70 Percent Of Breast Cancer Cases Detected In Advanced Stadiums

JAKARTA - Seven out of ten breast cancer cases in Indonesia were only detected in the advanced stage. According to the Global Cancer Observatory (2022), more than 400,000 new cancer cases were recorded in Indonesia, and for many women, diagnosiss came when treatment options were increasingly limited. In fact, research shows that early detection can increase survival rates by up to 98 percent.

Although this figure is worrying, many women are still hesitant -- or even avoiding -- examinations. The reasons vary: lack of awareness, social stigma, or fear of medical procedures itself. In many communities in Indonesia, breast checks are still considered taboo.

Some women feel ashamed, while others worry about becoming a burden for their families if diagnosed with serious illness. Tragically, this doubt causes 70 percent of new cases to be discovered when the disease is growing further.

Responding to this challenge, Fujifilm Indonesia and MedicElle Clinic launched the "Cancer Free Forwards a Healthy Family" program, which provides free 3D emmography for 100 women. The examination was carried out on November 1 with results announced on November 23, along with a health education session.

For many women, fear of pain is one of the main reasons to avoid mammography. However, thanks to advances in medical technology, this experience has now become much more comfortable. Fujifilm Indonesia's artificial intelligence (AI)-based digital emmography technology not only reduces discomfort, but also accelerates the detection process with high accuracy and lower radiation exposure.

"We believe that health services are the basic rights of everyone," said Masato Yamamoto, President Director of PT Fujifilm Indonesia, in his statement, Friday, March 7.

"Indonesia's film is here not only with technology, but also as partners in increasing awareness of breast cancer. It's sad that 70% of cases are still detected late. We want to change that by making inspections more accessible and no longer scary for women," he added.

Ratna Setyaharajoe is one of the women who took part in this program. Sitting in the waiting room of MediElle Clinic, she looks calm, even though in the heart anxiety is tucked away. Having a history of cancer in the family makes her more aware of the risks she faces.

"We often talk about breast cancer. I just want to make sure my body is healthy," he said with a soft smile.

After completing the examination, Ratna shared her experience of undergoing a mammographic examination.

"I feel it is important to disseminate this information. Many women still don't know about the importance of routine breast checks," said Ratna, who is excited to be a motivator for her friends at the office to do the same.

"I don't even have to change my own position. The tools are tailored. This makes it very easy for me in the examination process. There is no awkward feeling, no painful pain like before," said Ratna, who feels very grateful for the comfort provided by Fujifilm Indonesia's health technology.

For Ratna and many other women, this program is not just a free check, but also an opportunity to take control of their health without fear. The presence of a female medical team at MediElle Clinic ensures a safe and comfortable environment, so that women can undergo an examination without feeling awkward and worried.

Fujifilm Indonesia continues to expand this initiative. In addition to collaborating with the Medic Elle Clinic, the company is also working with various leading health institutions in Indonesia to increase access to early detection. Several important partnerships that have been established include Mandaya Puri Hospital and Udayana University, where free checks and health education sessions are held to reach more women.

Handra Effendi, Director of PT Fujifilm Indonesia, emphasized the importance of collective action in this mission.

"Collaboration with various stakeholders is clear evidence of our commitment to ensure more women have access to early detection of breast cancer," he said.

In the end, early detection is not only about fighting cancer, but also about giving more women the opportunity to live a healthier and more quality life. It's about ensuring that no woman has to wait too long, feel too scared, or face this struggle alone.