Early detection is important for tackling breast tumours
Jakarta (ANTARA) – Dr. Ivan Rinaldy, a specialist in oncologic surgery at Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, says early detection through routine examinations is an important step in addressing breast tumours, as such abnormalities do not always cause pain in the early stages.
“Many patients come because they find a lump that has actually been present for quite a long time, but does not feel painful, so it is considered not dangerous. In fact, breast tumours, especially malignant ones, do not always cause pain in the early stages. Therefore, every new lump that persists should be checked,” said Dr. Ivan Rinaldy in a statement in Jakarta on Thursday.
Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) data estimated that in 2022 there were 66,271 new breast cancer cases in Indonesia with 22,598 deaths. Meanwhile, five-year prevalence reached around 209,748 people, or an estimated number of patients still alive five years after diagnosis.
He explained that breast tumours often begin with small changes that go unnoticed. Symptoms to watch for include the appearance of a new lump in the breast or armpit, changes in the shape or size of the breast, changes to the skin of the breast such as thickening or wrinkling, nipple inversion, or discharge from the nipple not related to breastfeeding.
According to him, early detection can be pursued through several examination steps. The first is SADARI or self-breast examination, which is recommended to be performed once a month, ideally on days seven to ten after the menstrual period. For women who are postmenopausal, the examination can be performed on the same date every month.
The second step is SADANIS (clinical breast examination), namely a clinical examination by a doctor to evaluate the condition of the breast and the glands in the armpit area and around the clavicle. If necessary, follow-up investigations can be conducted through ultrasound (USG), mammography, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast.
Treatment of breast tumours depends on the type and stage of disease. For benign tumours such as fibroadenoma or cyst, patients usually require only regular monitoring. However, if the lump enlarges or causes symptoms, the doctor may recommend removal via a minor operation.
Meanwhile, for malignant tumours or breast cancer, treatment is carried out through a multidisciplinary approach involving oncologic surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. Therapies can include surgery such as lumpectomy or mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and immunotherapy.
The Director of Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, Dr. Margareth Aryani Santoso, said that they provide Breast Clinic services at the Women’s Health Center to support integrated examination and management of breast tumours.
“We understand that finding a lump in the breast often causes anxiety and fear for many people. Therefore, we offer services that are not only complete in terms of facilities and medical technology but also provide a sense of safety and support for patients at every stage of examination and treatment,” she said.