The city of Batu, Indonesia, is facing increasing concerns over rising rates of breast and cervical cancer. Recent data from the Batu City Health Office indicates 56 cases of breast cancer and 6 cases of cervical cancer were recorded in the past year, prompting a renewed call for increased awareness and early detection efforts.
According to dr. Susana Indahwati, Head of the Prevention, Control of Diseases and Disaster Management at the Batu City Health Office, a significant challenge is the late stage at which many patients seek medical attention. “The main problem remains the same: awareness for early check-ups is still low. Many patients only come when they are experiencing severe symptoms,” she stated on .
Both breast and cervical cancers are considered highly treatable when detected in their early stages. However, these cancers often present without noticeable symptoms in the initial phases, contributing to delayed diagnoses.
In response, the Batu City Health Office has set an ambitious target to screen 1,300 women of reproductive age annually for breast cancer, utilizing primary healthcare facilities. This initiative will focus on education and the promotion of Breast Self-Examination (SADARI) and Clinical Breast Examination (SADANIS). These methods are considered effective in identifying abnormalities early, before they progress to more advanced stages.
“If detected earlier, treatment is simpler, the chances of recovery are higher and the risk of death can be reduced,” emphasized dr. Susana.
Efforts to prevent cervical cancer are also being strengthened through the promotion of the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (IVA) test. This affordable and accurate method detects precancerous lesions. The IVA test boasts a specificity rate of up to 98% and is readily available at basic healthcare facilities. All community health centers (Puskesmas) in Batu City have trained midwives offering the IVA service free of charge.
“People do not need to go to large hospitals. We see available at Puskesmas, quickly and without cost,” explained dr. Susana.
As a long-term preventative measure, the Batu City Health Office is also actively promoting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. This vaccine is offered free of charge to women of reproductive age and schoolgirls, providing an initial defense against cervical cancer.
dr. Susana expressed optimism that consistent early detection and ongoing education will significantly reduce the incidence and mortality rates associated with these cancers.
Concerns about the high cost of cancer treatment are being addressed through the Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) scheme, Indonesia’s national health insurance program. Erra Widayati, Head of the Batu Branch of BPJS Kesehatan (the national health insurance provider), confirmed that all cancer-related services are fully covered under the JKN scheme.
“Examinations, treatment, including chemotherapy, are all guaranteed according to procedure. Patients can focus on recovery without being burdened by high costs,” she stated.
According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States, resulting in around 4,000 deaths. Globally, cervical cancer affects 73% of women, while in India, it accounts for 27% of cancer cases among women. The CDC data, updated on , highlights the ongoing global impact of this disease.
The collaborative efforts between the Batu City Health Office, Puskesmas, and BPJS Kesehatan aim to increase public awareness of the importance of early detection. As emphasized by health officials, early detection is often the key determinant of survival in cancer cases.
Recent reports also indicate a broader trend of rising cancer rates in India, with increasing cases of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers, alongside a corresponding increase in deaths, as reported by government data presented to Parliament. Experts are urging increased awareness regarding rising breast and cervical cancer cases, with a particular focus on prevention and early detection, as highlighted in a report from The Hindu on .
