This is the type of cancer that most affects women, but it can be treated
According to an estimate by the INCA (National Cancer Institute), in Brazil alone there were about 66,280 new cases of breast cancer in 2020. It is the type of cancer that affects women the most and causes the most deaths among them. .
Although the treatment is, in most cases, satisfactory, with an average survival of 80%, in Brazil there is still a high mortality due to disease. The explanation is: late stage diagnosis.
Understanding what cancer is
After all, what is cancer? “Cancer is characterized by exaggerated and disordered cell growth. It is the result, in general, of a genetic mutation, which makes the cell capable of invading nearby tissues or forming colonies in distant organs (metastases). Quality of life and survival “, explains oncologist Dr. Geraldo Felicio.
More precisely, in the case of breast cancer“the cell arises, in about 85% of cases, from the mammary ducts, which produce milk during reproductive life, the so-called Ductal Carcinoma”, completes the specialist.
development ofbreast cancer
It is very important that there is strict control by women, because breast cancer in the early stages, in general, does not present any symptoms, not even pain. The most common age range is between 50 and 60 years. “There is controversy about when to start mammography, but the first exam should take place between the ages of 35 and 40,” explains the oncologist.
or self-examination can help with diagnosis of breast cancer. However, it is only possible to palpate it depending on the size and depth of the lump, “lumps of 1 cm or more,” explains Dr. Geraldo Felicio. Therefore, the ideal is to perform image examinations. “With tests such as mammograms, ultrasound scans and others, breast cancer can be detected even down to the millimeter,” adds the doctor.
Risk factors
Most breast cancers form and develop from estrogen, female hormone. Some factors favor its exposure, as they increase the risk of developing the disease. Oncologist Dr. Geraldo FelÃcio cites some examples:
- Early onset of menstruation;
- late menopause;
- Absence of children;
- Absence of breastfeeding;
- Hormone therapy after menopause;
- Obesity (especially postmenopausal);
- Sedentary lifestyle;
- Presence of first-degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer.
Breast Cancer Treatment
To be sure of the diagnosis, attempts are made to puncture the lump, usually with the help of ultrasound. “If the tumor is clearly large or involves the armpit, examinations before surgery to check for metastases, “explains Dr. Geraldo FelÃcio.” These tests are not necessary in the case of small, apparently localized tumors, “he adds.
After all these precautions, in some cases, surgery is performed. In others, preoperative chemotherapy is required, so that the tumor shrinks and the surgical procedure is as less aggressive as possible.
It is recommended that, whenever possible, the intervention is conservative, “saving the breast and removing only the tumor,” explains the oncologist. After surgery, it is necessary to evaluate the need for complementary chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy and anti-hormonal treatment.
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Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
