October is the international month of breast cancer awareness – this period allows us to once again emphasize the importance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease.

Disease indicators and trends

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in women, both in Georgia and globally. Statistical data shows that the number of new breast cancer cases increases year by year. However, there is a positive trend – the mortality rate is decreasing. The main reason for this is early diagnosis, in which screening programs play a special role.

The purpose and essence of screening

Screening is the examination of a healthy, asymptomatic population to detect pathology at an early stage. Its main purpose is to identify the disease at a stage when treatment is most effective and yields comprehensive results.

The main stages of screening include:

•  Physical examination (palpation – examination of the breast and lymph nodes)

•  Ultrasound examination – visualization of the breast and regional lymph nodes

• 2D mammography – primarily for those over 40 years old

• Diagnostic biopsy – in case of detecting a pathological formation

Who can participate in screening?

In Georgia, any woman aged 40 to 70 can participate in the breast cancer screening program free of charge. It is especially important for representatives of high-risk groups (people with a family history of cancer) to undergo regular examinations.

Consequences of delayed diagnosis

It is alarming that to date, about one-third of new cases are diagnosed at the third or fourth stage – which significantly complicates treatment and increases the risk of complications and fatal outcomes.