JAKARTA - Fear and discomfort are often the reason why women are reluctant to undergo cervical cancer screening. However, the results of a pilot project in East Java, which were presented by the Ministry of Health and partners recently, brought good news: the HPV DNA self-sampling method has proven to be very well accepted by the community because it is considered more private and simple.
Unlike conventional methods, HPV DNA testing has several advantages for women:
Can be done by yourself (Self-Sampling): Women can take samples independently (such as in Surabaya which reached 5,500 people), so as to reduce embarrassment or fear when examined by medical personnel.
More Accurate on a Molecular Level: Detecting the presence of HPV virus directly on its genetic material, providing more precise results for future cancer risk.
Laboratory Efficiency: With an automation system, the laboratory can process up to 96 samples per day quickly, so patients don't have to wait long to get results.
Maryjane Lacoste, Country Director of Jhpiego Indonesia, emphasized that the key to the success of this method is not only in technology, but also in community support.
"HPV DNA screening requires broad support. Collaboration between health workers, cadres, and communities is the key to making this program effective and sustainable for Indonesian women," he explained.
Through the results of this study, the Ministry of Health recommends expanding the self-sampling method and strengthening laboratory capacity throughout Indonesia. With proper early detection, the target of eliminating cervical cancer in 2030 is no longer an impossible thing to achieve.
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