Knowledge, Attitudes, Eating Practices, and Iron (Fe) Consumption among Adolescent Girls (Aged 10-18 Years) in Central Java, Indonesia

Background The Iron (Fe) supplementation program was initiated in 2016 by the Indonesian government. The program included administering iron tablets once a week to female students in schools, although it was not effectively implemented. Objective This study aimed to examine knowledge, attitudes, and eating practices as well as iron intake among adolescent girls (Aged 10-18 Years) in Central Java, Indonesia. Methods and Materials A cross-sectional study was conducted with 484 respondents. The data obtained were analyzed using univariate as the descriptive method, bivariate with Chi-square, and multivariate through logistic regression. Results This study found that knowledge and positive attitudes toward iron tablet consumption were prevalent among respondents, but actual adherence was low, with only 14.7% adhering to the recommended intake. Although adolescent girls showed better eating practices, adherence to consumption did not differ significantly across age groups. A healthy lifestyle significantly improved iron tablet consumption (OR = 14.684) and eating practices (OR = 30.298). The source of information played a crucial role, with health providers being more effective in promoting behaviors (OR = 2.615 for iron tablet consumption and OR = 1.713 for healthy eating practices) compared to non-health attendants (OR = 0.332 for poor eating practices). These results suggested that targeted interventions focusing on lifestyle and information sources could enhance health behaviors in this population. Conclusion A significant influence of knowledge related to anemia, the benefits of iron tablets, healthy eating patterns, and sources of information was observed on the adherence to iron tablet consumption. However, this study recommended that to improve adolescent adherence to iron tablet consumption and eating practices, comprehensive knowledge related to anemia should be provided through various sources, particularly from health professionals.