Using WhatsApp for Nutrition Surveillance Among Children Under 5 Years in West Java, Indonesia: Cross-Sectional...

Large-scale programs involving nutrition-specific interventions have been carried out in Indonesia as a community-based approach at the primary care level across cities and districts, throughout the age-specific target population (ie, children under 5 years).

The aim of this paper is to describe the potential use of WhatsApp as a tool for recording and monitoring the growth of children under 5 years by Posyandu (Pos Pelayanan Terpadu or community-based health service post), investigating its potential in enhancing health programs and services.

Data were collected from Posyandu cadres in Bogor District, West Java, from March to June 2022. The anthropometric measurement data were reported in real time through a WhatsApp chatbot, automatically analyzed by the system, and presented in a structured dashboard. A qualitative assessment was carried out using a cross-sectional survey conducted from March to July 2022.

The study involved 42 Posyandu in 3 villages, engaging 282 staff, and the WhatsApp chatbot recorded anthropometric data for 4571 children under 5 years. The qualitative assessment indicated widespread system utilization, with 50% (45/90) affirming comprehensive data input. Additionally, 66.4% (83/129) found the system easy to use, and 66.7% (82/123) expressed clarity in comprehending variables. Moreover, 75.6% (93/123) found the data input flow easily understood, and 74% (91/123) suggested that the system contributed to enhancing Posyandu activities and the quality of data reporting. Regarding staff proficiency, 63.5% (80/126) affirmed their adeptness in using the system, and 71% (88/124) asserted their high capability in providing training to colleagues.

The potential use of WhatsApp as a surveillance tool for recording children's nutritional status is promising, suggesting broader applications within health programs. Nonetheless, this expansion requires additional improvements, including human resource preparation, Posyandu infrastructure development, and strong regulatory support.