Prof. Dr. Breast Cancer Awareness Month Warnings from Selin Kapan

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women both in the world and in Türkiye and continues to rank first in cancer-related female deaths.

General Surgery Specialist Prof. made a statement within the scope of 1-31 October Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Selin Kapan evaluated the recent developments of the disease and the critical role of early diagnosis. Emphasizing that the age range is decreasing, Prof. Dr. Kapan said, "While it was previously more common, especially after the age of 40, in recent years we have encountered a large number of breast cancer cases at younger ages. Therefore, it is vital that breast health checks are not neglected."

"NOT EVERY MASS IN THE BREAST MEANS CANCER"

In addition to self-examination, Prof. also touched upon the common misconceptions. Dr. Kapan stated that not every mass is a sign of cancer. Stating that the masses are mostly diagnosed as benign fibroadenomas or cysts, Kapan said:

"Not every mass in the breast is necessarily cancer. However, a physician's examination and age-appropriate imaging must be performed to determine the exact cause of the mass. Apart from the mass, shrinkage on the nipple or skin, bloody nipple discharge, hard lymph nodes in the armpit, and infections that do not respond to antibiotics in a non-breastfeeding woman should also be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis."

"SELF-EXAMINATION EVERY MONTH SHOULD NOT BE NEGLECTED"

Stating that self-examination routines should be carried out regularly, Prof. Dr. Kapan recommended that women who are menstruating should have an examination 4-5 days after the end of their menstruation, and that women in menopause should have an examination on a certain day of the month.

Pointing out that the risk increases in individuals with a family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives such as mother, father or sibling, Kapan pointed out the importance of genetic evaluation and personalized treatment plans and emphasized that a physician check-up should not be neglected at least once a year.