Syphilic Cases Increase, House Of Representatives Commission IX: The Importance Of Education On Health Protection For Reproduction In The Community

JAKARTA - Member of Commission IX DPR RI Netty Prasetiyani Aher responded to data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health which recorded more than 23,000 syphilic cases throughout 2024. Netty assessed that the increase in syphilic cases was proof of weak state protection and lack of education to the public.

For information, syphilics is a sexually transmitted infection (IMS) disease that is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. This disease is caused by the infection of the Treponema pallidum bacteria, which enter and infect a person through wounds in the vagina, penis, anus, lip, or mouth.

"The spike in syphilic cases is not only a medical issue, but also a weak signal of state protection for the nation's generation," said Netty, Saturday, June 21.

"Slow education, limited access to health services, and the lack of family resilience are one of the three causes that need to be addressed together," he continued.

Previously, the Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) revealed an increase in the number of cases of sexually transmitted infection (IMS) among generation Z or Gen Z, with an age range of 15-24 years dominated by syphilic cases.

The Ministry of Health noted that the increase in cases of IMS disease has been recorded in the last three years. The latest data in 2024, the Ministry of Health noted, there were more than 4,500 cases in the age range of 15-19 years. Meanwhile, for the age range of 20-24 years, the total number of cases in 2024 will reach 14,604.

This figure decreased slightly compared to the previous year which reached 15,170 cases. However, when compared to the previous year, which only recorded 1,529 cases, syphilic cases experienced a 10-fold increase.

"This figure reflects the urgency of reproductive health protection that must be carried out comprehensively, systematically, and based on national culture," said Netty.

Netty also highlighted the Ministry of Health's statement that all people can get syphilic, even those who are not classified as high-risk sexual behavior. According to Netty, the Ministry of Health's statement emphasized that overcoming sexually transmitted diseases cannot be limited to moral appeals.

"But it has to go through concrete steps," said Netty.

Therefore, the West Java VIII electoral district legislator encouraged the government to immediately take strategic steps. Among them, strengthening reproductive health education in schools and communities with value-friendly material, not vulgar, and according to the character of the Indonesian nation.

"Then provide free and secret syphilic early detection services at Puskesmas and primary services, so that people are not afraid to check themselves," said Netty.

The government is also asked to strengthen family resilience and protection for children and adolescents. "This is so that they have a value holder and an environment that supports the choice of healthy living," he said.

In addition, Netty emphasized the need for inter-ministerial synergy and community leaders to build social movements that prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases through preventive and cultural approaches.

"The government must be present not only when the disease explodes, but more importantly, when our children need a healthy and dignified life guide," he said.

"This is not just a matter of health, but regarding the future of the nation," concluded Netty.