What you need to know about breast cancer screening

Today we are talking about a topic that is very common among women in our country, and one that scares many. That is breast cancer. But don't be afraid. Because if this cancer is detected early, it can be completely cured. So how do we detect this early? That is why there are special tests for breast cancer, called 'Breast Cancer Screenings'. Today, we will talk about everything very simply, in a way that you can understand.

What are these breast cancer screenings?

Simply put, these are medical tests that are done to see if you have cancer in your breasts. The special thing about these tests is that they can often detect the growth of cancer cells before you even feel any symptoms, such as a lump .

Imagine how great it would be if we could catch a problem inside our bodies as soon as it starts? That's what these tests do. These tests help detect cancer at an early stage, before it has grown and spread, when it is easiest to treat. Research around the world has proven time and again that these tests have saved thousands of women's lives.

Therefore, it is very important to consider factors such as your age and family medical history, and then discuss with your doctor which test is most appropriate for you and when to have it done.

What are the different methods of breast examination?

Doctors use a variety of imaging tests to look inside your breasts. Sometimes more than one test may be done. The images from these tests are analyzed by a radiologist. Let's take a look at the main methods.

Non-imaging testing methods

In addition to the methods using the above-mentioned mechanisms, there are two other methods.

• Clinical Breast Exam: In this, a doctor will physically examine your breasts and armpits to check for lumps or other changes.
• Breast Self-Exam: This involves manually examining your breasts to see if there is anything unusual (such as a lump or skin change).

But here's something to keep in mind. While these two manual tests are harmless, they haven't been proven to be very effective in preventing cancer. Never consider them a substitute for a mammogram. They're important to educate yourself about the normal state of your breasts. Then, if you notice any new changes, you can tell your doctor right away.

So, when should I take these tests?

This is the question that many people have. "Should I get a mammogram? When should I start? How often should I get it?"

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this. Your doctor will develop a plan that is best for you based on your breast cancer risk assessment . This will be influenced by factors such as:

• Age: The risk increases with age.
• Whether someone in the family has had breast cancer: especially a mother, sister, or daughter.
• Having BRCA gene mutations: These are genes that greatly increase the risk of cancer.
• Your breast density.

Your doctor will determine your risk based on these factors and advise you. Generally accepted recommendations are as follows:

• Women at average risk (ages 40-74): Mammograms are recommended every year or two . The first mammogram is best done at age 40 .
• Women at high risk: If you have risk factors like family history or the BRCA gene, it may be recommended to start screening before age 40 and get tested every year .

What are the advantages and disadvantages of these tests?

The main advantage is, as we mentioned before, that cancer can be caught at a very early stage. That greatly increases the chances of saving lives.

Speaking of risks , they are very small compared to the benefits.

• Tests like mammograms expose you to a very small amount of radiation, but that amount is within safe limits.
• Sometimes a misleading result can come up. That is, it can appear as if there is no cancer (False Positive). This can cause unnecessary fear and anxiety. In such cases, doctors will perform further tests such as an ultrasound to confirm.

What happens after the test results come in?

Doctors usually use a standard system called BI-RADS to report breast exam results. This gives your report a classification from 0 to 6. Each number has a specific meaning.

If you don't understand something in your report, ask your doctor to explain it. Results are usually available within a few days.

Should I be worried if my results are abnormal?

Absolutely not. Remember this very well.

The only test that can definitively and definitively confirm whether or not cancer is present is a breast biopsy . This involves taking a very small sample of suspicious tissue and examining it under a microscope.

What time should I see a doctor?

It is very important to be aware of your breast health. Be sure to see your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• If you notice a new lump in your breast or armpit area.
• If there is an unusual discharge (especially blood) from the nipple.
• If you notice a change such as an inverted nipple.
• If the skin color and texture of the breasts have changed (it becomes rough, red, or looks like an orange peel).
• If you are not sure about the time to take your tests or the results you received.
• If you need to schedule your next mammogram.

When life gets busy, we sometimes forget to think about our health. But a test like this is the most valuable gift you can give yourself. It can save your life. So talk to your doctor today about these tests and when to get them done. Early detection is the best protection.