Breast cancer is the most common and deadly cancer in women. More than 2 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and unfortunately, more than 600 thousand women die from breast cancer. The incidence of breast cancer in our country has increased in recent years. About half of newly diagnosed women are under the age of 50, while this rate is around 15-20% in western countries.
Breast Cancer Symptoms:
The most common finding of breast cancer is a painless mass in the breast or armpit. Retraction or collapse of the nipple or breast skin may occur. Rarely, nipple discoloration and bloody nipple discharge may be symptoms of breast cancer. In very advanced cases, sores may occur in the breast.
Why Early Diagnosis is Important:
Early diagnosis of breast cancer is very important for the success of treatment. With early diagnosis, it is possible to protect the breast and in some cases, even chemotherapy is not needed.
Importance of Screening in Breast Cancer:
The most important factor in early diagnosis is the establishment of women's screening programs and the early detection of women with screening programs. Studies have shown that; In women over 40 years of age, 20-25% survival advantage can be achieved by screening with mammography.
For this reason, we recommend our women to have a mammogram once a year and to be examined by a breast surgeon or general surgeon.
Prevention from Breast Cancer:
In general, a healthy life and a healthy diet are the most important protective factors against all types of cancer. It is essential that eating habits and exercise are regular and correct. Plenty of fresh and seasonally harvested fruits and vegetables, green varieties are recommended. Reducing the amount of animal protein as much as possible, instead of increasing vegetable-based proteins (pulses such as lentils, chickpeas, beans) as much as possible, and consuming green vegetables, especially broccoli, are foods that have been shown to be beneficial. In addition, it has been shown that obesity predisposes to various cancers as well as cardiovascular diseases. In this respect, it is very important not to gain weight and to get rid of excess weight, if any. It has been shown that regular exercise for 5-7 hours a week has a protective effect against breast cancer and other cancer types. We also recommend doing regular exercise in order to protect both individual and public health.