Lung cancer diagnoses in Indonesia are occurring at a younger age than in other countries, and cases are increasing among women who have never smoked, according to a specialist. This trend highlights the need for increased awareness and early detection efforts for this deadly disease.
“In Indonesia, the age of lung cancer patients is 10 years younger compared to abroad. The numbers are also increasing, especially among young women who do not smoke,” said Sita Laksmi Andarini, a thoracic oncology subspecialist, during a media conference commemorating World Cancer Day in South Jakarta.
Dr. Andarini, a graduate of the University of Indonesia, explained that lung cancer is the most common cancer in Indonesian men and ranks third overall in new cases. Globally, the disease remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
While exposure to cigarette smoke remains the primary risk factor, the risk is also elevated by exposure to asbestos, air pollution – particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) – a history of tuberculosis, and a family history of the disease.
“The highest risk is exposure to cigarette smoke. By avoiding cigarette smoke, about 80 percent of chronic diseases, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, can be prevented,” she stated.
A concerning trend is that approximately 90 percent of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. This progression from early to late stage can occur rapidly, within just one to one and a half years.
Early-stage lung cancer offers significantly better treatment options. Conversely, at a later stage, therapy becomes more complex and substantially more expensive.
Dr. Andarini emphasized the distinction between screening and early diagnosis. Screening is performed before symptoms appear in high-risk groups, while early diagnosis occurs after symptoms are experienced.
In Indonesia, screening is recommended for high-risk individuals aged 45 to 71, including active smokers, passive smokers, those who quit smoking less than 15 years ago, and individuals with a family history of lung cancer. The examination is performed using a low-dose CT scan without contrast.
According to Dr. Andarini, early detection is not only about improving survival rates but also about cost-effectiveness.
“Even a one-stage difference can increase treatment costs many times over,” she said. (ant)
