Empowering Women: The Role of Self-Examination in Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast cancer is a disease that originates in the breast tissue and primarily affects the ducts or lobules of the breast. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. With approximately 670,000 deaths worldwide in 2022, breast cancer has become a major global health problem. Notably, about half of all breast cancer cases occur in women. The high incidence of breast cancer is illustrated by the fact that women in 157 out of 185 countries are most at risk of developing breast cancer. While breast cancer primarily affects women, it is worth noting that about 0.5-1% of breast cancers also occur in men.

The Significance of Breast Cancer Screening

lEarly Detection: Early diagnosis is the key to effective treatment and significantly improves survival rates. Regular screening helps to detect cancer before symptoms appear.

lRising Risk: The risk of developing breast cancer has been rising for decades, emphasizing the need for regular screening and awareness.

Screening Methods

Self-examination is important for women to identify changes in breast tissue, but it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for individualized recommendations. Clinical breast exams are performed by professionals during routine checkups to identify lumps or abnormalities. Screening mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40-44 to detect problems early, while diagnostic mammograms target specific problems and detect lumps up to two years earlier than a physical exam. Breast MRIs provide detailed images for women at high risk or those with dense breast tissue and are often used to assess the extent of cancer after diagnosis. Breast ultrasound is often used in conjunction with mammography, especially for women with dense breasts or during pregnancy, as they do not involve radiation.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis

lHistory and Physical Examination: The doctor reviews the medical history and examines the breasts.

lImaging: Tests such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI help detect a lump.

lBiopsy: Tissue samples are obtained by fine needle or surgical biopsy for pathologic examination.

lPathology report: Determines the type of cancer and evaluates hormone receptor and HER2 status.

lTumor Markers: Testing for markers such as CA 15-3 helps to monitor treatment response and disease progression.

Regular breast cancer screening is essential for early detection and improved survival. Considering the differences in morbidity and mortality rates in different regions, women should discuss their individual risk factors with their health-care providers to determine the most appropriate screening schedule for them.