Breast Cancer Prevention

Breast Examination and Ultrasound

Breast cancer prevention is one of the primary health concerns for women, as this type of cancer is the most common worldwide. However, due to significant advancements in research and diagnostic techniques, early diagnosis and prevention have greatly improved the chances of recovery and survival. The importance of prevention is crucial, as it allows for the identification of the disease in its early stages, when treatment is most effective and less invasive.

Self-Examination and Awareness

A key aspect of breast cancer prevention is being aware of one’s body. Every woman should become familiar with the shape and texture of her breasts to recognize any changes. Breast self-examination is a simple yet very useful practice that involves regularly touching and observing the breasts, preferably once a month, to check for lumps, irregularities, skin or nipple changes, or unusual discharges.

While self-examination cannot replace medical exams, it serves as a first level of prevention that helps identify any warning signs in a timely manner. If a woman notices a change, such as a lump or thickening in the breast tissue, she should immediately consult a doctor for further evaluation. It is important to remember that not all lumps are cancerous: many breast changes are benign, such as cysts or fibroadenomas, but it is essential to rule out the presence of a malignant tumor.

Breast Examination

The breast examination is the second level of prevention and is recommended even in the absence of symptoms. It is a clinical examination performed by a specialist, either a breast surgeon or a gynecologist, aimed at assessing the shape, consistency, and symmetry of the breasts, as well as checking the lymph nodes in the armpits and supraclavicular area, which may be involved in breast diseases.

The breast examination should be conducted regularly, even before the age of 40, especially for women with risk factors such as a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2). During the examination, the doctor may also discuss personal risk factors, offer advice on a healthy lifestyle, and plan any additional diagnostic tests, such as breast ultrasound or mammography, if necessary.

Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive and painless examination that uses ultrasound waves to examine the internal tissues of the breast. It is particularly recommended for younger women under 40, who typically have denser breast tissue, making mammogram interpretation more challenging. Ultrasound is effective in distinguishing between solid and cystic lumps (fluid-filled), and it is often used as a complementary investigation to mammography.

Ultrasound can also be useful in cases of suspicious lumps detected during self-examination or the breast examination, as it provides detailed images of breast tissue and any lesions. Unlike mammography, which uses X-rays, ultrasound does not emit radiation, making it safe for all patients, including pregnant women.

Breast ultrasound is particularly helpful for women with breast implants, as it assesses the condition of the breast tissue around the implant and identifies any abnormalities. It is important to emphasize that ultrasound does not replace mammography but serves as a complementary tool that provides additional information.

Mammography and the Role of Early Diagnosis

Starting at age 40, mammography becomes the standard examination for breast cancer prevention. It is recommended every two years or more frequently if the woman has high-risk factors. Mammography is a radiological examination that can detect even very small, non-palpable lesions at a very early stage of tumor development.

Although mammography may be uncomfortable for some women due to the breast compression required to obtain clear images, it is a critical examination for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of recovery and reduces the need for invasive treatments such as mastectomy or chemotherapy. In many cases, when the tumor is discovered in its early stages, it can be treated with conservative surgical interventions and less aggressive therapies.

Risk Factors and Primary Prevention

In addition to clinical examinations, breast cancer prevention also involves managing modifiable risk factors. Some well-known risk factors include smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle. Adopting healthy habits can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, along with regular physical activity, contributes not only to maintaining a healthy weight but also to improving overall health, thereby reducing the risk of many diseases, including cancer.

Another important aspect of primary prevention is reducing exposure to external hormones. Prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy during menopause may increase the risk of breast cancer in some women. It is crucial for each patient to discuss with their doctor the benefits and risks associated with hormone use to make informed and personalized decisions.

Genetics and Personalized Prevention

For some women, the risk of breast cancer is linked to genetic factors, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These mutations significantly increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. Women with a family history of breast cancer or who test positive for genetic mutations may consider more aggressive prevention strategies, such as intensive surveillance with more frequent examinations, the use of preventive medications, or prophylactic surgeries like mastectomy.

For these women, breast cancer prevention goes beyond routine examinations and extends to planning a personalized surveillance pathway that addresses their specific needs and conditions.

Conclusion

Breast cancer prevention is a process that involves various levels of care and attention, from monthly self-examinations to regular clinical exams such as breast examinations and ultrasounds. Every woman can play an active role in protecting her health through awareness and participation in preventive screenings. Early diagnosis remains key to improving treatment success rates and reducing mortality associated with breast cancer.