Early Detection of Breast Cancer

What is Breast Cancer?

• Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the breast cells.
• It is the most common cancer among women worldwide.
• In the UAE, it is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• Newly formed retracted nipple.
• Changes in the skin of the breast or nipple.
• Changes in size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Breast mass.
• Secretions from the nipple.
• Redness or dimpling of the breast skin, resembling the texture of an orange.

How Does Breast Cancer Develop?

• Abnormal growth of breast cells that divide rapidly, forming a mass or tumor.
• These cells can spread (metastasize) to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Risk Factors

• Genetic Factors: Family history of breast or ovarian cancer, inherited mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2).
• Hormonal Factors: Early puberty (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), long-term hormone replacement therapy.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, being overweight, lack of physical activity.
• Other Factors: Radiotherapy to the chest before age 30, high breast density, or exposure to X-rays.

Early Detection

• Early detection significantly reduces mortality and increases survival rates.
• The earlier breast cancer is detected, the higher the chances of recovery.

Methods of Early Detection

Breast Self-Examination:

• Recommended monthly from age 20.
• Conduct at the end of each menstrual cycle or the beginning of each month for postmenopausal women.
• Helps familiarize women with their breasts to detect abnormal changes.

Mammogram:

• An X-ray examination of the breast and the most accurate method for early detection.
• Recommended every two years starting from age 40.
• For women under 40 with a family history, annual screenings are advised.

Treatment

• Treatments vary based on the type, stage, grade, size, and spread of the tumor.
• Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and radiotherapy.
• Early diagnosis has a high survival rate (98%).

Prevention

To reduce the risk of breast cancer:

• Maintain a healthy weight and avoid being overweight.
• Engage in regular physical exercise (30 minutes daily or 3–4 hours weekly).
• Breastfeed.
• Maintain optimal levels of vitamin D.

Healthy Nutrition Tips:

• Eat 4–5 servings of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes daily.
• Reduce processed meat, fats, and fast food.
• Avoid alcohol and choose low-calorie foods.