October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are an estimated 22,000 cases per year in Argentina, of which 6,100 die annually. Prevention and early detection are powerful weapons in the fight against this disease, as they reduce morbidity and mortality. In addition, it is essential that everyone be informed and committed to their breast health.
Self-examination is a simple practice in which you can explore your breasts for changes, lumps, or irregularities. In addition, starting at age 40 (or if you have a family history), it is important to schedule regular mammograms and ultrasounds. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Consider your breast density. It is important to understand that breast density can have a two-way impact on your health. First, it can increase the chances that potential breast cancer will go undetected on a mammogram, as dense breast tissue tends to hide abnormalities. Second, high breast density is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, although doctors have not yet identified the exact cause of this correlation.
The diagnostic tools we have at the Breast Diagnostic Center at the Medical Center for early detection are mammograms. For dense breasts, we supplement this with ultrasounds and, in some patients, breast MRIs. All of these imaging modalities use the best technology available worldwide.
The medical and technical team includes professionals who are highly specialized in breast diagnosis.
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
- Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly are key factors in prevention. Alcohol and tobacco, on the other hand, have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, so reducing or eliminating consumption of these products is recommended.
- Talk to your doctor about your family and personal history. Certain factors, such as genetics, can increase your risk of developing the disease. If you are at high risk, your doctor may recommend additional preventive measures.
- Education and awareness are key. Make sure you understand the symptoms and warning signs, and don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any suspicious changes.
- Prevention is not just about medical tests and healthy lifestyle habits. Emotional support and a network of friends and family are equally important. Talking about your concerns and fears can help you maintain a positive attitude and face any challenges that may arise.
Early detection of breast cancer is essential for successful treatment. It is important to be aware of possible signs and symptoms of the disease. Here are some of the signs that could indicate the presence of breast cancer, although it is important to remember that most of these signs can have other benign causes.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for a proper evaluation:
One of the most common signs is the presence of a lump or mass in the breast or armpit. These lumps are usually hard, irregular, and may or may not be painful.
Pay attention to any changes in the shape or size of one of your breasts, as well as any noticeable asymmetries between the two.
Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness, thickening, dimpling, or dimpling similar to the skin of an orange, can be warning signs.
Nipple inversion, secretions (blood or fluids), or persistent scabs around the nipple may indicate a problem.
Pain can be caused by a variety of reasons, but if it is persistent and not related to the menstrual cycle, it is important to consult a doctor.
Breast cancer in its early stages usually does not cause pain. breast cancer in its early stages usually does not cause pain, and a person may not experience any obvious symptoms. The lack of pain is one of the reasons why early detection through regular mammograms and ultrasounds is so important.
Many benign conditions, such as breast cysts or hormonal changes, can cause breast pain. In addition, it is essential that you follow the recommended early detection guidelines for your age, such as regular mammograms and ultrasounds and breast self-examination, to identify any problems in their early stages, when treatment options are often most effective. If you would like to have a preventive checkup, please do not hesitate to request an appointment with us.
