-test to 98.5% in the post-test. Education has proven to be effective in correcting misconceptions, especially regarding the assumption that cupping removes “dirty blood” and the belief that all areas of the body can be cupped. In addition, the increased understanding that cupping should be performed by trained personnel indicates an increase in public awareness of safety aspects.In conclusion, health education has proven to be effective in improving health literacy and public understanding of safe cupping therapy. This education has the potential to be a preventive strategy to support the prevention of degenerative diseases in rural communities.