Cervical Cancer Screening Integrated into Free Health Checks

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta -  The government integrated cervical cancer screening into the Free Health Check Program. The integration aims to accelerate early detection and reduce delayed cervical cancer treatment.

In Health Ministry's release on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, this integration includes HPV DNA testing and self-sampling to increase women's participation. Self-sampling allows women to collect samples independently with assistance from health workers.

Vice Health Minister, Dante Saksono Harbuwono, underscored implementation beginning in 2026 nationwide. He stressed positive screening results will receive clear follow-up within the program.

“Integrating screening into the Free Health Check Program prevents delayed treatment and precancer progression,” he said.

Meanwhile, Noncommunicable Disease Director, Siti Nadia Tarmizi, highlighted low interest in conventional examinations. She explained HPV DNA testing addresses barriers limiting women's screening participation rates.

HPV DNA screening will also be included within medical check-up packages nationally. This follows integration of medical check-ups into the Free Health Check Program.

The Free Health Check Program is fully funded by the government nationally. BPJS Health supports referrals and advanced treatment following positive screening results cases.

Primary healthcare facilities are prepared to manage precancer lesions using thermal ablation. The government expects expanded access and participation to support cervical cancer elimination by 2030.