Breast examination: breast screening for the prevention of breast cancer
The breast examination is a fundamental assessment to be carried out for breast cancer, the prospects for recovery have doubled compared to those of their mothers twenty years ago. And they are very high (98% survival at 5 years) if the disease is intercepted at an early stage. Thanks to oncological therapies, which have made great strides, gradually becoming more effective and less invasive.
And it is thanks to the anticipation of diagnoses: by discovering a smaller tumor, the chances of radically removing it increase, and with minimally invasive interventions. The key word to achieve this goal is the so-called secondary prevention, or checks suitable for each woman, based on age and personal history. For this reason, breast screening is essential, as is self-examination: if you don't know how to do it, here is a tutorial:
Breast examination: what it is and why it is so important for breast cancer prevention
The breast examination consists of a complete examination of the breast carried out by a breast specialist or a gynecologist, which is completely painless. The purpose of the visit is to exclude any pathologies or, if something suspicious has been found, proceed with further tests to obtain a certain diagnosis.
The breast examination is therefore very important to detect the presence of nodules, secretions or inflammation, thus preventing a possible course and worsening of breast cancer.
How does the breast examination take place? It hurts?
The breast examination is completely painless and does not require any special equipment. The doctor proceeds to the observation and palpation of the breast, immediately after analyzing the patient's clinical history and having informed himself about her habits and lifestyle.
Doctor's observation and palpation are similar to the self-examination recommended for all women as an effective means of prevention. The doctor evaluates the temperature of the skin and the possible presence of edema (fluid in excess tissues) or nodules.
At the end of the visit (which generally lasts no more than a quarter of an hour), the doctor can recommend further visits, such as mammography or breast ultrasound.
The importance of prevention: here is the wonderful story of Lysandra!
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Breast screening: mammography or ultrasound for breast cancer prevention
Mammography consists of an X-ray of the breast, which is very useful for identifying even the smallest nodules. Thanks to X-rays, it is possible to immediately identify the presence in the tissues of tumors not yet detectable by touch.
Breast ultrasound, on the other hand, uses ultrasound to analyze the breast and understand if the nodules have a usual or liquid consistency. This examination is essential if the breast examination or the mammogram itself have left doubts about the presence or absence of nodules.
Breast examination: when to start with breast screening?
Is it enough to think about 50 years? No, according to experts. The share of breast cancers affecting young women under the age of 40 remains a minority (around 7% of new diagnoses), but is constantly increasing. It would be important to start making the first breast examinations between the ages of 25 and 30, not forgetting to carry out the self-examination regularly.
In the event that a symptom of any kind arises, it is better to immediately contact a specialist, at any age.
Practical information on the breast examination for the prevention of breast cancer
The National Health System provides for a mammogram every two years for all women between 50 and 69 years of age, in accordance with international guidelines and in order to optimize the relationship between costs and benefits. Depending on the Regions, however, the ages and the frequency of the exams may vary. And, unfortunately, also the coverage of a service that should be, at least in the offer, uniform throughout the country.
Mammography can be booked at any public facility. However, waiting times can be long, even more than a year. It is therefore good to think about it in time and plan appointments with peace of mind, as these are examinations on people who do not have alarm bells, in which case the doctor is required to assign a priority code. Privately, however, the cost of the exam can range from 50-60 euros to approximately 170 euros.
However, it is important to contact expert centers, as modern and controlled equipment, adequately trained personnel, proximity to the care services make the difference in terms of accuracy and reduce the aforementioned risk of overdiagnosis.
And for those already fighting the cancer battle, may these photos of brave women inspire them:
