Jakarta, May 30 -- The Health Ministry has included screening for colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, in the National Free Health Checkup (CKG) Program for individuals aged 45 and over who are considered at high risk.

"Our multi-layered approach begins with the Asia Pacific colorectal screening questionnaire, followed by a digital rectal exam and a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) for high-risk individuals," Deputy Minister of Health Dante Saksono Harbuwono said on Saturday.

He acknowledged that colorectal cancer is a national health challenge, as the majority of patients present to health facilities in advanced stages.

"If 100 colorectal cancer patients come to our health facilities today, more than 70 of them will arrive in ...