Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is a method used for early signs of cancer in people who have no symptoms of breast cancer. It facilitates early diagnosis and treatment of cancer and reduces the possibility of loss of life from cancer.

The main test used to screen for breast cancer is a special type of X-ray called a mammogram. Research shows that screening for breast cancer reduces the chance of loss of life from the disease.

People who should be screened for breast cancer
There are different screening recommendations for breast cancer and people at high risk of developing breast cancer.
People at high risk of breast cancer may need to start screening before the age of 40. You should talk to your doctor to find out if you should start screening earlier. For example, you can do this if you are under 40 but have a relative who developed breast cancer at a young age, or if you have certain genes (such as the "BRCA" genes) that increase your risk of breast cancer. From the age of 40 onwards, you can discuss the benefits of screening with your doctor and decide whether and when you should be screened.

Evaluation of the mammogram
Try not to panic if your mammogram is abnormal. In nine out of 10 cases, an abnormal mammogram turns out not to be breast cancer. You will need more tests to find out what is really going on.
The doctor will send you for more tests. An ultrasound or MRI may also be recommended. If these tests show suspicious findings, your doctor will probably order a biopsy. During a biopsy, the doctor takes a sample of breast tissue and sends it to the laboratory for checking. Biopsies are usually performed by taking a small amount of tissue from the breast with a needle during a mammogram or ultrasound. However, in some cases, biopsies may involve minor surgery.

Breast examination
Most experts nowadays do not believe that breast examination by a doctor or nurse is useful in people who do not have signs of cancer. Breast self-examination includes how the breast normally looks and feels and what to do if a change is noticed.

Any changes that are noticed should be referred to a doctor.

Frequency of mammography
Experts have different opinions about the frequency of mammograms. Many experts recommend mammograms every two years for most people, while others recommend mammograms every year. For those at high risk of breast cancer, the screening programme may be different.

Covid-19 vaccination and breast cancer screening
Some people may experience temporary swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpit area after receiving COVID-19 vaccines. This can make it difficult for doctors to interpret your mammogram. Experts therefore recommend that you try to schedule your mammogram before you receive your COVID-19 vaccine or at least 4 to 6 weeks after your last dose.

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:2024-04-25 10:09:10