Glides In Breasts Don't Always Mean Cancer, This Is A Doctor's Explanation

JAKARTA - Many people view lumps in the breasts as a definite sign of cancer. In fact, the reality is not that simple. Not all lumps signal ferocity, and not every breast cancer must be treated immediately with surgery.

It is important for the public to understand that a diagnosis can only be enforced through further examinations such as biopsy.

This was explained by dr. Andhika Rahman, Sp.PD-KHOM, Internal Medicine Specialist and Medical Hematology-Oncology Consultant. In an interview in Jakarta, Tuesday, he said that education about initial treatment steps is very important so that patients do not panic immediately when they find lumps.

"So not all lumps mean cancer, and not all cancers must be operated directly. biopsy examination is needed to ensure the nature of the lump," explained the graduate of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia.

Through biopsy, doctors can find out the type of cancer they are facing and determine whether patients need to undergo further therapy such as radiation, chemotherapy, or hormonal treatment. According to dr. Andhika, these steps are very dependent on the results of further examinations, including immunohistochemical tests (IHK) to assess the characteristics of tumors.

"From the examination of the JCI, we can find out what medicine is appropriate to give. Is it enough with hormone therapy, or needs to be combined with chemotherapy and radiation," he added.

Furthermore, he explained that the procedure for breast removal or breast removal is not always the main choice. If cancer can be suppressed in size first with therapy, then surgery can be minimal and there is no need to lift the entire breast tissue.

"With initial therapy, we can reduce the mass of the tumor. So, during surgery, it might be enough to partially remove it," he said.

However, dr. Andhika admits that there are still doctors who may recommend full appointment. Therefore, he encourages patients to remain critical and open discussions about existing options, especially if they want to maintain the shape of the breast.

As a preventive measure, she recommends women over the age of 40 to routinely undergo breast tests through ultrasound or mamography. If there are suspicious findings, then biopsy is carried out to determine for sure whether it is malignant cancer or not.

"Patients have the right to consider and not rush into surgery. The most important thing is to get an accurate diagnosis first," he said.