Jakarta, February 4, 2025 – The Europe Today: Deputy Minister of Health Dante Saksono Harbuwono announced the launch of a national action plan aimed at addressing the growing incidence of cancer in Indonesia. This initiative comes in response to the rising number of cancer cases and the associated strain on the country’s healthcare system.
During the commemoration of World Cancer Day 2025 on Tuesday, Dante emphasized the severity of the issue, noting that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally and in Indonesia. With 408,661 new cancer cases and 242,988 related deaths recorded annually in the country, the government is taking immediate steps to tackle this crisis.
“In order to control the rising number of cancer cases, regular check-ups are essential. The government is working to strengthen cancer control efforts with greater focus and direction, launching the 2024–2034 National Action Plan for Cancer,” said Dante.
One of the key components of the action plan is the establishment of a national cancer care network, with Dharmais Cancer Hospital designated as the central facility responsible for overseeing cancer treatment and care nationwide.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the success rates of cancer treatment and improving patient survival in Indonesia. As part of the national strategy, the government will introduce free health screening programs, aimed at early detection and prevention of cancer, starting this year.
Dante also warned that without adequate preventive measures, the burden of cancer on the health sector could increase by more than 70 percent, placing significant pressure on society and healthcare systems. Early detection, he stressed, is crucial for improving recovery outcomes.
“There is hope in the fight against cancer, as it has been shown that up to 50 percent of cancer cases can be prevented through healthy lifestyle practices,” Dante noted. He further emphasized that early detection not only improves treatment success but also significantly increases the chances of recovery for patients.
The launch of this comprehensive cancer control plan is a critical step towards reducing cancer-related mortality in Indonesia and ensuring better health outcomes for the nation.