Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Understanding Breast Cancer - Early Detection is Key to Timely Intervention

October has been recognized as the Pink Month in a global effort to raise awareness about breast cancer. Pink Month is a month dedicated to educating people about breast cancer, including early detection, signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in both the developed and less developed worlds, according to the World Health Organization. Breast cancer accounts for nearly 20% of all cancer cases in the UAE and is the second most significant cause of death among women after cardiovascular conditions. This Breast Cancer Awareness month, let us increase our understanding of the disease and take a step to educate ourselves about breast cancer.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The following are some of the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer:

A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
Change in breast size, shape, or appearance
Dimpling or irritation in breast skin
A nipple that has recently inverted
The pigmented patch of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin peels, scales, crusts, or flakes
Reddening or pitting of the skin above your breasts
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), including blood

Risk factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is caused by a mix of causes, according to studies. Being a woman and being older are two major variables that impact your risk. The majority of breast cancers can be seen in women over the age of 40.

Risk Factors that cannot be controlled

Reproductive history
Growing older
Genetic mutations
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
Previous treatment using radiation therapy
Having dense breasts
Personal background of breast cancer or some non-cancerous breast diseases

Risk Factors that you can control

Being physically inactive
After-menopausal obesity or overweight
Using hormones
Consuming alcoholic beverages

Breast Cancer Screening

The best way for early diagnosis of breast cancer is regular screening. Breast cancer is usually diagnosed after the symptoms develop, although many women with cancer have no signs or symptoms. This is why it is critical to get screened for breast cancer on a regular basis. Given below are some breast cancer screening tests:

Mammogram – A mammogram is a type of X-ray that is used to examine the breast. Mammograms are the most effective approach for early detection.
Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – A breast MRI takes images of the breast using magnets and radio waves. Breast MRI is used in combination with mammograms to examine women at high risk for breast cancer.
Breast Self-Awareness – Knowing how your breasts appear and feel can assist you in detecting signs such as lumps, discomfort, or changes in size that may be cause for worry.
Clinical Breast Exam – A clinical breast exam is performed by a doctor or nurse who looks for lumps or other changes with his or her hands.

Breast Cancer is a manageable condition, provided timely intervention is availed, which is possible through regular screenings. Ensure that you stay in touch with your doctor to understand the screenings processes and the timelines that will suit your health.