Finding breast cancer early can make a world of difference. Here’s why:
Better Treatment Options: Discovering breast cancer at an early stage often means gentler, more effective treatments.
More Choices: Early-stage breast cancer provides a range of treatment options tailored to your unique needs.
Higher Survival Rates: Catching it early significantly boosts the chances of successful treatment.
Less Invasive Interventions: Early detection can lead to less aggressive surgeries and better preservation of natural breast tissue.
Key Steps for Early Detection:
Breast Self-Exams: Regular self-exams play a vital role in identifying changes in your breast tissue. By familiarising yourself with the texture, shape, and size of your breasts, you can quickly spot any unusual developments.
Clinical Breast Exams: Schedule regular clinical breast exams with a healthcare professional. These exams aim to identify any abnormalities that self-exams alone might not notice.
Mammograms: Mammograms are X-ray images of the breast that can detect even the tiniest changes in breast tissue. Women over 40 should get regular mammograms. If a family has a history of breast cancer, they may need earlier screening.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound allows for “real time” imaging and helps diagnose symptoms and doctors often perform it alongside a mammogram to gather more information. For example, it can help in the diagnosis of cysts. It is also useful as a means of performing a biopsy.
Magnet Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses a magnetic field to create images of the breast tissue. It does not use radiation or x-rays like a mammogram does.
MRI has been shown to be a very sensitive tool for screening for breast cancer, particularly for women at high risk, for example, those with a very strong family history of breast cancer, or at risk because of a genetic predisposition.
Knowing what to look for matters. Be aware of:
Lumps or Masses: A new lump or mass in your breast can be felt during self-exams.
Shape Changes: Watch for swelling, dimpling, or changes in breast shape.
Skin Changes: Redness, scaliness, or unusual skin changes on the breast or nipple.
Nipple Changes: Any shifts in nipple position, inversion, or discharge.
Pain: Even though most breast cancers do not cause pain, you should get checked if you experience unexplained breast or nipple pain.
Myth 1: Only women can get breast cancer.
- Breast cancer can also occur in men, although it is much less common.
- Men should know the signs of breast cancer and see a doctor if they notice anything unusual.
Myth 2: Only older women are at risk.
- While the risk of breast cancer increases with age, younger women can also develop the disease.
- All women of all ages should actively be aware of their breast health and should regularly examine themselves and get screened.
Myth 3: Breast cancer is always hereditary.
- Not all breast cancer is hereditary. Other risk factors, such as age, hormonal factors, and lifestyle choices, can also contribute to the development of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a significant health concern that affects many individuals. Knowing important information about breast cancer helps us find it early, get the right treatment, and support those affected. It is crucial to stay informed and spread awareness to reduce the impact of breast cancer on individuals and communities.
Support and Resources
A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and physically challenging. It is important for individuals to seek support from loved ones, support groups, and healthcare professionals.
See below some helpful links to learn more about Breast Cancer:
