The current situation in Indonesia sees around 400,000 new cancer cases detected annually, resulting in 240,000 deaths. The number of cancer cases in the country continues to rise and is predicted to surge by more than 70% by 2050 without preventive measures and early detection. Deputy Health Minister of Indonesia, Prof. Dante Saksono Harbuwono, emphasizes that cancer is not just a medical challenge but also a complex social and economic issue. The high cost of treatment, loss of productivity, and psychological impact on patients and their families are significant burdens that need to be addressed.
### Rising Cancer Cases and Challenges in Indonesia
In Indonesia, early cancer detection remains a challenge, with many patients presenting in advanced stages, leading to decreased treatment success rates and increased healthcare costs. However, up to 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, alcohol consumption, and undergoing regular health check-ups. As part of the national strategy, the Ministry of Health has launched the National Cancer Action Plan 2024-2034 to strengthen screening and early detection efforts.
### Innovative Approaches and Initiatives
Dharmais Cancer Hospital, as the national cancer center, has introduced risk-based screening services through the innovative I-Care (Indonesia Cancer Risk Examination) program. This technology allows individuals to undergo early cancer risk detection through genetic testing using blood samples, which can identify the risk of breast, colorectal, stomach, prostate, and lung cancers. Additionally, efforts to expand cervical cancer early detection are progressing with screening using the more sensitive HPV DNA method compared to conventional methods.
Breast cancer and cervical cancer are the most prevalent types of cancer in Indonesia. Therefore, expanding public access to screening services is essential to enable more widespread early detection. The government also continues to promote HPV vaccination for girls aged 11-12 to prevent cervical cancer early. This program has been integrated into the School Children’s Immunization Month (BIAS) and is continuously expanding its coverage.
### Community Engagement and Support
In addition to medical approaches, the government is encouraging all sectors of society to play an active role in cancer control efforts. Stigma against cancer patients often hinders early detection and treatment. Moral support, empathy, and care from the community are crucial to help patients undergo treatment more effectively. Through routine screening, healthy lifestyles, and collaboration from all parties, the incidence and mortality rates of cancer can be reduced.
Prevention is always better than cure. Start with a healthy lifestyle and regularly undergo health check-ups,” advises Ani Ruspitawati, Head of the Jakarta Health Department.
By implementing these strategies and initiatives, Indonesia can work towards reducing the burden of cancer and improving the overall health and well-being of its population. It is crucial for individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to collaborate effectively to address the growing challenge of cancer in the country.
