It is important for the community to conduct early detection of breast cancer, as 70 percent of the patients detected are at an advanced stageJakarta (ANTARA) - Early detection is an effective way to prevent the risk of developing breast cancer by increasing the likelihood of curing it early, according to Prof. Dr Aru Sudoyo, chairman of the Indonesian Cancer Foundation (YKI).
"It is important for the community to conduct early detection of breast cancer, as 70 percent of the patients detected are at an advanced stage. In fact, if the disease is found at an early stage, the likelihood of healing will be much greater," the medical oncology hematologist noted as quoted from a YKI press release on Tuesday.
Early detection of breast cancer can be conducted through breast self-examination, a week to 10 days after menstruation. The examination can be conducted in six steps, first by standing up straight and then observing possible changes in the shape and surface of the breast or nipple skin and possible swelling.
Thereafter, one should raise both arms up, then bend the elbows and place hands behind the head. Push the elbows forward and observe the breasts. The elbows should then be pushed back and the shape and size of the breasts be carefully observed.
The next step is to place the hands on the waist and then lean the shoulders forward, so that the breasts dangle down and thereafter push the elbows forward and then tighten or contract the chest muscles.
Next, lift the left arm up and bend the elbow, so that the left hand holds the top of the person’s back. Use the fingertips of the right hand to palpate and press the breast area and then examine the entire left breast up to the armpit area.
Then move the hands up and down in circular motions and straight movements from the edge of the breast to the nipple and vice versa. The same movement should be repeated for the right breast.
Thereafter, both nipples should be pinched to check for any oozing fluid. If it occurs, then a doctor should be consulted.
Thereafter, in a supine position, place a pillow under the right shoulder and lift the arms up. Then, look at the right breast and do the three aforementioned movement patterns. Use the tips of the fingers to press the entire breast to the armpit area.
In addition to self-examination, early detection of breast cancer can be conducted through a mammography machine. Recently, the YKI installed the latest mammography machine called Mammomat Revelation to offer early detection services to the community.
On the other hand, Sudoyo also advised the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle in a bid to prevent cancer. People are also advised to exercise regularly and maintain an ideal body weight by eating in moderation to prevent obesity and fat deposits that can trigger cancer.
In addition, other activities that should be avoided are smoking and consumption of foods that contain carcinogens, such as preservatives, dyes, and processed meat. It is advisable to choose a healthy diet comprising vegetables and fruits.
In Indonesia, the number of new cases of breast cancer in 2020 had reached 65,858 of which 22,430 deaths were reported, according to GLOBOCAN 2020 data.
Based on the number of cases, the YKI is keen to participate in providing education as well as disseminating information to the public on the steps to prevent and treat breast cancer from the start through various webinars that present experienced resource persons.
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Translator: Lia Wanadriani Santosa, Katria
Editor: Sri Haryati
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