Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, second only to non-melanoma skin cancer. According to the 2023 Estimate: Cancer Incidence in Brazil, a publication by the National Cancer Institute (INCA), there will be 74,000 cases of the disease per year by 2025.<\/p>\n
This problem occurs due to the uncontrolled growth of breast cells, which leads to the formation of abnormal cells that multiply and develop into tumors. In addition, there are several types of breast cancer\u2014ranging from the most common to the rare and extremely serious.<\/p>\n
Although breast cancer is more common in women over 40, it can also affect younger women. Those most likely to develop this disease are women who, over the course of their lives, have experienced: early menarche or late menopause, prolonged hormone replacement therapy, endocrine problems, or genetic and hereditary factors.<\/p>\n
Another important finding from the National Cancer Institute (INCA) concerns the mapping of breast cancer incidence rates. The most developed regions, such as the South and Southeast, have the highest number of reported cases of women with this disease!<\/p>\n
It is worth noting that men can also be affected, although it is rare in men of any age group. Breast tumors can occur in men over the age of 60 and in those with a family history of cancer.<\/p>\n
Symptoms can vary from patient to patient. Therefore, it is essential to undergo routine screenings at the recommended intervals: mammograms\u2014every year starting at age 40\u2014and breast ultrasounds\u2014once a year starting at age 25.<\/p>\n
A valuable tip for early diagnosis: take advantage of your shower time to feel your breasts and get to know them. This makes it easier to recognize any changes that may arise. For women who are still menstruating, the best time of the month to perform a breast self-exam is right after their period, when the breasts are less swollen. For women who have gone through menopause, the exam can be performed at any time of the month.<\/p>\n
In addition to these check-ups, certain signs warrant special attention:<\/p>\n
. Swelling or redness in the breast area<\/p>\n
. A hard lump in the breast, armpit, or neck<\/p>\n
. Breast irritation or lumps<\/p>\n
. Breast or nipple pain<\/p>\n
. Inverted nipple<\/p>\n
. Thickening or shrinking of the skin or nipple<\/p>\n
. Serous or bloody discharge from the nipples<\/p>\n
Measures that contribute to the primary prevention of the disease include daily physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, and adopting a healthier diet. Breastfeeding is also a protective factor.<\/p>\n
Due to the rising number of cases, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation launched the international Pink October campaign in the 1990s, which annually shares information and raises awareness about breast cancer. The cause provides greater access to diagnostic and treatment services and helps reduce mortality rates in Brazil and around the world.<\/p>\n
Take advantage of the October campaign to schedule a mammogram and reinforce preventive habits for the whole year. The earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chances of a cure! Get to know your body. Check yourself.<\/p>\n