Breast cancer is the most common dangerous disease affecting women in Indonesia. According to the Global Burden of Cancer Study (GLOBOCAN) by the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been 65,858 breast cancer cases in Indonesia since 2020. This highlights the importance of recognising early-stage breast cancer signs and understanding how to detect them.
Breast cancer is particularly dangerous because some people experience no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. The longer it goes undetected, the more difficult treatment becomes. Conversely, early detection significantly increases the five-year survival rate.
Below are early-stage breast cancer signs that should be closely monitored. Understanding these signs allows women to seek medical examination early and receive appropriate treatment.
For more information on early cancer symptoms affecting women, see:
“Early Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer and How to Prevent It”
Early-Stage Breast Cancer Signs to Be Aware Of
The most common symptom is a lump in the breast. However, not all lumps indicate cancer. The explanations below provide further clarity.
1. A Lump in the Breast
Most breast cancer cases are marked by the presence of an abnormal lump. Some lumps are painful, while others are not. In some cases, women report no discomfort at all until the lump grows larger.
As a preventive measure, women are advised to perform monthly breast self-examinations (BSE/SADARI) and undergo clinical breast examinations (SADANIS).
These examinations help identify the nature of breast tissue changes and detect abnormalities early.
2. Changes in the Nipple
Another sign is a change in nipple appearance. Some breast cancer patients experience nipples that turn inward or discharge fluid, sometimes tinged with blood.
This sign is often overlooked, especially among older women, who may assume the discharge is normal.
3. Changes in Breast Skin
Early-stage breast cancer may also present as changes in breast skin. Certain rare subtypes can cause visible skin alterations.
These changes may include irritation, thickening, redness, dimpling, or a texture resembling orange peel. Such symptoms are often mistaken for infections and should be examined promptly.
4. A Lump in the Armpit
Breast cancer cells can spread through lymph nodes, causing lumps in the armpit or upper arm. This can be an early sign of breast cancer progression and should not be ignored.
Regular attention to breast health is essential, as cancer cells can develop unpredictably. Consistent self-awareness is a key step toward long-term health.
Advanced Symptoms
In later stages, breast lumps may enlarge, ulcerate, or break through the skin. At this stage, symptoms may include bone pain, unexplained weight loss, arm swelling, or ulcer-like lesions on the breast.
If breast cancer spreads to other organs, additional symptoms may occur:
- Lungs: persistent cough, bloody or mucous sputum, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, wheezing
- Bones: ongoing bone pain
- Liver: abdominal swelling, yellowing of the skin, itching
Types of Lumps That Should Raise Concern
Lumps associated with early-stage cancer are often hard, large, irregular, appear suddenly, and may not be painful when touched. Over time, they tend to grow—over weeks, months, or even years.
Such lumps may be felt in the breast, armpit, neck, arms, or other areas.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer lumps often have the following characteristics:
- Located in the breast, armpit, or upper arm
- Thickening or swelling of breast tissue
- Redness or scaling around the nipple or surrounding area
- Skin dimpling or irritation
- Increased nipple sensitivity or pain
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
- Noticeable changes in breast shape or size
- Pain in the breast or surrounding area
If any of these signs appear, immediate medical evaluation is strongly recommended.
How to Detect Breast Cancer (SADARI and SADANIS)
Early detection allows faster treatment and better outcomes. Two commonly recommended methods are SADARI (breast self-examination) and SADANIS (clinical breast examination).
1. SADARI (Breast Self-Examination)
Steps to perform SADARI include:
- Observe breast shape in front of a mirror with arms relaxed. Look for changes in size, colour, or symmetry.
- Raise both arms behind the head, press hands against hips, and move elbows forward to tighten chest muscles, making abnormalities easier to see.
- Using the pads of three fingers, gently palpate the breast in circular motions from the outer area toward the nipple.
- Gently press the nipple to check for abnormal discharge. Non-lactation discharge may appear bloody, yellow-green, or purulent.
- Pay close attention to the upper outer breast area near the armpit, where tumours are commonly found.
2. SADANIS (Clinical Breast Examination)
SADANIS is performed by a medical professional and may involve imaging tests such as breast ultrasound or mammography for further evaluation.
For additional information, see:
“How to Read Pap Smear Results: What If the Result Is Positive?”
Breast Health Screening in Denpasar
Several healthcare facilities in Indonesia provide comprehensive women’s health screening services. One of them is RSIA Bunda Denpasar, which offers modern facilities for women’s health examinations, maternity care, 24/7 emergency services, teleconsultation, home care, and other medical services.
Contact RSIA Bunda Denpasar to learn more about available breast health screening packages and early detection services.
