Why breast cancer screening?

Mammography is considered the "gold standard" in breast cancer screening, able to detect small lesions even before they can be felt.

The vital importance of screening and early detection

Breast cancer is a global health burden and is the most common cancer among Vietnamese women. However, the disease can be treated effectively if detected at an early stage.

According to Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Cam Phuong, Bach Mai Hospital, the latest statistics from Globocan 2020 show the alarming level of breast cancer. In Vietnam, this is the type of cancer with the highest incidence rate in women and even ranks first when considering both sexes.

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

Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Cam Phuong emphasized that if breast cancer is detected at a very early stage (stage 0, stage 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.

Early detection not only increases the chance of cure but also makes the treatment process gentler, less expensive and preserves the patient's function and aesthetics.

According to this expert, people at high risk of breast cancer include: People with BRCA1, BRCA2 gene mutations or have a family member (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer; have had precancerous or cancerous lesions in one breast; Women who have had early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), do not give birth or give birth to their first child late (after age 30), do not breastfeed; lifestyle: Overweight, obese, sedentary, regularly use alcohol; women with dense mammary gland structure on X-ray images.

Recognize early signs of breast cancer

Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Cam Phuong recommends that women should perform some simple screening methods at home such as breast self-examination at home, which should be done monthly, preferably 5-7 days after menstruation ends.

When the body shows signs such as feeling a tumor, hard lump or abnormally thick tissue in the breast or armpit area; changes in size or shape of the breast; breast skin is pulled, sunken, thickened, or has an "orange peel" appearance; nipples are inverted, have unusual discharge (especially bloody discharge); pain or discomfort in a breast or armpit area unrelated to the menstrual cycle, you need to see a doctor immediately.

During a clinical examination at a medical facility, your doctor will professionally examine your breasts and armpits to detect signs that you may miss.

In addition, mammography is considered the "gold standard" in breast cancer screening, capable of detecting small lesions even before they can be felt. Breast ultrasound used in combination with mammography is especially effective in young women and those with dense breast tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): For those at very high risk (carrying mutated genes, complex family history) for more in-depth screening.

In addition to regular screening, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk: Maintain a healthy weight, avoid obesity; increase physical activity, exercise regularly; minimize alcohol; breastfeed; eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits; comprehensive treatment and restore quality of life

At Bach Mai Hospital, breast cancer treatment is approached in a multidisciplinary model. In particular, aesthetic and psychological issues after treatment are also given top priority.

With the advancements of modern medicine, early screening for breast cancer and regular check-ups are the key to minimizing risks and protecting the health of yourself and your family. Knowledge is power and early action is opportunity.

THIEN LAMB

Source: https://nhandan.vn/vi-sao-can-sang-loc-ung-thu-vu-post912956.html