Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, although it can also occur in men. Detecting it early and being aware of the risk factors are key to improving treatment and recovery outcomes.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
In its early stages, breast cancer often does not cause symptoms, which makes screening tests essential. However, some warning signs you should not ignore include:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm.
- Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
- Thickening or swelling in part of the breast.
- Breast or nipple pain.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk.
- Skin irritation, redness, or flaking.
What factors increase the risk of breast cancer?
There are factors that cannot be modified and others that depend on lifestyle:
- Non-modifiable factors: Being a woman, age over 50, family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), high breast density, early onset of menstruation, or late menopause.
- Modifiable factors: Overweight after menopause, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, not having a pregnancy or having one after age 30, and long-term use of hormone therapy.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is essential. To achieve this, doctors use tools such as:
- Mammogram: An imaging test that can identify tumors even before they can be felt.
- Ultrasound and MRI: Complement the evaluation in specific cases.
- Biopsy: Confirms the presence of cancerous cells when an abnormality is detected.
Can breast cancer be prevented?
Although it cannot always be prevented, risks can be reduced with healthy habits:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
- Breastfeed if possible.
- Discuss the use of hormone therapies with your doctor.
Additionally, getting regular mammograms starting at age 40—or earlier if you have a family history—can make the difference between early and late diagnosis.
What treatments are currently available?
Treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease. Some of the most common options include:
- Surgery: May be conservative (lumpectomy) or more extensive (mastectomy).
- Radiation therapy: Destroys cancer cells that may remain after surgery.
- Chemotherapy and hormone therapy: Reduce or eliminate malignant cells throughout the body.
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapy: Used in specific cases, such as HER2-positive or triple-negative breast cancer.
Medical advances now allow for more personalized treatments with better results, focusing not only on survival but also on quality of life.
Conclusion: Why is it important to get screened on time?
Breast cancer is a serious condition, but early detection can save lives. Don’t wait for symptoms: schedule your medical checkups and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
At Salus, we have Imaging Centers in Guaynabo, Hato Rey, and Carolina where you can undergo preventive breast cancer screenings. Visit our medical directory and book your appointment today.