Correlation between health status and academic achievement among elementary school students in North Jakarta

BACKGROUND: High-performing students are essential investments in building the nation's future. In Indonesia, however, the correlation between students’ health and academic achievement is rarely examined. This study aimed to evaluate primary school students’ health status and its relation to their academic achievement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A survey was conducted on 1335 students from four primary schools in North Jakarta. Health assessments included nutritional status, hair, skin condition, dental, vision, and ear conditions. Parents filled sociodemographic questionnaire. Mid-exam scores in core subjects determined academic achievement. Data were analyzed using binomial logistic regression to determine the relation of health status with students’ academic achievement. RESULTS: In the younger group, students who were stunted (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.23, 95% CI: 1.11-4.50), had dental caries (AOR 2.16, 95% CI: 1.15-4.04), hair problems (AOR 2.04, 95% CI: 1.15-3.59), and skin problems (AOR 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01-2.20) were more likely to have a low-performing index. In the older group, students with hair problems tend to have a low-performing index (AOR 3.05, 95% CI: 1.88-5.89). Meanwhile, the students who wore eye glasses were more likely to achieve a high-performing index in the older group (AOR 0.60, 95% CI: 0.50-0.78). CONCLUSION: This study shows a significant correlation between students’ health status and academic achievement, where students with health problems were more likely to have lower grades compared to their counterparts. Regular health screening and examination are vital to maintaining students’ health; therefore, their academic achievement can be increased.