Bandung Cancer Survivors Celebrate World Cancer Day with Joy and resilience
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BANDUNG, Indonesia — On February 23, 2025, cancer survivors in Bandung gathered at teh husada Shield Clinic to commemorate World Cancer Day. The atmosphere was filled with joy and solidarity as they participated in activities demonstrating their resilience and the importance of community support in their battles against cancer. The event highlighted the ongoing fight against breast cancer,a prevalent disease in West Java,where almost one in eight cancer patients are affected.
A Day of Celebration and solidarity
The event at the Husada Shield Clinic, located on jalan Halmahera in Citarum village, was a vibrant display of solidarity and hope. Participants engaged in activities such as zumba, singing and dancing contests, and games. These activities were designed to foster a sense of community and provide a positive surroundings for individuals who have been fighting cancer for years.
For many, the day was a welcome respite from the often tough and isolating experiance of living with cancer. The chance to connect with others who understand their struggles and share in moments of joy was invaluable, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences in overcoming adversity.
Personal Stories of Strength
Ani Kartini, 60, a cancer survivor, shared her journey, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges she has faced over the past decade. “I was operated on cancer in 2015, it means it’s been 10 years. With the process of traveling up to now, up and down all kinds, the sad, disappointing, painful, I have experienced it,” Ani said, reflecting on her decade-long battle.
Despite these hardships, Ani emphasized the importance of support from organizations like the Priangan Cancer Care Foundation (PRCC) and the encouragement from fellow survivors. “One of them is because of the spirit, the cohesiveness of friends also encourages, motivates, to stay healthy and eager even tho bloody pain is very painful.I am a breast cancer, so both have been raised,” she explained, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of her journey.
Ani also noted the emotional challenges of being at home, where she frequently felt sadness and suffering. However, being with other cancer survivors helped her realize that her struggles were not unique and that she was not alone, underscoring the power of shared experiences in coping with the disease.
Alone, because he died was not because cancer but already destiny, cancer that’s just one way to die.Rather we feel more prepared as of sufferers cancer it will indeed die, but don’t know when.
Ani Kartini, Cancer survivor
ani believes that her condition has allowed her to get closer to God while continuing treatment and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “If you have a disease cancer it’s like a signal, signs. If you are healthy, you don’t know (when you die), but we can be tomorrow or the day after tomorrow,” she added, reflecting on the outlook gained through her battle with cancer.
The Prevalence of Breast Cancer in West Java
Dr. Monty P soemitro, Head of Tumor Surgery Specialist Study Programme from Padjadjaran University (Unpad), highlighted the prevalence of breast cancer in West Java. According to Dr. Soemitro,almost one in eight cancer patients in West java,including Bandung,has breast cancer,making it a significant health concern in the region.
“So it is indeed not only in Bandung, but almost all over West Java is the biggest average cancer breast. If 1: 8 means that in West Java, 3 million are likely to be affected cancer Breasts,” Dr. Soemitro stated, emphasizing the widespread impact of the disease.
Dr. Soemitro, who also coaches the Priangan Cancer Care Foundation (PRCC), pointed to lifestyle factors as significant contributors to breast cancer. “Indeed, people have sports, bicycles, 2 notes & running, and so on, but still the lifestyle of eating is also critically important.So far, the lifestyle of eating is still bad, so the hormone levels are high,” he explained, highlighting the importance of healthy lifestyle choices in preventing the disease.
Facing Cancer wiht Resilience: A Conversation on Community Support and Breast Cancer Awareness in West Java
“One in eight women in West Java will face a breast cancer diagnosis.That’s a staggering statistic that demands our attention and underscores the urgent need for community-based support and proactive healthcare strategies.”
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Anya Sharma, you’re a leading oncologist specializing in breast cancer and community health initiatives.The recent World Cancer Day event in Bandung highlighted the incredible resilience of survivors and the power of community support. Can you elaborate on the significance of these community-based initiatives in the fight against breast cancer?
