Let’s Talk About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer remains the most common malignant tumor in women, not only worldwide but also in Mexico. It is the type of cancer that causes the most deaths.

Why Are We Seeing More Cases of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer has steadily increased, largely due to lifestyle factors, population aging, overweight/obesity, alcohol and tobacco use, postponing or not having children, long-term hormonal contraceptive use, lack of breastfeeding, and limited education on early detection.

How Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

• Educational communication in schools to help recognize risk factors.
• Promote healthy lifestyles: physical exercise 4-5 days a week, prevent overweight, encourage breastfeeding, and avoid smoking and alcohol.

What Are the Tools for Early Breast Cancer Detection?

• Monthly self-exams (7 days after menstruation ends).
• Professional breast exams once a year.
• Ultrasounds for women with lumps under 35 years old.
• A combination of mammogram and breast ultrasound for women starting at age 40.

Understanding Ultrasound and Mammogram Reports

The BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) system is used, categorized from 0 to 6:

• BI-RADS 0: Incomplete study.
• BI-RADS 1: Negative, no findings to report.
• BI-RADS 2: Benign findings.
• BI-RADS 3: Probably benign, requires follow-up every 6 months for 2 years.
• BI-RADS 4: Suspicious for malignancy; a biopsy is recommended for pathology study.
• BI-RADS 5: Highly suggestive of malignancy.
• BI-RADS 6: Malignancy confirmed by pathology, for those already treated or awaiting treatment.

Myths About Breast Cancer

• Mammograms cause cancer due to radiation: Radiation dosage is low; electronic devices collectively contribute more radiation than a mammogram.
• Having small breasts prevents breast cancer: False, breast size doesn’t matter.
• Underwire bras and deodorants cause breast cancer: There is no conclusive evidence supporting this.
• Men don’t get breast cancer: 1% of breast cancer cases occur in men.
• All women with breast cancer have family history: False, most women with breast cancer have no family history.
• Cancer is painless: False, it can cause pain depending on its location.
• Self-exams alone are sufficient: False, imaging studies are essential as they can detect small nodules or calcifications that are not detectable by touch.

Early detection is crucial for a positive prognosis. Schedule your annual check-up with your trusted gynecologist.

Dr. Esther Iyune Cojab – Gynecologist-Obstetrician

Human Reproduction Biologist

CP 10926456

Now that we’ve shared some information about breast cancer and the importance of early detection, we’d like to know what other questions or concerns you have about Advanced Fertility Center Cancun that our medical team can address. Feel free to share them in the comments.

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Let’s Talk About Breast Cancer

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