Breast Cancer Awareness in Women: Know It, Check It, Beat It
Breast cancer is a frightening phrase to hear. But the more you know about it, the better your chances of catching it in time.
In Pakistan, about one in nine women has a risk of getting breast cancer at some point in her life. The encouraging part is that when it is found early, it's much easier to treat, So let's understand it better.
What is Breast Cancer?
It starts when cells in the breast grow abnormally.
These cells can form a lump. If not treated, they can spread over time.
Causes of Breast Cancer
There's no single cause, but some things can increase the risk:
- Getting older
- A family history of breast cancer
- Inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
- Being overweight, especially after menopause
- Drinking alcohol
- Lack of exercise
- Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for a long time
- Previous radiation treatment to the chest
Having a risk factor does not mean you will get cancer. Many women with breast cancer have none.
Symptoms: What to Look For
Know how your breasts normally look and feel. Then watch for changes:
- A new lump or swelling in the breast or armpit
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpled skin, or a nipple that turns inwards
- Nipple discharge, rash or pain
Most lumps are not cancer. But never ignore one.
How to Check Yourself
It takes about five minutes. Do it every month.
Look in the mirror
- Stand with arms at your sides, then raise them overhead
- Check the size, shape, skin dimpling, and changes in the nipple
Feel while standing or in the shower
- Use the flat of your three middle fingers
- Move in small circles, starting from the nipple and going out to the armpit
Feel lying down
- Put a pillow under your shoulder, arm behind your head
- Check each breast the same way
Check the nipple
- Gently squeeze and look for any fluid or blood
Pick the right day
- A few days after your period ends
- After menopause, choose one fixed date each month
See a doctor if you notice a change
- A new lump, skin change or discharge needs a check, even if it does not hurt
When Should You Get Screened?
Pink Ribbon Pakistan suggest the following:
- From age 20: monthly self-exam
- After age 30: yearly clinical exam by a doctor
- After age 40: regular mammogram, as advised by your doctor
In Pakistan, more young women are being diagnosed with breast cancer. So don't wait for symptoms.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
The type of treatment is decided by how large the cancer is and what kind it is.
Surgery is usually the main treatment, and some women also need radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
Early detection keeps treatment simpler and greatly improves survival. Studies show over 80% of women survive five years when it is found early.
Wrapping Up
Breast cancer is not a shameful word. It is a treatable disease.
Check yourself regularly, get screened on time, and speak to your doctor about anything unusual.
And share this with the women you love.