Breast Cancer: Prevention, Early Signs & Cure
Did You Know?
0.5-1% of breast cancers occur in men.
Breast cancer can affect men too! Although rare, men too can get breast cancer, contrary to the widespread notion that this form of cancer only affects women.
According to Globocan 2020 report, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in females and males, about 21.4%. Additionally, it affected 38.8% of females of all ages in the UAE in 2020.
October is designated as the Pink month of support and awareness about breast cancer. Dedicated to those affected by this deadly disease, the world comes out to show solidarity with everyone impacted.
In 2020, nearly 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide, and an estimated 685000 people lost their lives due to this deadly disease.
Breast cancer, though commonly associated with women, also affects men, albeit rarely. According to the Globocan 2020 report, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide, impacting both females and males. In the UAE, breast cancer accounted for 38.8% of cancer diagnoses in females in 2020.
October is globally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and showing support for those affected. Early detection is crucial, as timely diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Symptoms of breast cancer include lumps or swelling in the breast or armpit, skin irritation, nipple discharge, and pain in the nipple area.
Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, routine physical activity, avoiding smoking, controlling alcohol intake, and being aware of family history. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Detection methods include mammograms, breast ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies, each playing a crucial role in identifying and diagnosing the disease. The UAE’s Ministry of Health & Prevention has launched campaigns emphasizing the importance of early detection and regular screenings at various designated locations.
Pharma Solutions, a UAE-based pharmaceutical platform, supports the fight against cancer by prioritizing effective cancer care drugs. With operations in over 14 countries, Pharma Solutions is committed to enhancing patient care through innovative pharmaceutical solutions. For more information on cancer drugs in the UAE, connect with Pharma Solutions today.
Let’s take a look at all the breast cancer symptoms.
Early Signs & Symptoms Of Breast Cancer
- Lump or swelling in the breast or armpit
- Redness or flaky skin in the breast
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
- Nipple discharge
- Nipple pulling inward
- Pain in the nipple area
- Nipple discharge (blood discharge or anything other than breast milk)
Breast cancer symptoms may vary, and some may remain asymptomatic as well. Even though it is not yet ascertained what causes breast cancer, lifestyle factors and family history have a crucial role to play.
Let’s dig deep and know what can help prevent or may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
How To Avoid Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is influenced by various factors, some of which can be controlled to reduce risk. Here are more detailed strategies for avoiding breast cancer:
Routine Physical Activity
Engaging in regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers estrogen levels, which can reduce breast cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower this risk.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking is linked to many cancers, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.
Control Alcohol Intake
Alcohol consumption is directly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Limit alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women.
Limit or Avoid Menopausal Hormonal Therapy
Extended use of combined hormone therapy (estrogen and progestin) increases the risk of breast cancer. Discuss alternative treatments for menopausal symptoms with your doctor.
Be Aware of Family History
If you have a family history of breast cancer, particularly in close relatives, consider genetic counseling and regular screenings. Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk.
Increase Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding for a total of one year or more (combined for all children) can slightly lower breast cancer risk. Breastfeeding reduces the number of menstrual cycles a woman has, thereby lowering hormone levels.
Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and red meat, can help reduce cancer risk. Consider foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
Regular Screening and Self-Exams
Regular mammograms and self-exams can help detect breast cancer early. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Women over 40 should have an annual mammogram, while those with higher risk factors may need to start earlier and have additional tests.
By adopting these lifestyle changes and being proactive about health screenings, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.
The Ministry of Health & Prevention recently launched a national breast cancer awareness campaign emphasizing the significance of early detection of breast cancer.
The ministry has designated locations to conduct breast cancer screening tests. Women have been screened at:
- The University of Sharjah
- Sharjah Mega Mall
- Ajman City Center
- City Walk Dubai
- The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
The ministry continues to emphasize the importance of early breast cancer screening and offer prevention advice.
But the question is, is breast cancer curable?
The answer is Yes if detected early. It only becomes more complicated when it begins to spread.
According to the National Cancer Registry (NCR) statistics, breast cancer accounted for 11.6% of cancer deaths in 2019—one of the most common diseases and a leading cause of death worldwide.
In the UAE, breast cancer caused 222 deaths in 2020, followed by lung cancer.
Ways To Detect Breast Cancer
Mammogram
Mammograms are generally used for breast cancer screening and give doctors a better view of the lumps and other associated problems. In case the doctor detects any abnormality during the screening mammogram, the expert may recommend a further diagnostic mammogram for a more detailed analysis. A “mammogram” device detects breast cancer in 40+ women.
Breast Ultrasound
A breast ultrasound is not typically a screening test and is carried out to check if the abnormality detected is a cyst filled with fluid or a solid tumor. It uses high-energy sound waves to make computer pictures of the breast.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is not carried out as a screening test for women who are at lesser risk of breast cancer.
MRI makes detailed breast pictures with the help of radio waves and strong magnets.
Biopsy
A biopsy is recommended if the mammogram suggests suspicion.
The doctor takes a sample of breast tissue or fluid and sends it to the lab for further diagnosis. A breast biopsy is performed to check whether the suspicious area is cancerous.
Conclusion
Pharma Solutions, a UAE-based pharmaceutical platform, has been leading the fight against cancer in the UAE by prioritizing drugs for assistance in cancer care.
With commercial activities in 14+ countries of the GCC and MENA region, Pharma Solutions is on a mission to provide effective solutions to enhance patients’ quality of life.
The team of experienced professionals at Pharma Solutions possesses extensive knowledge in facilitating licensing, commercialization, marketing, and the distribution of FDA/EMA-approved innovative pharmaceuticals in the UAE.
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