Who is at risk of developing breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a global health burden and the most common cancer among women in Vietnam. It has the highest incidence rate among women and is even the leading type of cancer in both sexes when considering all cancers.

Mammography is considered the "gold standard" in breast cancer screening, capable of detecting small lesions even before they can be felt - Photo: BVCC

Who is at risk of developing breast cancer?

According to Dr. Pham Cam Phuong, Director of the Center for Nuclear Medicine and Oncology at Bach Mai Hospital, the latest statistics from Globocan 2020 show an alarming rate of breast cancer.

The most important thing to remember is that the effectiveness of treatment depends greatly on the stage at which the disease is detected.

Dr. Phuong emphasized: "If breast cancer is detected at a very early stage (stage 0 or 1), the 5-year survival rate can reach 98-100%. However, when detected at a late stage (stage 4), when the cancer has metastasized, this rate drops to only about 25-30%. This difference shows the vital importance of screening and early detection."

Those at high risk for breast cancer include:

Genetic factors: Individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, or those with a family history of breast cancer (mother, sisters, daughters).

Personal history: Has previously had precancerous or cancerous lesions in one breast.

Hormonal factors: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), not having children or having the first child late (after age 30), not breastfeeding.

Lifestyle factors: Overweight, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, frequent alcohol consumption.

Breast characteristics: Women with dense breast tissue appear on X-ray images.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer

According to doctors, common signs of breast cancer include: feeling a lump, hard mass, or unusual thickening of tissue in the breast or armpit; changes in the size or shape of the breast; breast skin that is retracted, indented, thickened, or has an "orange peel" appearance; nipple retraction; unusual discharge (especially bloody discharge); pain or discomfort in the breast or armpit unrelated to the menstrual cycle.

Dr. Phuong recommends that women undergo regular screening through the following methods:

Breast self-examination at home: This is the first and simplest step. Women should do this monthly, ideally 5-7 days after their period ends. This helps you become familiar with your body and detect any unusual changes early.

Clinical examination at a medical facility: The doctor will professionally examine your breasts and armpits to detect any signs you might be overlooking.

Mammography: This is considered the "gold standard" in breast cancer screening, capable of detecting small lesions even before they can be felt.

Breast ultrasound: Often used in conjunction with X-rays, it is particularly effective in young women and those with dense breast tissue.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): For individuals at very high risk (carrying the mutated gene, complex family history) for more in-depth screening.

What can be done to prevent breast cancer?

Besides regular screenings, a healthy lifestyle can help minimize the risk of breast cancer, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity; increasing physical activity and exercising regularly; minimizing alcohol consumption; breastfeeding; and following a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Early detection not only increases the chances of a cure but also makes treatment gentler, less expensive, and preserves the patient's function and appearance.

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WILLOW

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/ai-co-nguy-co-mac-ung-thu-vu-20251006203839398.htm