National Hospital Provides Vitamin A to Hundreds of Patients and Donates Toys to Children in Care

SURABAYA – There are two special moments observed every February. First, February is recognized as Vitamin A Month. Second, it also marks World Cancer Day. National Hospital took part in commemorating both important occasions.

National Hospital distributed hundreds of Vitamin A supplements to the community. The distribution took place over three days, from February 3 to 5, 2026, at the Ang Kang Hoo Auditorium, National Hospital. The administration of Vitamin A was guided by pediatric specialists and nurses from National Hospital.

Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of National Hospital Surabaya, Alexander Ang, emphasized that the activity reflects the hospital’s tangible commitment to supporting the health of Indonesian children.

“Patients can also receive Vitamin A during their visits to the outpatient clinic when consulting with pediatric specialists. We are committed to giving the best for Indonesia’s children,” said Alexander Ang during the event on Tuesday (February 3).

The Coordinator of the Vitamin A Supplementation Program at National Hospital Surabaya, dr. Achmad Yuniari Heryana, Sp.A, familiarly known as dr. Boy, explained that routine Vitamin A supplementation according to age is crucial for children’s health.

“Vitamin A supplementation is a simple preventive measure, yet it has a significant impact on children’s health, especially during early stages of life,” dr. Boy explained.

According to him, Vitamin A provides many vital benefits, including maintaining eye health, boosting the immune system, and supporting optimal growth and development.

“Vitamin A helps children avoid illness and strengthens their ability to fight infections. Its benefits are extensive—not only for eye health, but also for children’s overall growth and development,” added the pediatrician, who is a Fellow of Pediatric Endocrinology at FK-UI/RSCM Jakarta and is currently pursuing subspecialty training in Pediatric Endocrinology at Dr. Sutomo Regional Hospital, Surabaya.

He added that the free Vitamin A supplementation program is a routine agenda of National Hospital, conducted twice a year—every February and August—in accordance with government recommendations.

Director of National Hospital Surabaya, dr. Hendera Henderi, Sp.OG, MHPM, stated that the program represents a long-term investment in the future of Indonesia’s children.

“Vitamin A is extremely important for children’s lives, especially for eye health. In today’s gadget-driven era, eye health must be carefully maintained,” dr. Hendera explained.

He further noted that two types of Vitamin A capsules are provided based on age: blue capsules for infants aged 6–11 months, and red capsules for children aged 12–59 months.

“In addition to eye health, Vitamin A also enhances immunity, helping children avoid illness. Especially during the current influenza season, Vitamin A plays an important role in strengthening the immune system,” he said.

In addition to the Vitamin A distribution, National Hospital also invited the public to donate toys. Suitable and playable toys will be distributed to orphanages and pediatric cancer patients. (National Hospital)