Against breast cancer, women can now be well prepared and influence the course of the disease by preventing it early and in simple ways.
It is precisely this prevention, combined with the most effective treatments of recent years, that has made a major contribution to the treatment of breast cancer. A series of systematic, preventive examinations become a “weapon” in the hands of every woman, as long as they enter her life and are repeated, so that she can act immediately in case of a problem. After all, breast cancer has no symptoms, at least at an early stage, which further underlines the necessity of preventive screening, especially at ages over 40.
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness and Awareness Month, this message is heard louder around the world to reach every woman. Regular breast screening can reduce cancer deaths by a third. In our country there are approximately 7,772 new cases per year and it is estimated that 1 in 7 women worldwide will develop breast cancer at some stage in their lives. Unfortunately, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women, as early diagnosis rates are still low.
Prevention is the best “ally”
The first necessary preventive breast examination is self-examination, which should start at an early age. After all, the possibility of sporadic cancers, even without a family history, is possible even in very young women. Every woman should have a clear picture of her breasts so that she can recognise any change, however small, that will lead her to the gynaecologist’s surgery. Breast self-examination by palpation can be repeated every month.
As part of the philosophy of prevention, women should also be made aware of the need to visit the gynaecologist at regular intervals, so that at any time any concerns can be discussed and the doctor has a complete picture through regular clinical examination and knowledge of her medical history. However, the core of every woman’s prevention strategy is preventive examinations, in particular mammography and breast ultrasound.
Mammography is a test that the majority of women should start at the age of 40. Only if there is a family history of a case of breast cancer should this test enter a woman’s life earlier. In particular, if the relative was younger than 50 years old when she became ill, it is advisable to start the breast examination ten years earlier than the age of this diagnosis.
Mammography should be performed once a year or more often if the doctor thinks there is a reason to repeat it earlier. In fact, there is no solar limit, since in older ages the risk of developing breast cancer still exists. On its own, however, a mammogram may not be enough to give a comprehensive picture of the condition of the breast. In cases of a dense breast or the palpation of a finding, but not confirmed by mammography, breast ultrasound will act as a complementary tool, filling any possible gap in the procedure. Combined, the two tests are a reliable diagnostic tool for breast cancer. We must not forget that breast cancer, if detected in time, can be treated effectively and not become another sad statistic. We put systematic screenings in our lives, have regular contact with our gynecologist, check our breast health at regular intervals and gain strength against breast cancer. Prevention saves lives and this message must reach every woman loud and clear.