2023-10-17 20:35:00
“It is important for people to feel safe to address these concerns in a timely manner with their doctor. “We have made great progress in detecting breast cancers at much earlier and more treatable stages.”
(HealthDay News) — The vast majority of women know that a lump in their breast probably indicates the presence of cancer, according to a new survey, but that is not the only sign of the disease.
“Screening mammography is our primary defense in detecting and addressing breast cancers in their earliest and most treatable stages, but it is also very important for people to be familiar with the look and feel of their own breast tissue so that changes, Sometimes subtle, they can be evaluated quickly and give us the best opportunity for early detection,” said Dr. Ashley Pariser, a breast cancer medical oncologist and director of breast cancer survivorship services at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. in Columbus.
A survey commissioned by the cancer center found that 93% of respondents recognize a lump as cancer, but less than half recognize the disease’s other common symptoms. “We want people to feel empowered about their bodies and know what is normal for them. Many breast changes are the result of aging and childbirth; However, breast cancer can present in several ways,” Pariser said in a university news release.
Each person should talk to their doctor about their personal cancer risk and family history.
“It is important for people to feel safe to address these concerns in a timely manner with their doctor. “We have made great progress in detecting breast cancers at much earlier and more treatable stages.” Lesser-known symptoms of breast cancer include a retracted, inverted, or downward-pointing nipple; sinking of the breast, which may look like an indentation or indentation that appears when you raise your arms; loss of sensation in part of the breast; thickened or dimpled skin on the breast; or nipple discharge. Although about 51% of people surveyed said they would recognize nipple discharge as worthy of medical attention, only 31% would think the same of a retracted or inverted nipple.
Between 39% and 45% would consider it necessary to see a doctor for the other symptoms. Just over 1,000 people responded to the survey, which was conducted in late September by phone and online. The researchers also noted confusion about breast cancer screening guidelines. About a third of women say they are confused about the recommendations, and about 44% of those under 30 express confusion.
“The best way to find breast cancer early is for women to come in as soon as they notice a change, ideally even before they see a change. That’s why we recommend screening mammograms for those who qualify if we want to find breast cancer early,” Pariser said. The American College of Radiology and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women begin screening at age 40 if they are at average risk.
The vast majority of women know that a lump in their breast probably indicates the presence of cancer according to a new survey, but that is not the only sign of the disease (iStock)
Each person should talk to their doctor about their personal cancer risk and family history. People with dense breast tissue should be monitored closely because they are at slightly increased risk. Dense tissue can hide small tumors. People of African American or Ashkenazi Jewish descent should also have a conversation about more intensive screening due to the increased risk.
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, after skin cancer. In 2023, it is estimated that there will be just under 300,000 new cases and 43,000 deaths. According to the survey, few women believe it will happen to them. About 75% of women and 91% of men do not believe they will get breast cancer.
“So, although we are making a lot of progress in terms of detection and treatment, unfortunately we live in a world where breast cancer is still a serious concern for people,” Pariser said. “Although the disease is less common in men, 1% of breast cancers occur in men. These cancers typically present as changes in the nipple, so it is also important for men to feel empowered to seek medical care for concerning symptoms, especially if they have a strong family history of breast cancer,” she advised.
More information The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more information about breast cancer.
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