2023-10-22 07:00:00
Breast Cancer: The Leading Cancer in Women
Breast cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Recent statistics reveal that 30-40 out of 100,000 individuals are affected by this disease, with significantly higher rates among women compared to men. In fact, only 1% of cancer cases in men are breast cancer, emphasizing its predominance in the female population. Most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 50, the cause of breast cancer remains unclear and is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic and spontaneous abnormalities.
To shed light on the importance of breast cancer awareness and early detection, Dr. Chutinan Watcharakul, a specialist in diagnostic and interventional radiology of the breast at Nawawet Hospital, has joined the effort. Dr. Watcharakul provides valuable insights into breast cancer, including self-examination and the benefits of breast screening. These screenings play a vital role in determining an individual’s risk of developing breast cancer.
Identifying the risk factors associated with breast cancer is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention. These risk factors include having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, previous breast cancer diagnosis, abnormal genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, the absence of childbirth or having the first child after the age of 30, early onset of menstruation, late menopause, and chest area radiation therapy.
To ensure early detection, it is important to be aware of abnormalities that warrant immediate medical attention. These include the presence of palpable lumps in the breasts or armpit area, changes in breast size or shape, skin abnormalities like thickening or discoloration, nipple discharge, and slow-healing wounds around the breast and nipple.
Regrettably, breast cancer often goes undetected until these abnormalities become more pronounced, leading to delayed treatment. This emphasizes the significance of regular screenings for detecting breast cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms manifest.
To facilitate breast examination, guidelines have been established for self-examination and professional medical assessments. Individuals over the age of 20 are urged to conduct monthly self-examinations, while clinical examinations by a doctor are recommended every three years from the age of 20, increasing to annual examinations after the age of 40. Additionally, mammograms and/or ultrasounds should be conducted starting at age 35-40, with annual screenings thereafter. In cases where first-degree relatives have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, screenings should start five years earlier than the age of diagnosis in those relatives.
The article also provides a step-by-step guide for self-examination, emphasizing the importance of consistency and thoroughness in detecting potential abnormalities.
When professional examinations are required, various techniques are employed, including mammography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and biopsy. Mammography utilizes X-rays to detect abnormalities, while ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to examine breast tissue. MRI is reserved for high-risk individuals or cases with prior abnormalities detected through mammograms or ultrasounds. Biopsies may be recommended by doctors when abnormalities are found, and they involve the extraction of tissue samples for further analysis.
The advantages of 3D mammography are also highlighted in the article. These benefits include increased accuracy in identifying breast abnormalities, reduced discomfort during the examination process, shorter inspection times, faster detection of cancers, and adherence to radiation dosage standards to ensure patient safety.
In preparation for examinations, individuals are advised to avoid applying lotions, deodorants, or loose powders on the chest and underarms, as they can interfere with X-ray imaging. Additionally, examinations are most effective after menstruation ends when breast swelling is minimal.
Interpreting mammogram or ultrasound results is crucial in assessing an individual’s risk of developing breast cancer. The BI-RADS scale, ranging from 1 to 6, allows doctors to categorize patients based on their specific risk levels. Scores indicating abnormal findings prompt further diagnostic interventions such as biopsies.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes the significance of detection and treatment for breast cancer. Early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival rates. By staying informed and following recommended screening guidelines, individuals can play an active role in combating breast cancer.]
#know….that #Breast #cancer #risks #treat #quickly