Jakarta (Lampost.co) – World Cancer Observation Data in 2020 In Indonesia there were 36,633 new cases and 21,003 cervical cancer deaths in 2020. This figure shows that there are 88 new cases and more than 50 cervical cancer deaths every day in Indonesia.
This fact makes cervical cancer a cancer with the second highest incidence and mortality after breast cancer in Indonesia. Therefore, cervical cancer education is needed for the community, especially women, to raise awareness of the importance of preventing and conducting cervical cancer screening as early as possible.
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Cervical cancer can actually be prevented by recognizing the symptoms. Doctor Cindy Rani, a specialist in gynecology and gynecology, explained that initially cervical cancer often caused no symptoms, so it was only detected after it entered an advanced stage.
However, there are common symptoms of cervical cancer to watch out for, including abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, increased frequency of urination, fatigue, pain during intercourse, and blood in the urine.
“Unfortunately, women are often still afraid to exercise control due to the stigma and myths that circulate, for example, they fear being labeled as lovers of partner switching. In fact, even if they have only one sexual partner, they still have the potential to contract HPV if their partner is infected with HPV, “she said on Wednesday November 2, 2022.
“In addition, hereditary history, unhealthy lifestyle, use of birth control pills, as long as there is no protection from HPV vaccination, are also major factors causing cervical cancer,” he said.
Responding to the many myths in society about HPV vaccination that will cause side effects and fertility, internal medicine specialist and vaccinologist Dr. Dirga Sakti Rambe explained that before understanding the concept of vaccination as an effort to prevent infection from a disease, people need to understand the reason behind vaccination.
“It is undeniable that the group of people who have not been vaccinated in Indonesia is still quite large. People who are not vaccinated must first be sick or infected, then have the antibodies. Obviously this is not something you want. Diseases including cervical cancer, “he said.
“Currently, the HPV vaccine is available in many hospitals and clinics, of both types bivalent neither quadrivalent. I strongly encourage the public to proactively discuss with medical staff to ensure maximum protection from the vaccine they receive, “she said.
Cancer artist and friend, Melanie Subono shares her experience fighting cervical cancer at a relatively young age. “That moment I will never forget because it continues to be a reminder to take care of myself and also of others around. Today’s health innovations are growing, even deadly diseases can be prevented. Now I can say that I am quite firm in reminding family and friends to get vaccinated against HPV immediately, especially for those who are unmarried and sexually active, and to have regular checkups. PAP test to prevent and detect HPV infection early. In addition, a healthy lifestyle and safe and healthy sex must also be considered, “said Melanie.
Medical Director of MSD Indonesia, dr. Mellisa Handoko Wiyono said that since she started operating in Indonesia, MSD has consistently provided education, especially to women, on cervical cancer prevention.
“We believe that strong collaboration between MSD Indonesia, the Ministry of Health, health experts and the community will strengthen our joint efforts to protect public health, which is also in line with the President’s ideals,” he said.
Muharram Candra Lugina
