Speaking at a World Cancer Day commemoration in Palu on Saturday, Deputy Governor Reny A. Lamadjido said cancer services, including surgery and chemotherapy, were being handled by qualified medical personnel and supported through the provincial “Berani Sehat” (Dare to be Healthy) program.
Under the program, the provincial government covers cancer treatment costs to ensure patients can access care without financial concerns, she said.
“We will continue to improve cancer services, including chemotherapy, which is covered by the Berani Sehat program,” Reny told the event.
She said the scheme allows Central Sulawesi residents to receive treatment at health facilities partnered with BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia’s national health insurance agency, even if patients are not yet registered or if their membership is inactive due to unpaid contributions.
The deputy governor stressed that the administration remained committed to ensuring equitable access to health care and preventing financial barriers from delaying or disrupting treatment.
Reny said World Cancer Day served as an important opportunity to raise public awareness about the need for early detection, timely and appropriate treatment, and comprehensive support for cancer patients, including mental health care and family involvement.
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She also expressed appreciation for doctors, nurses and other health workers who have accompanied cancer patients throughout their treatment and continued to provide services under challenging conditions.
According to Reny, tackling cancer requires more than medical intervention alone.
She said patients’ adherence to doctors’ recommendations, psychological resilience and strong family support were equally critical to successful treatment outcomes.
“The fight against cancer does not depend only on medicine. It also requires discipline in following medical advice, mental strength and support from family,” she said.
Addressing patients and their families, Reny urged them not to lose hope, emphasizing that a cancer diagnosis should not be seen as the end.
“Never be afraid and never lose your enthusiasm. Cancer is not the end of the world,” she said. “The most important things are enthusiasm, peace of mind and family support.”
The provincial government said it would continue to strengthen preventive efforts, expand public education campaigns and improve health service capacity as part of its broader strategy to reduce the impact of cancer in Central Sulawesi.
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Translator: Nur Amalia Amir, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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