Cervical cancer has long been a serious health issue for women, particularly in Indonesia. With over 36,000 new cases and 21,000 deaths reported by Global Cancer Today (GLOBOCAN) in 2022, cervical cancer poses a significant threat that must be addressed promptly. One of the primary causes is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that spreads through sexual contact and often remains asymptomatic until it is too late to detect.

 

The Cervical Cancer Situation in Indonesia

According to GLOBOCAN data, cervical cancer ranks as the second most common type of cancer among women in Indonesia. This alarming statistic has led the Indonesian government to focus its efforts on this disease, particularly by campaigning for the importance of early detection. However, low public awareness regarding the need for regular screenings remains a significant barrier to effective management of the disease. Data from the Ministry of Health reveals that in 2020, only 9.35% of women in Indonesia underwent cervical cancer screening, far below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 70%.

This situation has prompted the government to take more decisive action by launching the National Cervical Cancer Elimination (NCCE) Plan for Indonesia 2023-203. Through this plan, the government aims to enhance screening coverage and early detection by utilizing HPV DNA testing, which has proven to be more accurate in detecting the presence of HPV before abnormal cells develop into cancer.

Why HPV DNA Testing is the Preferred Choice

HPV DNA testing is regarded as the most modern and effective method for detecting cervical cancer. Compared to traditional tests like Pap smears and IVA, this test is more accurate because it can detect the presence of HPV at an early stage, even before any cellular changes occur. This allows for earlier medical intervention, significantly increasing the chances of recovery.

With HPV DNA testing, women do not need to undergo screening as frequently as they do with Pap smears. While Pap smears require screening every three years, HPV DNA tests can be conducted every five to ten years. This is due to the higher sensitivity of HPV DNA tests in detecting cervical cancer risk, meaning a negative result from this test provides a longer guarantee regarding cervical health.

 

The National Cervical Cancer Elimination (NCCE) Plan and the Implementation of HPV DNA Testing in Indonesia

The National Action Plan (RAN) for Cervical Cancer Elimination implemented by the Indonesian Ministry of Health demonstrates the government's commitment to tackling cervical cancer. In the first phase (2023-2027), the government aims to reach 70% of women aged 30-69 to undergo screening using HPV DNA testing as the primary method. Subsequently, in the second phase (2028-2030), this coverage is expected to increase to 75%, with screening occurring every ten years.

The RAN also includes efforts to strengthen health infrastructure to ensure that the necessary tools and technology are accessible to all, including those in remote areas. The government plans to expand partnerships, particularly with local companies, to ensure the smooth supply chain and development of HPV DNA testing while guaranteeing the safety and sensitivity of all utilized tools.

Nusantics and Innovations in HPV DNA Testing

As part of the effort to support government programs, Indonesian biotechnology companies like Nusantics are involved in developing accurate HPV DNA testing tools. Nusantics has introduced the PathoScan hrHPV qPCR Kit, which features an exceptionally high sensitivity level of up to 96.55%. This test can detect 14 types of high-risk HPV, including HPV-16 and HPV-18, which are the primary causes of cervical cancer.

Nusantics continues to innovate to ensure that this early detection service is more widely accessible to the public. One such innovation is the use of urine samples as an alternative to cervical sample collection. With this option, women who are uncomfortable with conventional methods can now undergo screening in a more comfortable, easy, and worry-free manner.

Early detection through HPV DNA testing offers significant hope in reducing cervical cancer cases in Indonesia. With advancing technology and support from various stakeholders, including biotechnology companies like Nusantics, Indonesian women now have broader access to convenient and accurate screening services. This is expected to better prepare Indonesia in combating cervical cancer and create a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future.

Sources:

1. Ekawati, F. M., Listiani, P., Idaiani, S., At Thobari, J., & Hafidz, F. (2024). Cervical cancer screening program in Indonesia: is it time for HPV-DNA tests? Results of a qualitative study exploring the stakeholders’ perspectives. BMC Women's Health, 24:125. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-024-02946-y

2. Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia. (2021). Profil Kesehatan Indonesia 2021.

3. Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia. (2023). Rencana Aksi Nasional (RAN) Eliminasi Kanker Leher Rahim di Indonesia Tahun 2023-2030. Retrieved from https://kemkes.go.id/id/national-cervical-cancer-elimination-plan-for-indonesia-2023-2030

4. World Health Organization. (2021). WHO recommends DNA testing as a first choice screening method for cervical cancer prevention. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/11-09-2021-who-recommends-dna-testing-as-a-first-choice-screening-method-for-cervical-cancer-prevention

5. World Health Organization. (2022). Comprehensive cervical cancer control: A guide to essential practice. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240014107