Cancer is a disease that arises from the uncontrolled proliferation and growth of cells in any organ or tissue of our body. Breast cancer is cancer that develops from the cells of the breast tissue.
Breast cancer, which frequently occurs after the age of 50, ranks first among cancer types seen in women. There is a risk of one in eight women developing cancer throughout their lifetime. The incidence of breast cancer increases with age.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
- Being overweight,
- Consuming alcohol and smoking,
- Physical inactivity,
- Undergoing long-term hormone therapy,
- Family history and genetic factors (The risk of the disease increases threefold if a mother or sister has had breast cancer.),
- Giving birth after the age of 30 or never having given birth,
- Starting menstruation at an early age (since they will be exposed to more estrogen throughout their lives, the risk increases.),
- Entering menopause late (long exposure to estrogen hormones).
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The most common symptom is feeling a painless lump in the breast and underarm that grows slowly over time. Pain may rarely accompany it. Swellings in the breast, skin thickening, inward turning of the nipple, skin redness, and irritation are other less common symptoms of breast cancer.
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
The primary method for early diagnosis is self-examination of the breasts at home. If a suspicious lump is felt within the breast tissue, a doctor should be consulted without delay. It is generally recommended to perform a self-breast examination once a month after age 20 and have a breast examination by a specialist once a year.
After the age of 40, it is necessary to perform a self-breast examination monthly and have a mammogram once a year. Mammography is considered the primary method for breast cancer screening.
Before the age of 40, it is not recommended to have a mammogram unless there is a special reason. This is because the dense nature of the breast tissue in young women can obscure adequate information. The treatment of each patient varies, and multiple factors such as the course of the disease, stage of cancer, age of the patient, and other health problems influence the treatment decision.
Precautions to Prevent Breast Cancer
Being aware of breast cancer risk factors is very important for early diagnosis and protective measures. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Maintaining an ideal weight, regular physical activity, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption are important in this regard. It is also known that factors such as childbirth and breastfeeding have a protective effect.
Individuals with a family history of breast cancer are advised to evaluate their risks through genetic counseling services. Long-term hormone therapies and late menopause, which are among the risk factors, should also be considered, and such individuals should be included in more frequent screening programs. When breast cancer symptoms are detected, seeking medical attention without delay is vital. Early diagnosis significantly increases the success rate in the treatment process. Every woman should perform self-breast examinations starting from the age of 20 and attend regular doctor check-ups.
How to Perform a Self-Breast Examination?
Self-breast examination is a simple yet effective method that women can regularly practice to detect any unusual changes in the breast tissue early. This practice can play a vital role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer and help women get to know their bodies better. It is recommended that every woman perform a self-breast examination once a month starting from the age of 20.
The most suitable time to perform the examination is a few days after the end of the menstrual cycle. At this time, hormonal swelling in the breasts decreases, making it easier to notice any possible changes. Women in the post-menopausal period can choose the same day each month for the examination.
Before starting the examination, it is important for the environment to be calm and comfortable, allowing complete focus on the process. While standing in front of a mirror, attention should be paid to the appearance of the breasts and nipples. Visual details such as whether the breasts are symmetrical, if there is any retraction, scaling, or color change of the nipples should be examined. Additionally, different positions such as lifting the arms, opening them to the sides, or placing them on the waist can help ascertain whether there is any shape change in the breasts.
During the tactile examination, the breast tissue should be gently but carefully felt with the fingertips. Placing one arm behind the head while lying on a flat surface helps better control the breast on that side. Circular motions with the fingertips should be used to scan the breast tissue thoroughly. The presence of hardness, lumps, thickening, tenderness, or a previously unnoticed change should be observed. The same procedures should be repeated for the other breast. The underarm area should also be checked as lymph nodes are located here, and any swelling or lump may first be felt in this area.
Checking the breast tissue with soapy hands during a bath can facilitate a more detailed examination due to the slipperiness. Gently squeezing the nipples is also important for checking for any discharge. Any discharge, especially the presence of bloody fluid, should be reported to a doctor.
Self-breast examination is not a professional screening method; however, it allows the person to notice unusual conditions in their breasts early, shortening the time to consult a physician. Therefore, regularly performed self-examination is invaluable for creating awareness and monitoring health.
Regular doctor examinations and screening methods do not replace self-examinations. This habit is the first step in knowing the body and detecting potential dangers early. It is recommended that every woman not neglect this simple yet effective step for her health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of breast cancer, and are these symptoms the same in every patient?
Breast cancer symptoms typically manifest as a painless lump in the breast. Other than this, symptoms such as nipple retraction, redness, or thickening of the skin can also be seen. Symptoms can vary from person to person; therefore, any change should be examined by a doctor.
Which factors increase the risk of breast cancer?
Risk factors for breast cancer include advanced age, genetic predisposition, being overweight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, early menstruation, and late menopause. The presence of these factors increases the importance of regular check-ups.
Am I at risk even if there is no history of breast cancer in my family?
Yes. Although genetic factors are important, breast cancer does not only occur due to hereditary reasons. Individuals without a family history can also develop breast cancer. Therefore, all women should be aware of breast cancer risk factors and not neglect regular check-ups.
Is it possible to prevent breast cancer?
While a definitive prevention method does not exist, breast cancer risk factors can be reduced. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, performing self-breast examinations, and being under doctor supervision can be effective in reducing risks.