The former child singer from the 1970s, Puput Novel, passed away after battling breast cancer for about three years. She was diagnosed with the disease in 2021. Her family stated that despite undergoing various treatments, complications from the disease worsened her condition. Puput breathed her last on Sunday, September 8, 2024, in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta.
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer experienced by women worldwide. Although it can occur in men, cases in women are far more common. Understanding the causes and how to detect breast cancer is essential to support early detection and appropriate treatment.
According to the latest data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), it is projected that in 2024, there will be 20 million new cancer cases worldwide, resulting in 9.7 million deaths. The majority of cases will be attributed to ten types of cancer, with lung cancer (12.4%) ranking as the most prevalent, followed by breast cancer (11.6%), colorectal cancer (9.6%), prostate cancer (7.3%), and stomach cancer (4.9%). Lung cancer, the leading cause of death among men, is closely linked to high cigarette consumption, particularly in Asia. On the other hand, breast cancer poses a significant threat to women globally.
Breast cancer is among the most widespread forms of cancer in Indonesia, alongside cervical, lung, colorectal, and liver cancer. Data from the World Health Organization's Globocan report indicates that in 2020, there were 396,914 new cancer cases in Indonesia, resulting in 234,511 deaths. Shockingly, 70% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, as many women tend to overlook early symptoms such as lumps or changes in the breast. This delay in diagnosis leads to more complex and costly treatments, alongside an increased risk of mortality during advanced stages.
Causes of Breast Cancer
There are several factors that can increase a person's risk of developing breast cancer, although the exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood. Here are some of the main risk factors that may play a role:
Genetic Factors: Around 5-10% of breast cancer cases are related to inherited genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer are at higher risk.
Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases found in women over 50 years old.
Hormones and Reproduction: Factors such as the use of post-menopausal hormone therapy, early menstruation, late menopause, not having children, or having a first child after age 30 can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Lifestyle and Environment: Obesity, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and radiation exposure are also associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
How to Detect Breast Cancer?
Detecting breast cancer early is crucial for increasing the chances of recovery. There are several methods for detecting breast cancer:
Breast Self-Examination (BSE): Women can perform BSE at home by feeling their breast area for lumps or unusual changes. It is recommended to do BSE every month, a few days after menstruation.
Mammography: Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breast that can detect breast cancer even before symptoms appear. It is recommended for women aged 40 years and older, or younger if they have high-risk factors.
Breast Ultrasound: This imaging test is often used for women with dense breast tissue or if something suspicious is found on mammography. It helps distinguish between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses in the breast.
Breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used as an additional detection method for women at high risk, such as those with the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation. MRI provides more detailed images of breast tissue.
Biopsy: If a lump or other abnormality is found, the doctor may recommend a biopsy, which involves removing a sample of tissue from the breast to examine under a microscope to determine if the tissue is cancerous.
It's important to understand that not all breast lumps are cancerous, but early detection is still crucial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, maintaining an ideal body weight, and having regular breast examinations at the K-Lab clinic, can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. To book an appointment with a doctor, please contact us on WhatsApp at 081381367915.
Sumber:
https://sehatnegeriku.kemkes.go.id/baca/blog/20240506/3045408/kanker-masih-membebani-dunia/
https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470
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