Breast Cancer: Prevention and Diagnosis

When should women have their first breast cancer screening?

Specialists recommend a mammogram starting at age 50. However, earlier screening is recommended on a voluntary basis. Women with a normal risk of breast cancer should have their first breast ultrasound at age 35 and repeat annually. From age 40, they should also have a mammogram. Women considered at higher risk, such as those with a family history, should have their first ultrasound at age 25-30 and repeat every six months.

Breast Self-Examination

The Importance of Breast Self-Examination

Knowing your breasts' characteristics allows you to notice changes promptly and seek medical attention if necessary.

Most breast changes are cysts or benign fibroadenomas requiring monitoring.

To detect potential signs of breast cancer, pay attention to nipple changes (retraction, prominence, discharge) and skin changes, particularly if affecting only one breast.

From age 20, perform monthly breast palpation on the same day (calendar marked), preferably a week after menstruation ends. Self-examination involves observation and palpation.

Breasts are sensitive to monthly hormonal changes. A week after menstruation, they are less painful and swollen, making changes easier to detect.

Timing is irrelevant for pregnant or menopausal women.

Breast Self-Examination: The First Diagnostic Tool

Self-examination doesn't replace professional exams. Mammography detects nodules, microcalcifications, and other potential signs; ultrasound confirms the presence and nature (solid or liquid) of nodular lesions. Both are useful for breast cancer diagnosis.

If you notice any changes, consult your doctor or a breast specialist for reassurance or appropriate diagnostic tests.

Self-examination should be approached without anxiety; it's a proactive health measure.

Clinical Breast Exam with a Specialist

Annual breast exams with a doctor are recommended for women under 40 and over 70.

Clinical exams provide explanations about breast physiology, reduce anxiety about benign conditions, and teach self-examination techniques.

Your doctor will recommend further tests (ultrasound, mammography) if needed.

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Why have screening tests and who to contact?

Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound, using ultrasound waves, is the first choice for women under 40. It identifies the nature of palpable nodules and detects small lesions.

In women over 40 (where mammography is preferred), ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool.

Mammography

For women over 40, mammographic screening (mammogram and possibly ultrasound) is advisable.

Mammography is excellent for early breast tumor detection.

Breast ultrasound and mammography are important for early lesion detection. For reliable results, choose expert radiologists and high-quality facilities. Mammography should be digital, preferably 3D tomosynthesis. Ultrasounds should use high-frequency probes, ideally performed by the same radiologist as the mammogram.

A Healthy Lifestyle

Reduce breast cancer risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle: proper diet, limited tobacco and alcohol use, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity.

What is the breast cancer diagnostic process?

The goal is early diagnosis, before the tumor is palpable. This is achieved through various methods: breast ultrasound in younger women, with mammography becoming more important over time. These methods are complementary; ultrasound detects lumps more easily, while mammography better detects other early-stage cancer signs. The 5-year survival rate after surgery is generally 98% for early-stage detection; the overall average is 80-85%.

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