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All You Need to Know about Breast Cancer

All You Need to Know about Breast Cancer

Navigating the complexities of women’s health requires a knowledgeable and compassionate approach, and OB-GYNs play a crucial role in this journey. We aim to provide insightful answers to your questions regarding breast cancer, drawing on the specialized knowledge of OB-GYNs who are at the forefront of women’s healthcare. Whether you’re seeking information on prevention, early detection, treatment options, or simply wish to better understand the intricacies of breast health, our blog is here to offer reliable and accessible insights tailored to your needs.

Zofia Gordon Sönmez Answers

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Medcare Women & Children Hospital

– What role does self-examination play in breast cancer awareness, and how often should women perform breast self-exams?

Self-exam should be repeated monthly – preferably after the end of menstrual bleeding when there is less water retention in the body, breasts are not swollen, not tender and therefore easier for palpation. Post-menopausal women should check their breasts every 4 weeks. Self-breast check allows women to learn their breasts and detect if any change occurs.

 

– Can you describe the typical signs and symptoms of breast cancer that women should be aware of? Are there any less common symptoms that might go unnoticed?

Every time, a newly palpated lump should be checked by a doctor. Early stage of breast cancer is mostly asymptomatic. The clinical symptoms, like change in size, shape or appearance, skin redness, asymmetry, a newly inverted nipple, leak from the nipple – are symptoms of more advanced disease. This is why the screening is so important – it detects the cancer before it is clinically symptomatic.

 

– Are there any recent advancements in breast cancer screening techniques or technologies that have improved early detection rates?

The quality of imaging diagnostics tools still improves, technical advancement allows us to detect lesions at an earlier stage and better assess their type, which also helps to avoid unnecessary interventions and spares the patient’s stress. Genetics plays a more important role in early detection, especially in affected families. The individuals with a high risk of cancer are under a special care protocol, even before the cancer develops – this is a huge advancement. New genes and mutations are studied all the time and that knowledge is constantly implemented in clinical practice. This is believed to be a trend for the future.

 

– Could you share a success story from your experience where early breast cancer detection significantly improved a patient’s prognosis and quality of life?

I remember a woman in her 30s who came for a regular check-up without any symptoms. Thanks to her awareness, she was diagnosed at early stage breast cancer. This allowed to plan less aggressive treatment with a very good prognoses of the survival, life quality and also preservation of her fertility. She is a mother of 2 now.

 

– Are there any lifestyle factors or habits that you would recommend to women to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer?

There are known risk factors for breast cancer development that are modifiable. Unhealthy diet, excessive body mass, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, long term menopausal hormonal therapy (>5years) or early start of using oral contraception in teenagers are found to increase the risk. Therefore, lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. Also, breastfeeding is known to be a protective factor.

  • Sonia Chaudhary Answers
  • Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Medcare Women & Children Hospital

 

– What are some common misconceptions or myths about breast cancer that you’ve encountered in your practice?

Some common misconceptions or myths about breast cancer that have been encountered in medical practice:

  1. Only Women Can Get Breast Cancer: While breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop it. Though rare, it’s important for both genders to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
  2. Only Older Women Get Breast Cancer: While the risk of breast cancer does increase with age, younger individuals can also develop it. In fact, breast cancer can occur at any age.
  3. If There’s No Family History, I’m Not at Risk: Most cases of breast cancer occur in individuals with no family history of the disease. Having a family history can increase your risk, but it’s not the sole determinant.
  4. Breast Cancer is Always Painful: Not all breast cancers cause pain. In fact, many early-stage cancers are painless. Pain is not a reliable indicator of breast cancer.
  5. Only Women with Large Breasts Get Breast Cancer: The risk of developing breast cancer is not related to breast size. Both small and large-breasted individuals can develop breast cancer.
  6. A Lump Means Cancer: While a lump is one possible sign of breast cancer, not all lumps are cancerous. Many lumps turn out to be benign (non-cancerous) conditions. Nevertheless, any unusual lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  7. Mammograms Are Painful and Dangerous: Mammograms may cause some discomfort, but they are generally well-tolerated and safe. The benefits of early detection through mammograms far outweigh any temporary discomfort.
  8. Antiperspirants and Deodorants Cause Breast Cancer: There’s no credible scientific evidence linking the use of antiperspirants or deodorants to breast cancer.
  9. If You Have a Mastectomy, You’re Cured: While a mastectomy can be a crucial part of treatment, it doesn’t guarantee that the cancer won’t return. Follow-up care and monitoring are essential.
  10. Breast Cancer Always Requires a Full Mastectomy: Many cases of breast cancer can be treated with less extensive surgeries, like lumpectomies (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue) combined with radiation therapy.
  11. Nothing Can Be Done to Prevent Breast Cancer: While not all cases can be prevented, there are risk-reducing strategies such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and undergoing regular screenings.

