Deputy Health Minister highlights importance of health checks for teenagers and children

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono has emphasised the importance of health checks for early detection, including among teenagers and children. Dante highlighted that diabetes is no longer confined to the elderly but is increasingly affecting teenagers and children. “Various studies show that reduced physical activity, insufficient sleep, and high consumption of sugar, fat, and salt are increasing the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases,” Dante said while opening the Canisius Health Expo at Canisius College Jakarta on Sunday. According to Dante, complications from diabetes in teenagers tend to progress more rapidly, leading many to require dialysis, heart disease, or even death. During the event, Dante praised the Canisius Health Expo 2026, where alumni and attendees can access free health checks. He hopes the event will raise public awareness about the importance of regular health screenings. The event, part of Canisius College Alumni Day 2026, offers free medical consultations, health checks, educational talks, and a spectacle donation programme for teachers and education staff. Canisius Health Expo committee chair Dr Sigit Dewanto said the event was organised due to growing concerns over rising chronic disease cases. He also noted limited access to healthcare services and conflicting health information as key concerns. Echoing Dante, he cited examples of young people suffering from heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. “On the other hand, access to specialist medical consultations and credible health information is uneven. Through the Canisius Health Expo 2026, we aim to create a more open, friendly, and accessible health space for the public,” Sigit said. At the Canisius Health Expo, visitors and alumni can receive free consultations from various specialist fields. Further, Canisius Health Expo event division chair Dr Wishnu Widodo said the event was designed as a cross-sector health collaboration space. Several Kanisius alumni who are specialist doctors are directly involved, collaborating with healthcare institutions and community groups. “We hope this event will raise public awareness about disease prevention, healthy lifestyles, and easier access to medical consultations,” Wishnu said.