Breast cancer, one of the most common types of cancer in women, is among the diseases with a very high success rate when detected at an early stage. Therefore, regular screening, awareness of risk factors and paying attention to any changes in the breasts are of the utmost importance.

Breast cancer stands out as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Emphasising that raising awareness among women and helping them understand their own bodies is crucial in the fight against the disease, Associate Professor Dr. Ümit Turan, a General Surgeon at Medline Adana Hospital, provided important insights, noting that breast cancer does not always arise from a clear risk factor and that regular check-ups and appropriate screening programmes must not be neglected.

One in every eight women is affected by the disease

Breast cancer, the second most common cancer in women after lung cancer in developed countries, affects approximately one in every eight women. Consequently, the rise in the incidence of breast cancer further highlights the importance of early diagnosis. Detecting the disease at an early stage contributes to a wider range of treatment options and improved treatment success rates.

Not all risk factors are the same

There are numerous risk factors associated with breast cancer. These include age, family history, genetic predisposition and certain lifestyle factors. However, the presence of any risk factor does not necessarily mean that a person will definitely develop breast cancer. Similarly, breast cancer can develop in women who do not have any known risk factors. For this reason, all women should follow screening programmes appropriate to their age and personal circumstances.

Genetic predisposition increases the risk

The risk of the disease increases significantly in women with a strong family history of breast cancer or who carry certain genetic mutations associated with breast cancer. In particular, where there is a hereditary genetic predisposition, the risk can rise above 50 percent. It is particularly important to seek assessment from a physician if there are multiple cases of breast or ovarian cancer in the family, if the disease occurs at a young age, or if a known genetic mutation is present.

Changes in the body should not be ignored

Certain changes appearing in the breast or nipple, while not necessarily indicating cancer, may be symptoms that require assessment. These include a lump felt in the breast, retraction of the nipple, bloody discharge, redness or thickening of the skin, itching and flaking, or an appearance resembling an orange peel. If any of these changes are noticed, the individual should consult a physician experienced in breast health without delay.

Regular screening saves lives

For the early diagnosis of breast cancer, it is essential to follow screening programmes appropriate to one’s age, personal risk factors and family history. The recommended practices for women in the standard-risk group are generally as follows:

• From the age of 20, regular self-examination to raise breast awareness and monitor changes in the breasts,
• From the age of 35, an annual clinical breast examination carried out by a physician,
• Mammography screening every two years from the age of 40, and annually from the age of 50.

For women with a family history of breast cancer or those at high genetic risk, the starting age and method of screening may vary. It is therefore important for a physician to assess the individual’s risk profile and determine a suitable monitoring programme.