Effectiveness of Mobile Apps and Digital Media Interventions on Knowledge and Anemia-Related Behaviors Among Adolescent Girls in Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract: Anemia among adolescent girls is a significant public health problem in Indonesia. The development of digital technology and the widespread use of smartphones have created opportunities for nutrition education through mobile apps and digital media. This article reviews the evidence gathered over the past ten years (2014-2024) regarding the effectiveness of digital interventions in enhancing knowledge, changing behaviors, and improving hemoglobin (Hb) levels in adolescent girls. This study aims to assess and summarize the effectiveness of the existing literature on anemia education delivered via mobile applications and digital media targeted at adolescent girls in Indonesia. The methodology employed was a narrative review by searching scientific articles through Google Scholar, the Garuda Portal, and PubMed platforms. The narrative review included 14 articles and highlighted the variations in the use of digital media and applications for anemia education. The results revealed that digital interventions consistently improved knowledge and attitude about anemia, and increased adherence to iron tablet consumption in several studies (p<0.05). However, evidence concerning changes in Hb levels varied significantly. In conclusion, digital education is an effective means of enhancing knowledge and can improve behavior when combined with iron supplementation and monitoring strategies.

Keywords: Anemia, adolescent girls, knowledge, digital education, mobile applications, Indonesia.