The Relationship of Hand Washing Behavior on the Nutritional Status of Adolescents at SMP Kristen Elim Makassar
Keywords:
hand washing behavior; nutritional status; adolescentsAbstract
Background: Hand washing is a critical sanitation practice that directly affects individual health by preventing the transmission of pathogens. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the relationship between hand washing behavior and nutritional status among
adolescents at SMP Kristen Elim Makassar. Methods: Using a quantitative design, the study employed a cross-sectional approach. The population consisted of 116 students, with 80 selected as the sample using stratified random sampling. Data were collected
through anthropometric measurements and questionnaires and analyzed using Spearman’s rho. Results: The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between hand washing behavior and nutritional status. Adolescents with adequate hand washing
behavior predominantly demonstrated better nutritional status, reflecting a healthier lifestyle. Conclusion: Enhancing hand washing habits can contribute to improved nutritional status among adolescents.