Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, usually located on the second place, after skin cancer. By taking into account the current life expectancy, it was determined that approximately one woman out of eight will develop breast cancer.

The cause and the treatment of the breast cancer have not really been identified yet, but, if the cancer is found in an early stage of evolution, can be treated with good results through conservative breast surgery followed by radiotherapy. This treatment of early diagnosed cancer is ensuring a survival rate for 5 years, to 97% of cases.



What we must do to detect breast cancer early.

1. Clinical examination of the breasts. Women aged between 20 and 40 should benefit of this exam part of the overall control of the health’s state, preferably once at every three years. Women over 40 years old should be examined by a specialist once a year.


2. Mammography. The mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breasts, with very low doses of X radiation. Women over 40 years should receive an annual mammogram. If you see something suspicious, or you have members in your family who developed breast cancer, consult your doctor about the moment when you should start making this investigation. Although some cancers may not be detected by mammography, it still remains an excellent method of diagnosis.


3. Self-examination of the breast. This method for an early detection of breast cancer is really important. To have the best results from it, make it after 10 days after the menstruation. If you do not have a regular menstrual cycle, use for the examination, the same day of the month. On our site you can also find articles about self-examination techniques along with other useful information related to this subject.

What are the involved factors in the genesis of breast cancer?

Risk factors:

-         gender
-         age
-         genetic risk
-         family history
-         personal history of breast cancer
-         race
-         radiological examinations at an early age
-         biopsy
-         the  hormone replacement therapy
-         alcohol
-        obesity



Positive factors:

-         breastfeeding
-         physical exercise
-         a balanced diet

Signs and symptoms that may suggest the breast cancer existence

1. Tumor mass (swelling) in the armpit, breast or nearby. If it is painless, hard, with irregular edges, adhering to the surrounding tissue, there is a big probability to be cancerous.


2. A “coagulate” area of the breast. Through palpation, you will feel it denser than the surrounding tissues.


3. Any other secretion different than milk


4. Changes of the breast. (size and shape)


5. Skin changes (such as a pit or a folded skin)


6. Nipple pain


7. Nipple covered with scabs

If any of these signs will appear, consult a specialist immediately!! Not every change you feel in your breasts means cancer; 80% of the lumps are benign but it is better for you to let the doctor decide what investigations you need.

Things to remember:

1. Breast cancer can occur at any age but the risk is increased as we get older.


2. The risk to develop breast cancer at 70 years old is twice than it is at 50 years.


3. Early diagnosis means better chances of survival.


4. Make periodic examinations. (mammography, self-examination and clinical examination by a specialist)


5. Keep a healthy diet and make physical exercises.


6. More than 70% of the breast cancers had family history.