Finding Breast Cancer As Early As Possible

Breast cancer that is found at an early stage, when the tumor size is still small and has not spread, is more likely to be cured.  That is why, early detection of cancer is very important. Another advantage, patients with early-stage breast cancer can also avoid chemotherapy.

Based on Globocan’s estimation, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2012, the incidence of cancer in women in Indonesia was 134 per 100,000 with the most cases in women being breast cancer, which was 40 per 100,000.

Unfortunately, the majority of sufferers only seek treatment after the disease enters its final stage.

Early detection of cancer can be done simply, namely by recognizing the signs or changes in the body.  For example, seen from the presence of a lump in the breast through breast self-examination.

We can also do screening test to find cancer before symptoms appear.  If cancer cells are found, they are usually small in size and have not spread.

In women who have a high risk of cancer, those who have had cancer, there is a family history of breast cancer, or even has a genetic mutation, it is necessary to have screening tests before the age of 30.

Meanwhile, women aged 40-44 years are advised to do screening tests and mammography once a year. Women aged 45 to 54 years are advised for mammography every year. Women aged 55 years and over can do mammography every three years or once a year.