A lump is just of the the signs of breast cancer people need to be aware of. Expert Dr Susanna Unsworth has shared advice on the symptoms and treatments of breast cancer, along with proactive steps to help aid early detection and lower the risk of disease....CONTINUE READING
Breast cancer can present with many different symptoms. Whilst they don’t always mean cancer, Dr Unsworth recommends speaking to a GP if you experience any of the following:
Treatment for breast cancer has improved dramatically over the last 50 years, and treatment approaches are now very individualised to each diagnosis.
Treatments consider several factors: grade of cancer, stage of cancer, hormone status, menopausal status and other underlying health factors, as well as genetic factors which can be used to predict how well someone will respond to specific treatments.
Depending on diagnosis, the below treatments are used:
The exact causes of breast cancer are still not fully understood. However, there are lifestyle interventions and treatments that can reduce the risk.
Lifestyle factors: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and reducing alcohol intake have all been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer (and other cancers too).
Self-examination: Being breast-aware is very important – you are the best-placed person to identify changes in your breast.
Self-examination involves looking at your breasts using a mirror, with arm movements up and down to see if there are any changes in shape, as well as physically examining the whole of the breast, including the nipple and also under the arm.
It is best to do this lying down and standing, for example, in the shower. Dr Unsworth recommends self-examination once a month – the week after your period is often the best time as this is when the breasts are least tender and less naturally lumpy.
If you do not have periods, aim to check at the same time each month (1st of the month can be easy to remember). Any changes should be reported to your GP.
Breast screening can also help identify early signs of cancer before it presents with symptoms. Women are invited to undergo screening every three years, from age 50 to 70. Screening involves having a mammogram – which is an Xray of both breasts.
Prophylactic surgery (surgery performed before cancer has developed to prevent the disease). Whilst most breast cancers occur spontaneously and are unrelated to genetic factors, around 5-10% occur due to the presence of a specific gene mutation, most commonly a mutation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (‘BReast CAncer’).
These mutations significantly increase the chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer. If you have a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, you may be offered prophylactic surgery. This might include a bilateral mastectomy and/or oophorectomy (removal of ovaries).
Regular self-examination is a vital step that can lead to early detection and increased chances of successful treatment.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s embark on a journey of awareness, compassion, and hope as we strive to make a difference and support those affected by breast cancer…CONTINUE READING>>
