What are the ways to prevent breast cancer? General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Gürkan YETKİN gave valuable information on the subject.
It increases after the age of 30
The incidence of breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women, increases rapidly after the age of 30. Breast cancer shows a different course from person to person, some are noisy and fast, while others have a soft course. The main reason for this is that there are different subtypes of breast cancer. However, the most valuable thing is to detect breast cancer early and to treat it in the most effective way according to its stage. In order to catch breast cancer without symptoms (without causing stiffness), it is the most beneficial way for all women over a certain age to have chest cinematic at regular intervals. This is called a screening mammogram. With mammography, a breast cancer can be detected 3-4 years before it forms a mass. From the age of 40, a general surgeon should be examined and mammogram should be taken once a year. If necessary, breast ultrasonography and breast MRI can be added to mammography.
Not all masses that appear in the breast are cancer
A woman who regularly examines herself every month, apart from screening mammograms, may notice a mass in her breast earlier. However, this should not cause unnecessary fuss in individuals. Not all masses (stiffness) appearing in the breast are breast cancer. If a random mass is suspected, a physician should be examined by a general surgeon who is experienced in chest diseases.
It facilitates early stage treatment
Breast cancer is one of the cancers that responds best to treatment. The earlier the breast cancer is caught, the easier and more active the treatment. In the early stages, breast-reserving surgery, that is, only the removal of cancerous tissue, may be sufficient. Satisfactory aesthetic results can be achieved with the application of oncoplastic surgery techniques when breast-sparing surgery is performed. In more advanced stages, surgery is possible by protecting the nipple and breast skin and applying implants (silicone).
