Oktober ist Brustkrebsmonat: Brustkrebs: Was Frauen zur Früherkennung wissen sollten
Eine von acht Frauen bekommt im Laufe ihres Lebens Brustkrebs: Je früher der erkannt wird, desto besser. Wann im Zyklus Frauen ihre Brust am besten selbst abtasten - und welche Untersuchungen es gibt.
Oktober: A Month Dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness
Breast cancer awareness is a crucial topic in October, with women urged to be proactive in their health. Two types of early detection screenings are offered by the German health system: the breast exam performed by a gynecologist and mammography.
The first step is the annual breast exam starting at age 30. During this exam, women can learn how to perform self-examinations and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. However, these exams can sometimes yield false positives, leading to unnecessary worry.
The second critical screening is mammography, which is recommended for women aged 50 to 75 and involves taking X-ray images of the breasts. Two medical professionals then analyze these images to detect any potential issues. Studies have shown that mammography screening can find breast cancer at an early stage, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing the risk of death from breast cancer.
Aside from professional screenings, practicing self-examination regularly is essential. The German Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (BVF) advises women to do this once a month. To perform a self-examination, women should ensure good lighting, inspect their breasts in the mirror, and feel for any changes in size, shape, or texture. They should also check for swelling, dimpling, or changes in nipple discharge. If any abnormalities are found, further investigation is recommended.
Lastly, women with a family history of breast cancer should seek personalized advice. Factors such as early menstruation, late menopause, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Additionally, genetics can play a role, with mutations in the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 genes responsible for around 5 to 10 percent of cases. In such instances, consulting a center specializing in familial breast cancer and considering genetic testing can be beneficial.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
