Breast cancer detection and treatment approaches in Indonesia

Medical experts at MRCCC Siloam Semanggi emphasize the critical importance of early breast cancer detection to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Adityawati Ganggaiswari, Hospital Director, noted that many patients still present at hospitals only when the cancer has reached advanced stages. She recommends that women perform monthly breast self-examinations (SADARI) to identify changes such as lumps, alterations in shape or size, skin changes, inverted nipples, or unusual discharge.

Treatment must be highly individualized based on the specific subtype of the cancer, tumor characteristics, and the disease stage. Dr. Jeffry Beta Tenggara explained that subtypes include Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2-positive, and triple-negative. Determining these characteristics through biopsies and further testing is essential for selecting appropriate therapies, which may include chemotherapy to shrink tumors before surgery.

Beyond medical intervention, healthcare leaders stress the need for a multidisciplinary approach and strong psychological support from families to improve the quality of life for patients undergoing diagnosis and treatment.