World Breast Cancer Awareness Month: One in every 8 women is at risk, early diagnosis saves lives

Experts made important warnings within the scope of the studies carried out throughout October to raise awareness against breast cancer. Surgical Oncology and General Surgery Specialist Dr. from the Department of Oncological Surgery. Musluh Hakseven stated that breast cancer occurs as a result of abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation of cells and can metastasize to distant areas.

Stating that there is no specific age range for breast cancer, Dr. Hakseven noted that the risk increases with age, especially at the age of 40 and beyond, but they can also encounter this diagnosis at the age of 20-25. Dr. states that new changes in the breast that have not existed before, mass, pain, nipple retraction, redness, orange peel appearance or symmetry disorders are suspicious. Hakseven stated that when such symptoms are detected, a doctor should be consulted without delay.

"WE HAVE DIFFICULTY CONVINCING OUR PATIENTS ABOUT MAMMOGRAPHY"

Emphasizing that the beliefs that mammography is harmful and causes cancer due to radiation do not reflect the truth, Dr. Hakseven made the following evaluations:

"We have a hard time convincing our patients about mammography. Mammography is a test that can detect breast cancer in the early stages, even before the cells become aggressive. However, we have a hard time when our patients avoid mammography. Therefore, mammography does not have such harm. Mammography is a simple, cheap and accessible diagnostic method."

RISK FACTORS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS

Pointing out that thanks to early diagnosis, patients can often be treated without the need for more severe surgeries and intensive chemotherapy. Hakseven listed the risk factors that trigger breast cancer as follows:

Early menstruation and late menopause

Having fewer or no births

NOT BREASTFEEDING

Sedentary life, fatty diet, alcohol and cigarette use

Dr. stated that one in every 8 women is at risk of breast cancer and this rate is around 12 percent for women. Hakseven stated that millions of new breast cancer diagnoses are made every year in the world. Reminding that women should definitely do self-examination, experts pointed out the importance of checking asymmetry and shyness in front of the mirror, as well as participating in free screening programs carried out by the Ministry of Health in KETEMs and family health centers.