Health
Monday, 28 September 2009 02:09
Written by Dr. Ninni Ji

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Risks, screening and detection of the disease

Breast Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases for women the world over. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in the United States, and the leading overall cause of cancer death in women between the ages of 20 and 59. One in eight women worldwide will develop breast cancer by the age of 80.

Who is at risk?
Everybody should be aware of the risk, but some women more so than others. The risk of breast cancer increases as women get older and most breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. Those who have a family history of breast cancer have a higher chance of developing the disease, as do those who have taken hormone replacement therapy over a prolonged period of time. Early detection is the best tool to prevent the spread of breast cancer and a crucial part of an overall strategy for successful treatment.

What is the best method of detection?
Regular breast self-examinations and clinical examinations by a healthcare professional are important, but mammography is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, often before a lump is even large enough to be felt.

Who should have a screening?
Mammograms are generally recommended for women, beginning at 40 years of age. However, this recommended age does vary depending on contributing factors such as family history. If there is any doubt, it is best to start early and test often.

Examining your own breasts
Many women feel that breast self-examinations are a complicated procedure and that they do not have enough medical training to examine themselves. This is NOT the case. Nobody knows your body better than you do and you are the best person to notice any changes. Breast self-examinations should be completed at least once a month. The best time to perform the examination is in the week after your period. During breast self-examination, you should look out for the following changes:

• Swelling within parts of the breast
• Skin irritation or dimpling of the skin
• Nipple pain or the nipple turning inwards
• Red or scaly appearance of the nipple or skin
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk
• A lump in the underarm are

Pain or discomfort is not usually a symptom of early breast cancer, but if you notice any of the above changes or worrisome areas, schedule an examination with your doctor right away. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the higher the chances of recovery.

Dr. Sharon Hsu, PhD, is a clinical psychologist at Shanghai United Family Hospital

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