DETECTING BREAST CANCER
Posted on November 10 2022
The most common cancer among women is breast cancer, which usually appears between the ages of 35 and 80, but the highest incidence of cases is found between the ages of 45 and 70. The purpose of this blog is to sensitize and raise awareness among women around the world about the importance of having a regular breast exam in order to detect any signs or abnormalities.
Body signs of breast cancer
The signs that can alert of the presence of breast cancer may be different in each patient, so it is important to perform self-examinations and go to regular checkups with your doctor. This will prevent and detect as soon as possible any abnormality, and specially in cases where there aren’t any signs or symptoms.
At Phys Assist we want to highlight some warning signs of breast cancer:
- A new lump in the breast or armpit (under the arm).
- Increased thickness or swelling of a part of the breast.
- Irritation or sagging of the skin of the breast.
- Redness or scaling in the nipple or breast area.
- Sinking of the nipple or pain in that area.
- Nipple discharge, other than milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or shape of the breast.
- Pain anywhere in the breast.
Self-examination, can save your life
Breast self-examination can be a good way to detect breast cancer at an early stage, when it can be treated with better results.
- Exerting pressure from the outside to the inside, from the breast to the nipple.
- Performing vertical zig zag movements on the breast.
- Performing circular spiral movements on the breast.
What to do if you find a lump in your breast
If you detect an abnormality during a breast self-examination, first of all, stay calm. It is common for women to have lumps or areas of lumps in their breasts, and most of them end up being benign (non-cancerous). However, if the lump persists or worries you, consult your doctor. Keep in mind that during the menstrual cycle changes occur in the body, so if the lump persists after the menstrual cycle, visit your doctor.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Doctors often perform some tests to detect or diagnose breast cancer. These include:
- Breast ultrasound. A machine that uses sound waves to produce images, called sonograms, of areas within the breast.
- Diagnostic mammography. This is a detailed x-ray of the breast.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breasts. The MRI will create detailed images of areas within the breast.
- This is a test in which tissue is removed or fluid is taken from the breast to be studied under a microscope or for further testing.
What role does early diagnosis play in the development and evolution of this disease?
Early diagnosis is fundamental to detect the disease in its early stages; that is why it is advisable to undergo mammograms from the age of 40 onwards. Obtaining diagnoses of smaller tumors benefits the survival and evolution of the disease and allows earlier treatment, which improves the results with fewer side effects and a better quality of life for women. Keep in mind to always check with your health professional for any sign or symptom of discomfort.
"Difficult roads can lead to beautiful destinations."
— Kia Wynn, oral cancer survivor
References:
0 comments