Background: Dental caries may cause discomfort and pain when chewing food, which in turn leads to insufficient absorption of nutrients, including iron, by the body. Lack of iron intake can cause iron-deficiency anaemia. Iron deficiency may also decrease salivary secretion and buffer capacity due to reduced salivary gland function, which may lead to dental caries. Purpose: This study aims to analyse the correlation between dental caries and serum iron (Fe) levels in the students of Mamba’ul Khoiriyati Islamiyah (MHI) Madrasa Aliyah in Bangsalsari Jember. Methods: Out of 71 students aged 15-18 years, 24 students were examined for caries with the DMF-T index and blood samples were also collected using the phlebotomy technique to assess the serum iron (Fe) level in µg/dL. The data were analysed using the Spearman’s correlation test (α = 0.05). Results: The average DMF-T score was high (7 ± 3.4) and the average serum iron (Fe) level was below normal (38 ± 11.5 µg/dL). The Spearman’s correlation test for dental caries and serum iron (Fe) levels showed significant results (p <0.05). Conclusion: The occurrence of dental caries correlates with serum iron (Fe) levels. The higher the level of serum iron (Fe), the lower the level of dental caries.

This study aimed to explore and describe the existence of pecel pithik in the tradition of Osingese tribe of Banyuwangi and its impact on the social economic welfare of the very community. Qualitative approach method was used to achieve the purpose of this research. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, note taking, and recording. Data analysis method operative in the study was descriptive qualitative method with thematic content analysis. This study has evinced that pecel pithik is a cultural asset of Osingese society, which is rooted in fundamental traditional agrarian values with selamatan, originally presented in rice fields in the form of tumpeng before harvest in the hope of good harvest and blessing. This was done to improve the society's welfare and elevate their degree. Today, pecel pithik presented at rituals