The Urgency of Lifestyle Medicine in Indonesia: A Preventive Approach in the Face of Budgetary Constraints

Abstract

Dasaad Mulijono*

Indonesia faces a rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as coronary artery disease (CAD), obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and cancer. At the same time, the national healthcare budget has reached its limitations. Lifestyle medicine offers a cost-effective, evidence-based approach to prevention and disease reversal. This article discusses six key lifestyle interventions: plant-based diet (PBD), exercise, stress management, smoking cessation, restorative sleep, and strong social support. Indonesia is well-positioned to adopt lifestyle medicine due to the availability of food resources, low-cost exercise programs, ample leisure time, and strong familial and social support. However, many healthcare professionals remain reluctant to embrace this approach due to a lack of training and personal lifestyle challenges. Prof. Dasaad Mulijono (DM) at Cardiology Centre Bethsaida Hospital has successfully implemented lifestyle medicine, leading the movement in Indonesia with the support of artificial intelligence (AI) in patient management and education. AI is increasingly capable of handling routine medical tasks, making doctors need to focus on empathetic, promotive, and preventive care. Publishing successful case studies is crucial for encouraging the broader adoption of lifestyle medicine among healthcare providers. The ultimate goal is not only to treat but also to prevent and reverse chronic diseases, ensuring a healthier future for Indonesia.

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