What should I know about breast cancer?
- It is cancer that is often detected in women
- It is a major factor in cancer deaths among women
- It is the main cause of early death 9% of all cancer in the world
- 6 - 8% of all cancer deaths
Are there any warning signs?
Yes, if you are experiencing the following conditions, please see your doctor or go to a nearby health clinic.
- Lump inside the breast or underarm area
- Excessive bleeding or discharge from the nipple
- Changes in breasts size and shape
- Rashes, swelling, redness or thickening
- Skin dimpling or wrinkles skin surface
How do I see the changes?
Most breasts are detected by the woman herself
Check your breasts regularly through Breast Self-Examination (BSE). Through periodic checks, you can detect even one small tip
What is Breast Self-Examination(BSE)?
BSE is a Self-Examination of breasts according to certain steps
In 5 steps
- Step 1 - Stand in front of the mirror and see any changes in the left breast
- Step 2 - Feel any change lying down
- Step 3 - Check the nipple for any bleeding or discharge
- Step 4 - Feel any lumps under the armpit
- Step 5 - Repeat each step above for the right breast
How often should I do BSE?
BSE should be made once a month (for those who still have menstruation). The appropriate time is 7 - 10 days after menstruation. For women who have menopause, take a date that is easy to remember and do every month either the first or last day of the month.
What should I do if I find some changes in my breast?
If you are able to detect any signs as mentioned previously, please consult your doctor.
Do not be afraid, not all tumors in the breast are cancerous
For example Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenoma
It usually happens among young women and it is painless.
What tests are available to confirm breast cancer?
Here is a test carried out if suspected of cancer
- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)
- Core needle biopsyUltrasound
What is 'FNAC'?
It is a test carried out with a suspected sampling of lumps by using a smooth syringe and needle using sterile techniques.
Samples taken will be sent to the laboratory for review by experts
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is one of the tests conducted to detect changes in breast tissue using a specially designed x-ray machine
It is performed by pressing the breast between the two metal sheets. It may cause discomfort/pain for some time. It can measure the size and spread of cancer in the breast and detect cancer in the other breasts again.
Do I need to see a doctor if I do not detect
any extraordinary circumstances?
Yes, in fact, we encourage women over the age of 30 to make a Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)
This is a check made by a trained doctor to check your breasts.
What is breast cancer treatment available?
The treatment given depends on the type and severity of cancer.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, you should seek counseling before the treatment begins.
Studies show that if counseling, support, and information on illness and treatment are administered, it will help to recover physically and emotionally.
The following treatment options are available:
- Breast-Conservation Surgery
What should I do to reduce the risk of breast cancer?
- General BSE on a regular basis
- Eat less fatty food especially animal fat
- Increase the intake of vegetables, fruits, and fiber
- If your family has breast cancer history, immediately do an early mammogram test
Who is likely to get breast cancer?
Breast cancer is common among women. However, about 5% occur in men.
Here are women who are at high risk for breast cancer
After 25 years of age and usually occurs during the age of 45 - 55 years.
- Ever had cancer next to the breast
- Family history in breast cancer
- Never pregnant or having a first child after age 30
- From early menstruation or late menstrual passage
- Take high fat/cholesterol foods
What should I do if my family has a
history of breast cancer?
Do not worry. If you have breast self-examination (BSE), proceed as usual.
Practice a healthy lifestyle, eat healthily and keep on exercising. If a mother or a sibling has suffered from breast cancer, you may ask for a mammogram test.
However, the results of the report are more accurate if you are over 40 years of age.
