Breast cancer is a malignant tumor of the mammary gland, predominantly occurring in women aged 40-70 years.
Statistically, breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor among women.
Notably, the mortality rate caused by breast cancer decreases annually — which is attributed to early diagnosis (screening) and modern treatment methods.
If detected early, breast cancer can be cured in 98 out of 100 cases.
Risk factors:
Harmful habits — consumption of tobacco and alcohol
Overweight
Low physical activity
Lack of lactation
Early onset of menstruation (before age 12)
Late menopause (after age 55)
Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
Hormone replacement therapy
Presence of breast cancer in first- and second-degree relatives
History of breast cancer
Radiation therapy to the chest organs
The presence of risk factors does not necessarily mean that the disease will develop. Breast cancer can occur even in the absence of risk factors.
Symptoms:
Mass in the mammary gland
Invert of the nipple
Discharge from the nipple
Changes in skin color and texture (the so-called "orange peel" skin)
Redness, swelling, ulceration
Changes in size/shape of the mammary gland
Mass in the armpit
Prevention:
Regular preventive examinations:
18-35 years — once every 3 years
After age 35 — annually
From age 40 — screening once every 2 years
Self-examination
Limiting tobacco and alcohol
Daily physical activity
Healthy weight
Proper nutrition — fruits and vegetables, calcium-rich foods, limiting red meat and processed foods
Diagnostics:
Physical examination (palpation)
2D/3D mammography (tomosynthesis)
Ultrasound of the mammary gland and regional lymph nodes
MRI (optional)
COR-biopsy — core needle biopsy
FNA-biopsy — fine needle aspiration biopsy
Cytological, morphological and immunohistochemical studies
For staging determination:
Computed tomography of the chest and abdominal cavity
Bone scintigraphy
PET-CT as needed
Treatment:
Surgical treatment
Chemotherapy (neoadjuvant/adjuvant)
Radiation therapy
Hormonal therapy
Targeted therapy
The treatment plan is conducted by a clinical oncologist after staging the disease.
Early surgical intervention is the most effective.
In aggressive or advanced forms, neoadjuvant treatment is recommended.
National screening program:
Women aged 40-70 can participate in screening funded by the state at the "Consilium Medula" clinic:
Free of charge:
Consultation with a mammologist
Mammography
As needed:
Ultrasound of the mammary gland
Collection of biopsy material
Cytological examination
By undergoing timely examinations, you:
Will not give the disease a chance to develop
Will increase the chances of recovery
Frequently asked questions:
Q: Why should we undergo screening?
A: Early detected breast cancer is 98% curable.
Q: How is screening conducted?
A: Screening is done through mammographic examination — a safe and fast procedure.
Q: How to prepare for mammography?
A:
Do not use deodorant, cream, powder
Undergo examination on days 7-12 after menstruation
During lactation or within 3 months after its cessation — is not recommended
Self-examination:
Inspection in front of a mirror:
Check skin color, swelling, inversion, changes in shape
Movement:
Hands on the back of the neck, leaning forward, observe both breasts
Palpation:
With three fingers, in circular motion — first superficial, then deep
Check the armpits as well
If you notice a change — promptly consult a specialist.
Perform self-examination:
On days 7-12 after menstruation
During menopause — on the same day of each month