Jakarta, October 17, 2025 - "Prevention is better than cure" is a widely held sentiment. With the ever-increasing pace of the economy and social demands, good health has certainly become the greatest investment for a sustainable life.

However, despite our efforts to maintain health, modern life, with its daily comforts and conveniences, often presents its own unique challenges. One of the diseases that frequently threatens our health in this modern era is cancer.

Ultimately, prevention begins in our immediate environment and with our individual lifestyles. Therefore, to provide a deeper understanding of cancer and its prevention, the Dian Nusantara University Student Executive Board (BEM UNDIRA), in coordination with the Indonesian Cancer Care Foundation (YPKI), held an in-person seminar at the Tanjung Duren Campus of Dian Nusantara University, West Jakarta. The seminar was open not only to educators but also to students.

According to Ms. Bunga, a speaker from YPKI, cancer is a dangerous disease that can not only appear unexpectedly but is also one of the deadliest diseases worldwide. She stated that between 2018 and 2022, there were approximately 8.1 to 9.6 million cancer cases in Indonesia alone.

From a medical perspective, cancer is a disease caused by the transformation of normal cells into abnormal cells. This fundamental change can be triggered by a combination of factors, ranging from hereditary (genetic) factors and unhealthy lifestyles to external environmental exposures like radiation and harmful chemicals.

She stated that cancer can affect people of all ages and genders. It can start from the smallest issue and worsen if ignored. She then explained that three types of cancer require special attention: Prostate Cancer, Uterine Cancer, and Breast Cancer.

“Cancer often begins with a benign tumor phase, an abnormal cell growth whose symptoms may be so insignificant that they are often overlooked. However, if left without medical treatment, the tumor can potentially transform into a malignant one, which is far more destructive. A malignant cancer not only attacks the local area but can also spread to other organs throughout the body,” she remarked.

Various medical steps can be taken to combat cancer, including early detection through specific tests like the PSA test and Pap Smear, preventive measures such as the Gardasil 9 vaccination, and primary therapies like chemotherapy.

However, for those who cannot fully undergo this series of medical treatments, or whose physical condition cannot tolerate intensive therapies like chemotherapy, there are several natural treatment options to help minimize the development of tumor cells.

One popular natural approach is to utilize the antioxidant power of herbal plants. For example, White Turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria) has long been studied for its high concentration of anticarcinogenic (cancer-inhibiting) properties, reportedly up to 95%. The plant can be dried, ground into a powder, and then brewed and mixed into drinks.

It is hoped that with today's awareness session on cancer, the knowledge gained will be beneficial in supporting the long-term, sustainable health of all students and educators at UNDIRA.