When Breast Cancer Changes Everything | QRATED Podcast

Welcome back to a special episode of QRATED, brought to you by UM Specialist Centre (UMSC)! Host Nadia Azmi delves into a topic that affects thousands of Malaysians each year: breast cancer. This is a conversation for anyone touched by this disease, whether you're a patient, a survivor, or a loved one.Joining us are two remarkable experts, both specializing in this field: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adlinda Alip, a Consultant Clinical Oncologist, and Prof. Dr. See Mee Hoong, a Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon. They're here to provide clarity, hope, and expert guidance on the breast cancer journey from diagnosis to surgery and beyond.________________________________________What You'll Learn:• Understanding Breast Cancer: Prof. Dr. See Mee Hoong uses a prop to explain exactly what breast cancer is, differentiating between common types and how they develop from cells to invasive tumors.• Early Signs and Symptoms: Our experts outline the critical symptoms to look for, from lumps and changes in breast shape to persistent skin issues or nipple discharge. Learn why early detection is key to a better prognosis.• The Gender Divide: Get the surprising statistics on male breast cancer in Malaysia, which, while rare, is still a reality.• The Role of Screening: We discuss the importance of mammograms for women over 40 and address the myth that they can cause cancer. Learn about alternative screening methods like MRIs and ultrasounds for younger patients.• Your Treatment Journey: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adlinda Alip walks us through the entire patient journey from initial diagnosis to the different treatment options. She explains the purpose and differences between chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy.• Mastectomy and Rebuilding: Prof. Dr. See Mee Hoong details the evolution of surgical procedures from radical mastectomies to modern, minimally invasive techniques. He explains how breast reconstruction and other options help patients regain their confidence and body image.• The Power of Teamwork: Discover how a multidisciplinary team of doctors, including surgeons and oncologists, collaborates to provide the most effective, personalized care for each patient.• The Message of Hope: Our experts share a powerful message of courage and encouragement, emphasizing that an early diagnosis leads to a higher chance of cure and less complex treatment. They stress that patients are not alone in this journey.________________________________________This episode goes beyond the medical details to offer support, knowledge, and hope. It is a testament to the resilience of cancer survivors and the compassionate care provided by experts like our guests.UM Specialist Centre is Malaysia's premier quaternary hospital, offering rare, complex, and next-level care with a team of trusted super-consultants, advanced technology, and research-backed treatments.________________________________________