UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has expanded its public health outreach with a new innovation to treat infant jaundice, or hyperbilirubinemia. In partnership with the Banyuwangi Regency Government, UNAIR has developed a phototherapy device called the Airlangga Bilirubin Sun (Airbilisun).
The project team includes Dr. Mahendra Tri Arif Sampurna, Sp.A (K), Ph.D.; Prof. Dr. Irwanto, Sp.A (K); and Prof. Dr. Martono Tri Utomo, Sp.A (K). They were joined by Dr. Andi Hamim Zaidan, Ph.D.; Valentinus Mahendra Aron Quendangan, S.T.; Syah Reza Budi Azhar, S.Tr.Kes; and Zida Husnina, S.K.M., M.P.H.
Introduction of Airbilisun
The device was formally introduced on Saturday (Aug. 23, 2025) at Blambangan Regional Hospital in Banyuwangi, where UNAIR and the local government hosted a training session for 50 pediatricians, community health doctors, and neonatal nurses. The session provided both an overview and practical training in how to operate the device.
Explaining its function, Dr. Sampurna said the Airbilisun uses an optical filter panel to block harmful UV-A, UV-B, and infrared rays while allowing safe blue light to pass through. The bilirubin in an infant’s skin absorbs the blue light, accelerating its breakdown.
“This process lowers bilirubin levels, prevents jaundice from worsening, and protects babies from the risks of skin damage or cancer caused by direct sunlight,” he said.
He added that the device was inspired by technology developed by Prof. Henk Vreeman of Stanford University, a specialist in phototherapy lamps. “The difference is that we adapted it to local needs. The patented component is the optical filter, while the frame is made simple and comfortable for infants,” he explained.
Community response and outlook
For now, UNAIR has donated two Airbilisun units to the Banyuwangi Regency Government. Deputy Regent Mujiono welcomed the innovation, calling it part of the region’s commitment to child health. “Banyuwangi can be a pilot project for Airbilisun. Our government is ready to support it, and we hope this tool will serve families across the community,” he said.
Prof. Dr. Soetojo, Dean of UNAIR’s Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) at the Banyuwangi campus, also praised the effort. “UNAIR has created a specialized and affordable device that helps infants with jaundice recover safely,” he said.
Author: Ahza Riga Falimbani
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
