Lung Cancer in Indonesia Affects Younger People and Non-Smoking Women: Here are the Causes
The trend of lung cancer cases in Indonesia shows a concerning shift. The latest data in 2026 reveals that the age of lung cancer patients in the country tends to be 10 years younger compared to the average patient abroad. Ironically, the surge in cases is now also found in the group of non-smoking women.
Doctor and Thoracic Oncology Subspecialist, Sita Laksmi Andarini, stated that the phenomenon of lung cancer appearing in younger people and non-smokers is a serious alarm for the national health system.
“In Indonesia, the age of lung cancer is 10 years younger compared to abroad. The numbers are also increasing, especially among non-smoking women and young people,” said Dr. Sita during a media conference commemorating World Cancer Day 2026 in South Jakarta, Wednesday (February 25, 2026).
Although exposure to cigarette smoke remains the main risk factor (contributing about 80%), Dr. Sita explained that there are several other “silent killer” factors that trigger cancer in those who do not smoke:
The most crucial thing in handling lung cancer in Indonesia is the delay in diagnosis. About 90-95 percent of patients only seek medical help when they are already in the advanced stage (Stage 4).
“The progression from the early stage to the advanced stage can happen very quickly, in just one to one and a half years,” added Dr. Sita. In the early stages, the chances of recovery are much higher with more efficient costs. Conversely, in the advanced stage, therapy becomes very complex and expensive in Rupiah.
Given the emergence of cases at a younger age, experts recommend screening for high-risk groups aged 45 to 71. Screening is carried out using Low-Dose CT Scan (LDCT) without contrast to detect lumps or anomalies in the lungs before clinical symptoms appear.
Early detection is not only about the chance of survival, but also about the efficiency of treatment costs. If you have a family history of lung cancer or are exposed to high levels of pollution, immediately consult a doctor. (H-3)