Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and when detected early, the success rate of treatment is very high. Every year, October is recognized worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During this time, awareness campaigns highlight the importance of screening tests and emphasize the life-saving role of early detection.
Breast cancer often progresses without showing symptoms. For this reason, regular check-ups are vital for early diagnosis. Mammography is an imaging method that can detect even the smallest lumps in the breast. Today, modern mammography devices are performed safely with low radiation doses.
Thanks to mammography, tumors that cannot be felt by hand can still be detected. This allows the disease to be diagnosed at a much earlier stage. Breast cancer detected at an early stage can be controlled with more limited treatment, extending patients’ life expectancy.
Campaigns held throughout October encourage women to have mammograms. It is recommended that women over the age of 40 undergo mammography once a year. For those with a family history of breast cancer, this age may be earlier.
In conclusion, the importance of mammography for early detection should never be forgotten. October serves as a powerful reminder for women to prioritize their health and not neglect regular check-ups.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and affects hundreds of thousands of women worldwide each year. But the key point is this: when breast cancer is detected at an early stage, the treatment success rate is very high. For this reason, every year October is celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us once again of the life-saving importance of early diagnosis.
Why Is Breast Cancer So Important?
Breast cancer is not only a disease that affects women but also, though rarely, men. Because its prevalence among women is very high, it has great significance for public health. According to World Health Organization data, one in eight women will face breast cancer at some point in their life. In cases where it is not diagnosed early, the disease can spread to the lymph nodes and other organs. Therefore, regular check-ups and screening programs play a vital role.
Early Detection Saves Lives
When breast cancer is detected early, treatment is much easier and more successful. Because when the tumor is still small, surgical options are more limited, and the recovery process after treatment is more comfortable. Moreover, in early-stage cancers, aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy may not always be necessary.
The most effective way of early detection is regular screenings. Self-breast examinations, clinical examinations, and mammography are crucial at this stage. Women over the age of 40, in particular, should never neglect mammography.
What Is Mammography?
Mammography is a method that uses low-dose X-rays to create images of the breast. Today, it is one of the most widely used screening methods and is considered the gold standard in the early detection of breast cancer.
With mammography, even very small lumps that cannot be felt by hand can be detected. This makes it possible to catch the disease at a very early stage and begin treatment before the tumor grows.
The Importance of Mammography
- Provides early diagnosis: Detects small-sized tumors.
- Increases treatment success: Allows treatment before the disease spreads.
- Extends life expectancy: Patients treated at an early stage live longer.
- Enables breast-conserving surgery: Allows smaller interventions that preserve breast tissue.
Who Should Get a Mammogram?
In general, it is recommended that women aged 40 and over have a mammogram once a year. However, women with a family history of breast cancer, genetic risk factors, or who previously had a suspicious lump may need to start earlier. In some cases, doctors may recommend regular mammograms starting at the age of 30.
Self-Breast Examination
Although mammography is the most reliable method of early detection, it is also very important for women to learn how to perform self-breast examinations. By checking once a month, preferably in the days following the menstrual period, women can notice unusual hardness, lumps, asymmetry, or discharge. If such changes are observed, a doctor should be consulted without delay.
October Awareness Activities
Every October, campaigns around the world use the pink ribbon symbol to raise awareness. Hospitals, health institutions, and non-governmental organizations organize free screening days, seminars, and educational campaigns. The goal is to encourage women not to skip their check-ups.
Common Misconceptions About Mammography
- Is radiation harmful?
Mammography uses a very low dose of X-rays. This dose is so minimal that it does not pose a health risk. The benefits of regular screening far outweigh the potential risks. - Is it a painful procedure?
During mammography, slight pressure is applied to the breast. This may cause mild discomfort for a short period but is tolerable for most people. - Is mammography unnecessary at a young age?
Since younger women have denser breast tissue, ultrasound is often preferred. However, if risk factors are present, mammography can also be performed at younger ages.
The Social Impact of Early Detection
Breast cancer does not only affect the individual but also their family and social environment. Thanks to early detection, the treatment process is shorter and easier, positively affecting both the patient’s quality of life and the psychological well-being of their family. Early diagnosis also reduces healthcare costs.
Early detection saves lives in breast cancer. The most effective way is regular mammography. From the age of 40, every woman is advised to have a mammogram once a year. It should be remembered that breast cancer detected at an early stage can largely be treated successfully.
It is valuable for women to prioritize their health, attend regular check-ups, and pay attention to the messages shared during awareness months. Mammography is not only an imaging method but a life-saving diagnostic tool.
