Malang, (malangkota.go.id) – The World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 released cancer data in Indonesia. The results are that cancer is still the biggest health problem in Indonesia with 400 thousand new cases and 230 thousand deaths. Data from the Malang City Health Office (Dinkes) shows that the number of breast cancer and cervical cancer in 2021 dominates.
"The number of breast cancer cases is 360 cases, an increase of one case compared to 2020. Next, cervical cancer last year was 50 cases," said the Head of the Prevention and Control Section of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health of the Malang City Health Office, Muhammad Zamroni.
Zamroni said, it was less compared to 2020 with 77 cases. Many occur in the productive age group, namely between 15-59 years. The main cause of cancer is genetic changes (mutations) in cells, so genetic mutations will make cells abnormal.
"Actually, the body has its own mechanism to destroy these abnormal cells. If this mechanism fails, the abnormal cells will grow uncontrollably," he added.
Furthermore, Zamroni revealed that in an effort to reduce the number of cancer cases, the Malang City Health Office continues to make various efforts. For example, providing education through various media and increasing public awareness to carry out early detection of non-communicable diseases (PTM), including cancer. According to him, a healthy lifestyle also has a great influence on health.
"Let's implement CERDIK or Regular health checks, Eliminate cigarette smoke, Exercise diligently, Balanced diet, Get enough rest, and Manage stress well. Cancer can be cured if detected as early as possible and does not reach an advanced stage," he said.
The Malang City Health Office invites the public to always be vigilant and actively check their breast health as early as possible. According to him, the public can independently do Sadari or Self Breast Examination. Meanwhile, for cervical cancer, it can be done through IVA examination at the nearest health facility.
"Public awareness of the dangers of cancer must continue to be increased. One way is by designating February 4 as World Cancer Day. Hopefully, the people of Malang City will be protected from this disease," he continued.
In 2022, the theme is 'Close the Care Gap.' This theme was chosen because of the fact that there are still many inequities in cancer care around the world. Some inequalities that often become barriers to getting cancer treatment, such as income, education, location and discrimination based on ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and lifestyle.
"In relation to that, all parties around the world are expected to have awareness of the importance of equalizing cancer care without discriminating against race, ethnicity, religion, and others," he concluded. (ari/ram)
