Breast Cancer: Discover why early detection is vital and learn the essential steps

Understand why early diagnosis is critical in the fight against breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a reality that affects millions of women around the world, representing not only a health challenge, but also a path to overcoming and hope. In this scenario, early diagnosis emerges as a critical factor capable of determining not only the course of the disease, but, in many cases, survival itself. Knowing and acting conscientiously are the keys to the prevention and effective treatment of this condition, offering hope to all people facing this battle.

How important is early diagnosis?

Early detection of breast cancer is extremely important due to the direct impact it has on the prognosis and treatment of the disease. When breast cancer is identified at an early stage, the chances of successful treatment are significantly greater. This means the tumor is smaller and less likely to spread to other parts of the body, making treatments less aggressive and preserving the patient’s quality of life. Additionally, early diagnosis can significantly increase survival rates.

What are the risk factors for developing breast cancer?

There are several risk factors associated with the development of breast cancer. Below you can see the main ones:

• Old age;
• Family history of the disease;
• Genetic mutations;
• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• Obesity;
• prolonged use of hormone therapy;
• Early onset of menstruation or even late menopause.

However, it is important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that someone will definitely develop breast cancer. Prevention and early diagnosis still play a key role in reducing risk.

What to look for in the self-examination?

During your breast self-examination, it is important to be aware of any changes in your breasts. Anything that deviates from normality in that region should be considered a point of alarm. In order to know how to differentiate, you must have knowledge of your body to know if there is something new. But, in general, looking for worrisome signs starts by checking for lumps, lumps, skin texture, or even nipples. Breast deformity, contractures, swelling, redness, excessive tenderness, or nipple discharge should also be observed. Self-examination should be performed monthly, preferably after the menstrual period, and any suspicious changes should be reported immediately to a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

How is the diagnosis made?

Diagnosis of breast cancer involves several steps. A mammogram is one of the most common tools for monitoring breast changes, but as you’ve learned, early diagnosis can start at home with a self-examination. After the self-examination and mammogram, if points of abnormalities are identified, other tests may be ordered. These include: ultrasound, resonance, biopsy, among others. These results will help the medical specialist identify the existence of cancer and its stage. In this way the professional will be able to begin an effective treatment path for that specific situation. There are several possibilities and the choice will depend on each patient’s case and how he or she will respond to that direction. See some treatment possibilities:

• Surgery: Often the first step in treatment. There are several types of surgery, including tumor removal and axillary lymph node removal. The choice of surgical procedure depends on the size and extension of the tumor;
• Radiotherapy: involves the use of high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It is often given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells;
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be administered before or after surgery, depending on the case;
• Hormone therapy: This involves the use of drugs to block the action of these hormones, slowing or stopping the growth of the cancer.
• Targeted therapies: target specific proteins present in tumor cells;
• Immunotherapy: This is a newer approach that stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It may be used in some cases of metastatic breast cancer;
• Reconstruction surgery: After a mastectomy, some women opt for breast reconstruction surgery to restore the appearance of their breasts.

Although there are different treatments for different stages of the disease, in some cases they are not effective. For this reason, there are a number of palliative treatments that can help the patient with pain and quality of life.

Is there breast cancer in men?

Breast cancer in men, although less common, is a health problem that deserves attention. Although most cases occur in women, men can also be affected by this condition. That said, it is essential to highlight that men are not immune to breast cancer and it is essential to raise public awareness of this possibility. Just like women, men should also be aware of the warning signs and the importance of early diagnosis. Signs in men may include the presence of a lump or thickening of the breast, pain in the breast area, nipple inversion, nipple discharge, and changes in the texture of the skin of the breast. Any of these symptoms should be cause for immediate medical consultation. Early diagnosis is equally vital for men as it allows diagnosis at an early stage, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. Men can also perform breast self-exams, although it is less common. Regularly consulting a doctor and reporting any changes in breast health is an important practice for everyone, regardless of gender.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.