Did you know that when the breast cancer Although it is in its early stages, it is very difficult to detect. It often has no obvious symptoms, making it one of the most dangerous diseases for women. For this reason, self-examination and early detection are essential to increase the chances of survival. mammograms Regular checkups and other examinations are essential to detect any abnormalities that might go unnoticed in the early stages. Typically, once breast cancer has developed, it may be detected as a lump or irregularity in the nipple area. Some patients have also experienced symptoms such as nipple bleeding, changes in breast shape, lumps, dimpling, or irritated and reddened areas.
How to perform a self-examination to detect abnormalities?
The first and most useful step is to perform a breast self-examination regularly. It should always be done in front of a mirror. Self-examination consists of observing whether both breasts are in proportion and symmetrical. We should also check the Skin appearance In the breast area, make sure there is no redness, lumps, or dimpling. The nipples should look as usual without any visual changes such as indentations or irritation. Then, it is important to palpate the breasts with circular motions to check for any lumps. When you raise your arms, irregularities often become more apparent, so this step is also key during the self-exam. While self-examination is not a definitive diagnostic technique, it is crucial for detecting abnormalities that could indicate the presence of cancer. If you detect anything unusual, consulting a doctor is vital for more advanced testing, such as a breast exam. mammography or a breast ultrasound.
Early detection: why is it so important?
El breast cancer It is the most common type diagnosed in women, and according to the OMS, more of 2,3 million cases new ones were diagnosed in 2022. Early detection of a malignant tumor not only increases the chances of successful treatment, but can also save lives. Mammography is the key tool in identifying tumors before they present symptoms. With the advancement of medical techniques, survival rates The rates have increased considerably; and in many cases, breast cancer diagnosed early has a cure rate of up to 90%. However, not all women have the same access to preventative screening. Factors such as age, radiation exposure history, and genetic background influence how often you should be screened. Even without symptoms, screening programs are essential for women over 40, although in some specific cases it may be necessary to start earlier. Women with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are typically at much higher risk.
Warning signs in the diagnosis of breast cancer
One of the first symptoms of breast cancer is the presence of a lump in the breast or armpit. This lump is usually firm and, in most cases, painless. However, breast cancer symptoms can vary from patient to patient, so some women do not experience any noticeable changes until the more advanced stages. The following signs may indicate a possible case of cancer and require immediate medical attention:
- Change in the size or shape of the breast
- Skin changes such as dimples or wrinkles
- Inverted nipple or discharge containing blood
- Swollen skin or red areas
It is important to note that some of these changes may be benign, but it is always better to be safe and get tested if in doubt. Self-examination remains an effective method of detecting any abnormalities, but it does not replace the importance of routine mammograms.
Diagnostic tests for breast cancer
There are different diagnostic tools to detect breast abnormalities. Mammography remains the most commonly used test due to its high effectiveness in detecting tumors in their early stages. In some cases, ultrasounds are also used to complement mammography, especially in younger women who have dense breast tissue. Another test used in diagnosis is the sentinel node biopsyThis test helps determine if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. In addition to imaging tests, a tissue biopsy may be necessary in some cases if a tumor is suspected. The biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory analysis to confirm whether it contains malignant cells.
Treatments for breast cancer
Treatment for breast cancer varies depending on the subtype and stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Common options include: surgery to remove the tumor, either by means of a lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue), or a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast). In some cases, after surgery, it is recommended to supplement the treatment with radiotherapy o chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. The use of biological treatments such as trastuzumab has been shown to be highly effective in patients whose cancer is HER2 positive. On the other hand, cancers that express hormone receptors can be beneficially treated with hormone therapyThis significantly reduces recurrence rates. In more advanced cases, treatment may include a combination of these methods and even the incorporation of emerging immunotherapeutic drugs, designed to help the immune system attack the most aggressive cancer cells.
Prevention and risk reduction
Prevention plays a crucial role in the fight against breast cancer. While it’s not possible to completely prevent cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use, and maintaining a healthy weight, are some of the most common recommendations. Women with a family history of breast cancer are advised to undergo screening. genetic testing To identify potential mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are indicators of an increased risk of developing the disease, risk-reduction strategies, such as the option of undergoing a prophylactic mastectomy in women with a high genetic risk, are also possibilities that should be thoroughly discussed with a specialist oncologist. Knowledge of the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as regular self-examination and seeking medical advice for any unexpected changes, are concrete actions that can make a difference in timely detection and treatment. With advances in imaging tests, genetics, and personalized cancer treatment, more women than ever have the opportunity to survive and move forward with their lives after a breast cancer diagnosis.