Breast cancer awareness all year round

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, second only to non-melanoma skin cancer. According to Estimates 2023 ? Incidence of Cancer in Brazil, published by the National Cancer Institute (INCA), there will be 74,000 cases of the disease a year by 2025.

This problem occurs due to a disorderly increase in breast cells, which results in the formation of abnormal cells that multiply and become tumors. In addition, there are several types of breast cancer ? from the most common to the rare and extremely serious.

Although breast cancer is more common in women over 40, it can also affect young people. Those most likely to develop this disease are those who, throughout their lives, have experienced: early menstruation or late menopause, prolonged hormone replacement, endocrine problems or genetic and hereditary factors.

Another important piece of information from the National Cancer Institute (INCA) is the mapping of breast cancer case rates. The more developed regions, such as the South and Southeast, are the ones that register the most cases of women with this disease!

It is worth noting that men can also be affected, although it is rare for any male age group. Breast tumors can appear in men over the age of 60 and in those who have previous cases of cancer in the family.

Symptoms can vary according to the patient. That's why it's essential to undergo routine examinations at the recommended intervals: mammography - every year from the age of 40 - and breast ultrasound - once a year from the age of 25.

A valuable tip for early diagnosis: take advantage of bath time to touch your breasts and familiarize yourself with them. This will make it easier to recognize any changes that may appear. The best time of the month for women who are still menstruating to get to know their breasts is right after menstruation, when the breasts are less swollen. For women who have entered the menopause, breast self-examination can be carried out at any time of the month.

In addition to this periodicity, some signs deserve special attention:

. Swelling or redness in the breast area

. Hardened lump in the breast, armpit or neck

. Breast irritation or curvature

. Breast or nipple pain

. Inversion of the nipple

. Concentration or shrinkage of the skin or nipple

. Serous or bloody discharge from the nipples

Among the measures that contribute to the primary prevention of the disease are: practicing daily physical activity, maintaining adequate body weight and adopting a healthier diet. Breastfeeding is also a protective factor.

Due to the growing number of cases, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation created the international Pink October movement in the 1990s, which annually shares information and raises awareness about breast cancer. The cause provides greater access to diagnostic and treatment services and contributes to reducing mortality in Brazil and around the world.

Take advantage of the October campaign to schedule your mammogram and reinforce preventive habits for the whole year. The earlier the disease is discovered, the greater the chances of a cure! Practice self-knowledge. Touch yourself.

Sources:

Breast cancer

https://www.inca.gov.br/sites/ufu.sti.inca.local/files/media/document/cartil1.pdf
https://www.who.int/pt/news/item/03-02-2021-breast-cancer-now-most-common-form-of-cancer-who-taking-action
https://www.sbmastologia.com.br/o-cancer-de-mama/
https://www.prefeitura.sp.gov.br/cidade/secretarias/saude/atencao_basica/index.php?p=5776

INCA launches Estimate 2023 - Cancer Incidence in Brazil

https://www.gov.br/inca/pt-br/assuntos/gestor-e-profissional-de-saude/controle-do-cancer-de-mama/conceito-e-magnitude#:~:text=O%20c%C3%A2ncer%20de%20mama%20%C3%A9%20o%20mais%20incidente%20em%20mulheres,novos%20por%20c%C3%A2ncer%20em%20mulheres.
https://www.gov.br/inca/pt-br/assuntos/gestor-e-profissional-de-saude/controle-do-cancer-de-mama/fatores-de-risco