Acting Governor Teguh: Cancer Is A Challenge For The Health World, Needs Extra Understanding

Cancer Illustration/ Photo: Medicelle

JAKARTA - The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government stated that early education about cancer and improving the quality of life of cancer patients is a priority agenda that must be fought for together.

Acting Governor (Pj) Teguh Setyabudi said cancer is still a big challenge in the world of health so that education about the introduction of cancer from an early age is important.

"So, through a better understanding of cancer, it is hoped that it can accelerate prevention and more effective treatment," said Teguh, Sunday, February 9.

He also invited the people of Jakarta to be more concerned about health by implementing a healthy lifestyle, conducting routine checks for early detection and supporting medical innovation for better treatment of cancer.

Not only about early education, Teguh also conveyed the importance of encouraging cancer patients. Support from the community is also very meaningful in providing enthusiasm and strength for cancer fighters.

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) stated that the number of cancer cases in Indonesia continues to increase and is predicted to increase by more than 70 percent in 2050 if preventive measures and early detection are not strengthened.

Currently, around 400 thousand new cancer cases are detected every year, with the death toll reaching 240 thousand cases.

The Ministry of Health admits that in Indonesia, early detection of cancer is still a challenge. Many patients come in advanced conditions so that the level of medical success decreases and the cost of treatment increases.

In fact, up to 50 percent of cancer cases can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle such as maintaining a diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, avoiding alcohol and undergoing regular health checks.

As part of the national strategy, the Ministry of Health has launched the 2024-2034 Cancer National Action Plan to strengthen screening and early detection.

Especially for cervical cancer, early detection efforts are further extended, namely by screening using the DNA HPV method which is more sensitive than conventional methods.

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Health held a free cervical cancer screening during February at all Puskesmas for married women.