Dr. sharma: Absolutely. The story from Bandung perfectly illustrates the crucial role of community support systems in battling breast cancer. For patients navigating diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, the emotional and social burdens are significant. community initiatives provide a vital safety net, offering not just practical support—like transportation to appointments or childcare assistance—but also crucial emotional support. These groups create spaces for sharing experiences, reducing feelings of isolation, and fostering hope. This sense of shared experience, as highlighted by Ani Kartini’s story, is absolutely invaluable in the often daunting journey of cancer treatment and survivorship.
Interviewer: The article mentions a high prevalence of breast cancer in West Java. What are the primary risk factors contributing to this alarming rate, and what preventative measures can individuals take?
Dr.Sharma: The high incidence of breast cancer in West Java, like many other parts of the world, is a complex issue influenced by a combination of factors.Genetic predisposition plays a role, but lifestyle choices considerably impact risk. That includes diet, with a high consumption of processed foods, saturated fats, and a lack of fruits and vegetables, being a key contributor. Lack of physical activity, alongside obesity and obesity-related conditions, further increase the risk. Delayed or absent screening, due to limited access or awareness, also significantly contributes to higher stages of diagnosis and poorer prognoses.
Thus, preventative strategies must be multifaceted:
Prioritize a healthy diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources.
Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Maintain a healthy weight: Manage weight through diet and exercise.
Early detection through screening: Mammograms are crucial for early detection, particularly for women over 40, or those with a family history of breast cancer. Self-breast exams are also vital.
* Seek timely medical attention: Don’t ignore lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes in your breast area.Prompt medical attention is crucial.
Interviewer: The article highlights the role of organizations like the Priangan Cancer Care foundation (PRCC). How essential are such support networks in providing holistic care to cancer patients and their families?
Dr. Sharma: Organizations like the PRCC are absolutely critical. They bridge a significant gap in healthcare, providing not just medical support, but also psychosocial, emotional, and often financial aid. These organizations create a community where individuals fighting cancer and their loved ones feel supported, understood, and empowered. they offer counseling, peer support groups, financial assistance for treatment, advocacy, and education. This holistic approach recognizes that cancer treatment impacts the entire family unit, and providing complete support significantly improves quality of life and overall outcomes, including emotional wellbeing and reducing the pervasive sense of isolation many sufferers experience.
Interviewer: Ani Kartini’s testimonial touched on the emotional toll of living with cancer.How can healthcare professionals and support organizations better address the psychological and emotional challenges faced by cancer patients?
dr.Sharma: Integrating psychosocial support into cancer care is paramount. Cancer treatment is physically and emotionally taxing. Many patients experience anxiety, depression, fear, and grief. Healthcare systems must incorporate mental health services into routine oncology care, providing access to psychologists, social workers, and support groups tailored to cancer patients’ specific needs. Open communication between patients, their families, and healthcare providers is crucial, allowing patients to articulate their emotional struggles without feeling judged. Emotional support, psychotherapy, and mindfulness techniques can definitely help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Interviewer: Based on your expertise,what future directions are most promising in the fight against breast cancer?
Dr. Sharma: The future of breast cancer treatment is incredibly promising. Significant advances in early detection methods, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and personalized medicine are revolutionizing treatment and outcomes.Increasing investments in research, improved access to preventative care, and heightened public awareness remain critical. Furthermore, international collaboration between researchers and healthcare professionals is expanding access to cutting-edge treatments and best practices, benefiting communities globally.The increased emphasis on holistic care, integrating emotional and physical wellbeing, which these support groups so readily provide, will undoubtedly improve the lives of breast cancer patients and empower their families in the long term.
Concluding Thought: The fight against breast cancer requires a multi-pronged approach that encompasses prevention, early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive support. community initiatives and organizations play a vital role in empowering cancer patients and their families, offering hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Let’s share this interview – together, we can strengthen the global network of support for those facing this disease. What are your thoughts? Please share your comments below!