Non-communicable diseases in adolescents in Indonesia

AIC Strategic Research Project 4: Assessment of Non Communicable Disease and associated risks among Indonesian adolescents

Globally there has been a significant shift in the pattern of disease with non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mental disorder. They are now the prevailing cause of death and disability in most countries, including Indonesia.

Adolescents represent an important population group in terms of responding to NCD because:

  • Many of the risk factors for adult NCD (such as tobacco use, physical inactivity and poor diet) arise and are potentially modifiable during adolescence.
  • Adolescents experience a significant burden of preventable NCD including mental disorder, asthma and chronic pain.

Currently, there is limited data documenting the prevalence of certain NCD risks and outcomes among Indonesian adolescents, and the determinants that underpin them. How young people perceive NCD risk and outcomes remains poorly described. These understandings are critical to informing effective preventive and treatment interventions.

Study’s aims:

  • Improve knowledge regarding the burden of key NCDs and associated risks
  • To better understand their determinants amongst Indonesian 16-18 year-olds.

Mental health and metabolic risk

Mental disorders typically have their onset during adolescence and poor mental health is a leading contributor to the burden of disease experienced by Indonesian adolescents. More than half of premature mortality and morbidity experienced by Indonesian adults is attributable to metabolic risk. Of the metabolic risks, high body mass index typically arises during adolescence.


  1. Assess the prevalence of poor mental health and high body mass index amongst a population-based sample of Indonesian 16-18 year-olds
  2. Explore Indonesian adolescents' attitudes towards poor mental health and metabolic risk
  3. Identify and assess key determinants of poor mental health and high body mass index amongst Indonesian adolescents
  4. Define accessible opportunities for intervention, with a focus on the health and education sectors.




  • Universitas Indonesia
  • Universitas Hasanuddin
  • University of Melbourne


  • The Australia-Indonesia Centre

Health Issue

Contact Details

For any general enquiries relating to this project, please contact:

Lisa Willenberg

Adolescent Health Officer