Breast cancer awareness has long been symbolized by the pink ribbon, serving as a crucial means of support for the men and women impacted by this disease. The American Cancer Society predicts that 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the US in 2023 [1]. Furthermore, based on data from the Global Cancer Observatory, Asia has the highest incident rate for both sexes at 45.4%, followed by Europe at 23.5%, with the lowest rates recorded in Oceania at 1.1% [2].
Regardless of sex, early detection plays a crucial role in saving lives. While the frequency of screening may vary based on individual risk factors, the importance of regular check-ups remains constant, as when breast cancer is detected within the first 5 years, the survival rate reaches an impressive 99% [3]. Therefore, it is highly important to do self-breast exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms/breast ultrasounds to detect breast cancer early.
Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a practice through which individuals examine their own breasts. Track any abnormal changes, including alterations in shape, size, texture, or the presence of lumps or secretions [4]. To avoid changes that could be linked to phases of the menstrual cycle, try to keep self-examinations on the same day every month (more information about the menstrual cycle here). With one hand over the head, use the fingertips of the other hand to palpate the breast and underarm in circular motions, feeling for any lumps or abnormalities. Repeat the same process on the other side [5]. BSE is advantageous as it is easy to perform, requires minimal resources, and ensures personal privacy [6].
Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) involves the manual physical examination of the breast by a healthcare professional to detect any abnormalities or masses in the breast tissue [7]. It is considered an accessible and cost-effective screening alternative in countries where mammography is not readily available [8].
Mammography is the most commonly used screening test as they can identify breast cancer before any symptoms arise. It involves obtaining low-dose X-ray images of the breast tissue, enabling the early detection of tumors or abnormal growths. During this procedure, the breast is compressed between two plates to ensure clear and accurate images. A previously published article concluded that mammography exhibits an accuracy rate of 89.3% in detecting breast cancer [9]. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 to 44 years have the option to begin annual mammogram screenings, while women aged 45 to 54 years must receive annual mammograms. Women aged 55 years and above should transition to a biennial screening schedule, although they may choose to continue with yearly screenings [10,11].
Breast cancer does not discriminate based on sex. As for men, a breast ultrasound is typically performed instead of a mammogram, considering their relatively smaller amount of breast tissue.
Global initiatives like Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Movember, and World Cancer Day play a pivotal role in raising awareness of breast cancer in both sexes. These campaigns reach a vast global audience, emphasizing the importance of early detection, prevention, and equal access to care for all individuals. By raising awareness, we can break down stereotypes, promote equitable access to screenings, and save lives through early detection and timely intervention.
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Written by: Phaedra
Edited by: Natasha and Maria
BioDecoded is a volunteer group committed to sharing accurate scientific information. We cannot offer any specific health advice. If you have any questions about this topic or would like to learn more, please comment below, or send us your questions.
References:
Cancer facts and figures (2023). American Cancer Society. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2023/2023-cancer-facts-and-figures.pdf (Accessed: 12 October 2023).
Breast cancer facts sheet (2020). International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available at: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/cancers/20-Breast-fact-sheet.pdf (Accessed: 12 October 2023).
Cancer Screening Guidelines (2023). American Cancer Society. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html (Accessed: 12 October 2023).
Prakash, P., et al. (2022). Assessment of knowledge on breast self-examination among female adolescent: a cross-sectional study. Clinical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5(1), 036-041. Available at: https://www.heighpubs.org/cjog/cjog-aid1104.php
Abd-Elaziz, N.M., et al (2021). Effect of Breast Self Examination Programme on Women's Awareness for Early Detection Of Breast Cancer. Minia Scientific Nursing Journal,1,10(1).132-40. Available at: https://msnj.journals.ekb.eg/article_209171.html
Shallo, S. A., and Boru, J. D. (2019). Breast self-examination practice and associated factors among female healthcare workers in West Shoa Zone, Western Ethiopia 2019: a crosssectional study. BMC research notes, 12, 1-6. Available at: https://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13104-019-4676-3
Zafar, A. (2014). Clinical Breast Examination: The Diagnostic Accuracy in Palpable Breast Lumps. The Professional Medical Journal, 21(06), 1147-1152. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271586058_CLINICAL_BREAST_EXAMINATION_THE_DIAGNOSTIC_ACCURACY_IN_PALPABLE_BREAST_LUMPS
Luo, C., et al. (2022). Advances in breast cancer screening modalities and status of global screening programs. Chronic Diseases and Translational Medicine, 8(02), 112-123. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9215717/
Zeeshan, M., et al. (2018). Diagnostic accuracy of digital mammography in the detection of breast cancer. Cureus, 10(4). Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5991925/
Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer (2022). American Cancer Society Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html (Accessed: 12 October 2023).
Taher, T. M., et al (2021). Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding mammography among women in Baghdad City, Iraq. Iraqi National Journal of Medicine 3, 80-89. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/352735242_Knowledge_Attitude_and_Practice_Regarding_Mammography_Among_Women_in_Baghdad_City_Iraq
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