Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably.
These cells can form a lump or tumour and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body. Breast cancer can affect women of any age, although the risk generally increases with age. Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of successful treatment.
How common is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) found that it caused an estimated 694,000 deaths globally and was the most common cancer in women in 164 countries out of 186 in the year 2024. Although it is much less common in men, men can also develop breast cancer (0.5–1% of total cases).
Risk factors
Having a risk factor does not mean that a woman will definitely develop breast cancer. Some factors cannot be changed, while others are related to lifestyle.
Important risk factors include:
- Increasing age, especially after 50 years;
- A close family history of breast or ovarian cancer;
- Certain inherited gene changes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2;
- Having dense breast tissue;
- Starting menstruation at a young age or reaching menopause at an older age;
- Having no pregnancies or having a first pregnancy at an older age;
- Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause;
- Previous radiation treatment to the chest.
Signs and symptoms
Breast cancer may cause noticeable changes, but early breast cancer may have no symptoms at all. Possible warning signs include:
- A new lump or thickened area in the breast or armpit;
- A change in the size or shape of the breast;
- Changes in the skin, such as dimpling, redness, or an appearance similar to orange peel;
- A nipple that turns inward or changes in appearance;
- Unusual discharge from the nipple, particularly if it contains blood;
- Persistent pain or discomfort in one area of the breast.
Early detection
Mortality is reduced when breast cancer cases are detected and treated early. There are two components of early detection:
- Early diagnosis: being aware of signs and symptoms of breast cancer and the importance of seeking medical advice for abnormal findings; and
- Screening: the application of mammography in an apparently healthy population, usually women 50-69 years of age, to identify pre-clinical lesions before recognisable signs or symptoms appear.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage of breast cancer and the person’s overall health. It may include surgery to remove the cancer, radiotherapy to destroy remaining cancer cells, or medicines such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
Regular breast awareness and recommended screening can help detect breast cancer earlier. If you notice a new or persistent breast change, seek medical advice from our doctors in Good Practice rather than waiting for it to disappear. We can help you with the necessary further steps.
Discuss any concerns with your trusted medical practitioner. Once again: it is important that you find a clinic that you are comfortable with.
Good Practice has registered patients from 82 countries, with Iceland and Eswatini being our latest additions. Try us! Our English-speaking team implements international guidelines. Contact us at 021 7183140, info@goodpractice.co.id, or 085772721119 (for WhatsApp messages only). You can also look us up at www.goodpractice.co.id
This article was written by Dr Riomardo Albert M.Sc., our newest team member. He did his postgraduate training in Switzerland, and he is now a full-time medical professional at Good Practice.