“Smokers tend to quit once they detect issues in their lungs through screenings,” he remarked when contacted by ANTARA from Jakarta on Thursday.
Susanto highlighted that lung check-ups offered under the government’s new nationwide health program could help citizens identify disorders or diseases in their lungs.
The professor noted that medics may use various methods to examine the condition of the lungs, including questionnaires, chest X-rays, and spirometry tests.
“However, some people choose to continue their smoking habit on account of addiction. These individuals need therapy, complete with help and supervision from pulmonary specialists or other qualified experts in this field,” he remarked.
The professor, who served as chairman of the Association of Indonesian Pulmonologists (PDPI) from 2017-2014, then cautioned residents about lung problems that often accompany the habit of smoking.
He pointed out that pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are the five most common lung health issues affecting the Indonesian community.
Bearing that in mind, Susanto encouraged smokers in Indonesia to make the most of the Free Health Checks program to examine the condition of their lungs.
The Indonesian government officially rolled out the health examination initiative on Monday (February 10) at community health centers across regions, promoting early detection of diseases among citizens of all ages.
Infants are screened for congenital disorders, while children and toddlers get free growth check-ups.
Designated health centers may offer general health examinations, including lung checks, for adult residents. At the same time, senior citizens receive comprehensive exams that include bone and joint health assessments in addition to checking their health in general.
Health checks for schoolchildren and teens will be available at schools starting in July this year.
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Translator: Sean F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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