Early Detection Matters: Insights Behind Siloam Hospitals’ Free Screening Initiative
In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Siloam Hospitals is taking a proactive step to promote women’s health through a free breast cancer screening program. In a special interview with pafikutaikab.org the initiative aims to encourage early detection and raise public awareness about the importance of regular checkups — a crucial effort in a country where many breast cancer cases are still diagnosed at advanced stages.
Why Early Detection Is Crucial
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, including in Indonesia. However, when detected early, the survival rate can reach over 90 percent. The challenge, experts say, lies in the lack of awareness and access to screening facilities.
“Many women only come to the hospital when the disease has progressed, making treatment more complicated and costly,” explains Dr. Liana Pradipta, an oncologist at Siloam Hospitals. “Through this initiative, we want to remove financial and psychological barriers to screening. Early detection saves lives — it’s that simple.”
The free screening includes clinical breast examinations (CBE) and ultrasound scanning for eligible participants, performed by trained medical staff. These procedures help identify lumps or abnormalities that might not yet be visible or painful, allowing for further diagnostic steps if needed.
Empowering Women Through Awareness
Beyond the screenings, Siloam Hospitals is also hosting educational talks and consultations to empower women with knowledge about breast health. These sessions cover topics such as recognizing early symptoms, understanding risk factors, and performing breast self-examinations (BSE) at home.
“Education is just as important as the medical process,” says Dr. Liana. “We want women to feel confident about their health and to take preventive action, rather than waiting until symptoms appear.”
Participants also receive guidance on lifestyle choices that can lower cancer risk, including maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol or tobacco consumption.
Reaching Communities Beyond the City
Siloam Hospitals’ campaign extends beyond urban centers, reaching women in rural and underserved areas through mobile health units. These mobile clinics provide screenings and consultations in communities that may lack access to advanced healthcare facilities.
“Breast cancer doesn’t only affect women in cities,” says Siloam Hospitals’ Corporate Communications Manager, Maria Susanto. “Our mission is to make screening accessible for all women, regardless of their location or income. Every woman deserves the chance for early detection.”
The program has already reached thousands of women across Indonesia, with positive feedback from participants who expressed relief at having access to trusted medical care without financial burden.
A Shared Responsibility
Experts emphasize that awareness campaigns like Siloam’s should not stop at the hospital level. Families, workplaces, and local governments also play a role in encouraging women to prioritize health checkups. “Support from husbands, parents, and employers makes a big difference,” Dr. Liana adds. “When the community stands behind women’s health, early detection becomes a shared responsibility.”
A Message of Hope
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, Siloam Hospitals’ free screening initiative sends a clear message: early detection saves lives, and prevention begins with awareness.
By combining free medical services, education, and outreach, the hospital hopes to create lasting change — helping women across Indonesia face the future with confidence, strength, and the reassurance that caring for their health is both a right and a priority.
Source: Pafikutaikab
