Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Indonesia. However, the number of Indonesian women undergoing breast cancer screening remains below 30 percent, despite its crucial role in enabling early detection and improving recovery outcomes.
According to data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health as of Sept. 29, 2025, at least 8.9 million women aged 30-69 years have accessed free health check-ups.
Of these, 2.8 million (32%) underwent clinical breast examinations (CBEs).
Meanwhile, 478,819 women underwent breast ultrasound examinations.
The data recorded 11,404 women with breast lumps and 1,273 suspected of having cancer.
Among those examined via ultrasound, 1,300 simple cyst cases and 3,715 complex cyst cases were identified.
Lecturer at the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), Dr. Prima Dewi Ratrikaningtyas, emphasized the importance of awareness about screening and early detection as a key measure to reduce breast cancer mortality rates.
She noted that screening plays a significant role in identifying breast cancer at an early stage when the chance of recovery is still high.
“Breast cancer is the type of cancer with the highest number of cases and deaths among women in Indonesia. Through screening and early detection, cancer can be discovered at an early stage, allowing for more effective treatment and higher recovery rates,” she explained on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025.
However, Dr. Ratrikaningtyas pointed out that low public awareness remains the biggest challenge.
Many women in Indonesia only seek medical attention once they begin to experience noticeable symptoms.
“Most people still think that if they’re not sick, there’s no need to get checked. Moreover, screening is often not seen as a priority, especially if it comes with a cost. Many women are also afraid of knowing the results if it turns out to be cancer,” she said.
To expand access and participation in screening, Dr. Ratrikaningtyas believes that a comprehensive policy framework is needed covering healthcare services, financing, and public education.
She suggested that CBE and mammography referrals should be integrated into routine services at community health centers (Puskesmas) and primary healthcare facilities.
“In addition, there should be a continuous national campaign on the importance of early detection through various media channels, as well as stronger engagement of cancer survivor communities as advocates in society,” she added.
She also emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in strengthening early detection efforts.
According to Dr. Ratrikaningtyas, partnerships among the government, professional organizations, the education sector, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector should be reinforced.
“Each sector has different capacities that can complement one another. With strong collaboration, education, and early detection programs, we can reach more women, including those in remote areas,” she said.
Furthermore, Dr. Ratrikaningtyas expressed hope that future health policies will leverage technological advancements to broaden the reach of early cancer detection services.
“Ideally, the future of early detection policies in Indonesia will move toward a more collaborative, digital, and community-based system, ensuring that every woman has equal access to healthcare services,” she concluded.
Author: Kezia Dwina Nathania
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Illustration: Freepik