Contributed by Healthians Team
After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women, regardless of race or ethnicity. But it is also one of the easiest cancers to treat, provided it is detected early. Early cancer detection focuses on identifying symptomatic patients at the earliest possible stage to improve cancer outcomes. So, the trick is catching cancer early and treating it effectively.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
- A new lump in the breast or underarm (armpit)
- Changes in breast texture including dimpling of skin
- Change in breast size and shape
- Redness/ flaky skin in the nipple area
- Discharge in nipples
- Pain or irritation in the breast
- Thickening or puckering of skin
Breast Cancer Detection Techniques
A primary breast examination, also known as screening, is performed to detect the presence of any cancerous masses in the breast. The following are some of the most popular breast cancer detection methods:
- Mammography
- Breast Screening
- Breast Ultrasound
Other medical tests, such as a biopsy and imaging tests, such as a Breast MRI, may be ordered by the doctor for a confirmed diagnosis and to assess the stage of cancer.
Mammography
A low-dose x-ray of the breasts known as a mammogram is the safest way to detect breast cancer early. Mammograms can detect cancer up to three years before symptoms appear. Checking your breasts isn’t enough. The best way to reduce the effects of breast cancer is to get a mammogram since cancers caught early are easier to handle. That’s why it’s important to get mammograms as recommended, to know how your breasts normally look, and to notify any changes to your doctor.
Self Exam, Clinical Detection
Clinical breast examination is one of the early breast cancer screening methods. Breast cancer can be detected with a routine breast examination performed by a woman or a doctor. Touching, checking the breasts visually for some variations, and having it tested by the doctor are all part of the procedure. Your doctor will conduct a professional examination of the breasts, underarm and collarbone areas to check for lumps or other changes.
Breast Ultrasound
The ultrasound produces accurate images of the interior of the breasts by using high-frequency sound waves. Your doctor is most likely to use this imaging technique to diagnose breast lumps or other abnormalities found during a physical exam, mammogram or breast MRI. A breast ultrasound may also be performed on women who should avoid radiation, such as:
- women who are under 25 years
- women who are pregnant
- women who are breastfeeding
- women with silicone breast implants
Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound is safe, non-invasive, and does not use radiation. Since ultrasound provides real-time images, it is often used to guide biopsy procedures.
The only way to protect yourself from any illness is to educate yourself. In the case of breast cancer, knowledge is power. Remember to take extra precautions if you are over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer. Regularly perform a breast test. Keep your eyes open for breast cancer signs and symptoms. Every year, get a mammogram. Maintain a healthy weight by eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Simple precautions will help you reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. We have an excellent article on breast cancer myths. We hope you find the article informative for yourself.
