How is breast cancer detected?

About 1 in 10 ladies will ever be diagnosed with breast cancer. But how can you actually detect breast cancer early?

Many women examine their breasts themselves. But self-examination is NOT sufficient to detect breast cancer early. All women between the ages of 50 and 69 can have a mammogram every 2 years for free. For this, they can contact their GP who will refer them to a certified radiologist. Or they can go to the mammobile every 2 years.

However, women who have family members with breast cancer should start screening earlier. Even if suspicious signs appear, an immediate doctor's visit is necessary.

We should think of breast cancer if the skin or nipple retracts, a palpable lump in the breast, orange peel skin of the breast, disappearance of the nipple, eczema of the nipple and glands in the armpit.

An ultrasound of the breast is not necessary for a screening examination. Then a mammography is sufficient.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024