Free health screening helps boost life expectancy: Health Ministry

Indonesia’s Ministry of Health has highlighted the success of its Free Health Screening (CKG) program in addressing silent health threats and improving life expectancy. According to officials, the initiative has helped detect previously undiagnosed cases of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, which are major contributors to declining health outcomes. Deputy Minister of Health Dante Saksono Harbuwono emphasized that the country’s life expectancy has risen significantly since 1965, when it stood at 43 years, largely due to improvements in sanitation, healthcare infrastructure, and treatment options for infectious diseases. In a statement released on Tuesday, Harbuwono outlined how modern challenges have shifted the focus of public health from infectious diseases to degenerative and lifestyle-related conditions. He pointed to the growing prevalence of obesity linked to changes in consumer behavior, particularly the increased availability of food delivery services, which make high-calorie meals easily accessible at any hour. These factors contribute to the rising incidence of chronic diseases, which remain a barrier to further increasing life expectancy, currently estimated at around 74.5 years. Data from a recent study conducted by the Ministry of Health revealed that nearly one in eight individuals screened through the CKG program tested positive for diabetes. Of those, only about three percent were already aware of their condition, while the majority, nearly nine percent, had no prior knowledge of their illness. This underscores the importance of regular health screenings in identifying conditions before they progress to more severe stages. The CKG program aims to address these hidden health crises by enabling early detection and intervention. Officials believe this approach will reduce long-term healthcare costs and improve overall public health, aligning with Indonesia’s broader goal of achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision, a national development plan focused on economic growth, social welfare, and quality of life improvements. Maria Endang Sumiwi, Director General of Primary and Community Health, encouraged citizens to take part in annual screenings to ensure timely identification of health risks. She cited data showing that among 30 million people without hypertension who participated in the CKG program in 2025, approximately 9.2 million were re-screened in 2026. Out of these, around 1 million were diagnosed with hypertension during follow-up examinations. Similarly, among the 36 million individuals without diabetes who underwent initial screenings in 2025, 8.39 million were re-checked in 2026. Of these, 188,000 tested positive for diabetes, highlighting the rapid progression of the disease in some cases. These findings reinforce the need for continuous monitoring and proactive management of chronic conditions. The CKG program has expanded over the years, incorporating new elements such as colon cancer screening, reflecting the evolving nature of public health concerns. Recent reports indicate that the initiative has reached over 100 million Indonesians, demonstrating its widespread impact and effectiveness in promoting preventive care. Health experts stress that early diagnosis plays a crucial role in managing chronic diseases effectively. By identifying conditions at an earlier stage, patients can benefit from timely treatment and lifestyle modifications, reducing the risk of complications and improving long-term outcomes. The continued success of the CKG program depends on sustained public participation and government support to maintain its reach and relevance in addressing emerging health challenges. As the program continues to evolve, officials are working to integrate more comprehensive health assessments into future iterations. This includes expanding the range of tests offered and enhancing outreach efforts to ensure even greater coverage across the nation. With ongoing improvements and community engagement, the CKG program remains a vital tool in Indonesia’s effort to enhance public health and extend life expectancy.