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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Health & Science

Doctor warns of importance of early detection for brain tumors

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Late diagnosis remains a major challenge for brain tumor patients in Indonesia.
  • Many patients seek medical help only after symptoms become severe, impacting treatment success.
  • Doctors urge early detection, emphasizing that timely evaluation improves diagnosis and therapy outcomes.

Delayed diagnosis continues to be a significant hurdle in managing brain tumor cases in Indonesia, often leading to advanced disease by the time patients seek medical attention. This delay can compromise the effectiveness of treatment.

Many patients come when symptoms have been present for quite some time. Yet, examining from the onset of initial complaints can help doctors determine a diagnosis and therapy plan more quickly and accurately.

— Dr. Dhira AtmanThe neurosurgeon explained why early medical evaluation is crucial for brain tumor patients.

Brain tumor cases are reportedly increasing annually, with estimates suggesting a rise of 10 to 25 percent. In Indonesia, brain cancer accounted for approximately 1.5 percent of all new cancer cases in 2020, ranking 15th among diagnosed cancer types.

Dr. Dhira Atman, a neurosurgeon at Columbia Asia Hospital Pulomas, noted that many patients dismiss early symptoms as common health issues. They often postpone seeking examination until their complaints intensify. "Many patients come when symptoms have been present for quite some time. Yet, examining from the onset of initial complaints can help doctors determine a diagnosis and therapy plan more quickly and accurately," Dr. Atman stated.

Symptoms such as persistent headaches, vision problems, limb weakness, behavioral changes, and seizures without prior history warrant attention.

— Dr. Dhira AtmanThe doctor listed key symptoms that individuals should watch out for regarding brain tumors.

Symptoms of brain tumors can vary, but persistent headaches, vision problems, limb weakness, behavioral changes, and seizures without prior history warrant attention. These symptoms require medical evaluation if they recur or worsen. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a common diagnostic tool, providing detailed images of brain tissue and the nervous system to identify abnormalities like tumors and strokes.

MRI provides a very detailed picture of the brain's condition, helping doctors establish a diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for patients.

— Dr. Dhira AtmanThe neurosurgeon highlighted the utility of MRI in diagnosing brain conditions.

Dr. Atman stressed the importance of not ignoring recurring or worsening neurological complaints. Early medical consultation, he explained, facilitates a faster diagnosis and improves the chances of successful treatment. "Consulting a doctor early can help obtain a faster diagnosis and increase the chances of successful treatment," he said.

Consulting a doctor early can help obtain a faster diagnosis and increase the chances of successful treatment.

— Dr. Dhira AtmanDr. Atman reiterated the importance of prompt medical consultation for better health outcomes.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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