Early detection is the key to prevention

In order to sensitize and inform about the subject is that you stated on October 19 as the Day world of the fight against Breast Cancer. This day aims to promote health and above all install the importance of early detection, to improve the prognosis and survival of breast cancer cases.

Breast cancer is the most common among women around the world, the WHO indicates that this disease is 16% of the cancers that affect the female population. This can be detected in time and achieve adequate treatment. The majority of women diagnosed in early stages (I and II) the treatment, they have a good prognosis showing a survival rate at 5 years of 80% to 90%. (Data PAHO 2017)

There are information programs, education and counseling that increases the knowledge of women about the risk factors, signs and symptoms making a real awareness of the disease.

The Dr. Gareth Owen, research associate ACCDiS and Professor at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, He gave us this useful and relevant information:

Some myths about breast cancer.

Myth 1. A lump in your breast means you have breast cancer

Only a small percentage of breast lumps are cancerous. But if there is a persistent lump in the breast or any changes in breast tissue, always consult a physician for a clinical breast exam.

Myth 2. If you have a family history of breast cancer, will also develop breast cancer.

Only around 10% of people who have breast cancer have a family history of this disease. The majority of women diagnosed with cancer have no family history.

Myth 3. Breast cancer is contagious.

Breast cancer (or any other cancer) It can not be detected by someone or it can be transferred to someone. It is a non-contagious disease resulting from the uncontrolled cell growth of breast tissue.

Myth 4. A mammogram can cause the spread of breast cancer.

A mammogram, or breast x-ray helps in the early detection of breast cancer. This can save your life ! Mammography requires a very small dose of radiation. The risk of this radiation damage is extremely low.

Tips for breast cancer prevention

  • Is important self-examination of the breasts. Women should be aware of how you look and your breasts normally feel. If you feel any change, then consult a doctor.
    Remember that the vast majority of the breast lumps are not cancer.
  • It is recommended that women who have around 40 have a mammogram. Mammography is a simple radiographic technique that helps to detect irregularities in the breast tissue.
    Remember, a cancer detected early is not a life-threatening!
  • Include fruits and vegetables in your diet, It helps to maintain a healthy body weight and reduces the incidence of breast cancer. Do not smoke or drink alcohol in excess.
  • For new mothers, It is recommended to breastfeed their children for at least a year. Breastfeeding mothers are less likely to get breast cancer. The baby is also less likely to be obese in later life!
  • 20 years of age aware of breast cancer, It is advisable to take a screening test regularly by a qualified physician, to be able to detect early and treat successfully.
    Early detection is the key to prevention.