It’s crucial to rely on reputable sources and consult Medcare Women & Children Hospital medical experts for accurate information about breast cancer. Understanding the facts can lead to better awareness, early detection, and improved outcomes for those affected by this disease.

 

– What are the key reasons why breast cancer screening is crucial for early detection? Can you provide some statistics or examples to emphasize its significance?

At Medcare Women & Children Hospital, we understand the importance of breast cancer screening. That’s why we’ve created a special discounted package priced at only 350 AED. This package includes a consultation and the choice between an ultrasound or mammogram. Our goal is to encourage women to take proactive steps towards breast health and join the fight against breast cancer. Below are some reasons why Breast Cancer Screening is important.

  1. Early Detection, Better Outcomes: Early detection leads to more effective treatment and higher survival rates.
  2. Reduced Mortality Rates: Screening programs decrease breast cancer mortality by over 30%.
  3. Smaller, More Manageable Tumors: Screen-detected cancers are smaller and less aggressive, making treatment easier.
  4. Less Invasive Treatments: Early detection allows for less aggressive treatments with fewer side effects.
  5. Improved Quality of Life: Preserving breast tissue enhances body image and overall well-being.
  6. Lower Healthcare Costs: Treating early-stage cancer is less costly than advanced-stage cases.
  7. Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored approaches based on early detection improve outcomes.
  8. Longer Remission Periods: Early detection leads to longer periods free from cancer.

 

– Are there any specific age groups or risk factors that should prompt women to start breast cancer screening earlier or more frequently

Yes, there are specific age groups and risk factors that may prompt women to start breast cancer screening earlier or undergo more frequent screenings. It’s important to note that screening recommendations can vary based on different guidelines and individual circumstances. Here are some considerations:

  1. Age:
  • General Population: In many countries, routine mammography screening typically begins around age 40 or 50, depending on the specific guidelines.
  • Younger Women with Risk Factors: Women with certain risk factors (discussed below) may need to start screening earlier, sometimes in their 30s or even earlier.
  1. Risk Factors:
  • Family History: Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, especially if a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) was diagnosed at a young age, may be advised to start screening earlier than the general population. Genetic counseling may be recommended to assess the need for genetic testing.
  • BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutations: Women who carry these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer and may start screening at an earlier age. In some cases, risk-reducing strategies such as prophylactic surgery might be considered.
  • Radiation Exposure: Women who received radiation therapy to the chest area, particularly during childhood or adolescence, may have an increased risk and may need earlier and more frequent screening.
  • Personal History of Breast Cancer: Women who have previously had breast cancer may require more frequent screenings, especially during the first few years after treatment.
  • Dense Breast Tissue: Dense breast tissue can make it more challenging to detect abnormalities on mammograms. In such cases, additional screening methods like ultrasound or MRI may be recommended.
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Women who have taken hormone replacement therapy, particularly for an extended period, may have an increased risk and may need more frequent screening.
  • Certain Genetic Syndromes and Conditions: Women with specific genetic syndromes or medical conditions (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome) may have an elevated risk and may require earlier and more intensive screening.
  • Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as Ashkenazi Jewish women, may have a higher risk of carrying BRCA mutations, which can increase the risk of breast cancer.

It’s crucial for women to discuss their individual risk factors with their healthcare provider, who can provide personalized recommendations for breast cancer screening. This may involve starting screening earlier, more frequent screenings, or utilizing additional screening methods beyond mammography.

 

– Some people believe that if they don’t have a family history of breast cancer, they are not at risk. How would you address this misconception?

Addressing the misconception that not having a family history of breast cancer means one is not at risk is crucial for promoting awareness and early detection. Here’s how I would address this misconception:

“It’s a common belief that only individuals with a family history of breast cancer are at risk, but this is not entirely accurate. While having a family history of breast cancer does increase your risk, most cases occur in individuals with no family history at all. In fact, about 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no known family history of the disease.

There are many other risk factors that can contribute to the development of breast cancer, such as hormonal factors, lifestyle choices, and certain genetic mutations. Additionally, breast cancer can occur sporadically due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

That’s why it’s so important for all women to be vigilant about their breast health, regardless of their family history. Regular screenings, like mammograms, and being aware of any changes in your breasts are crucial steps in early detection. Remember, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

If you have any concerns about your risk or screening recommendations, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your individual health history and risk factors.”

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