MEASURING RENAL FUNCTION (KNOWLEDGE AND MANAGEMENT) AMONG YOUTH KARANG TARUNA MEMBER IN BANYUMAS REGENCY: INSTRUMENT DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is among the most prevalent non-communicable diseases globally, with rising incidence in Indonesia, including Central Java. Despite the growing burden, knowledge and health literacy related to kidney function remain limited among youths. Karang Taruna, a community-based youth organization, presents a promising platform for advancing preventive health strategies, including CKD prevention. This study aimed to develop a valid and reliable instrument to assess knowledge and behavior in kidney function management and to evaluate these aspects among youth members of Karang Taruna in Banyumas Regency. The quantitative phase involved instrument validation and reliability testing, adapted from NCD screening tools, followed by descriptive analysis. Time-based sampling was employed, and data were collected via Google Forms. Pearson correlation and Cronbach’s alpha were used for validity and reliability testing, respectively. The knowledge questionnaire had 45 items, and the management behavior section had 21 items. On validity testing, 3 items were removed. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.722 for knowledge and 0.875 for management, showing good internal consistency. Among the 30 respondents, 100% reported a "Very Good" category in kidney function management and showed good preventive behavior. External triangulation, however, is recommended to check consistency between knowledge and behavior. The instrument constructed is reliable and valid to assess knowledge and management of kidney function behavior. Findings affirm that Karang Taruna youth have high potential as kidney health promoters for public health enhancement. A future study should focus on instegrating a mobile-based application to support education and self-assessment of kidney health.