screening for breast

Overview

Breast screening is a way to check the breasts for early signs of cancer, even before there are any symptoms. It usually uses an X-ray picture called a mammogram. Finding breast cancer early makes it more likely that treatment can help.

Yes. In many countries, breast screening is offered regularly to women in a certain age group, such as every 1 to 3 years depending on national guidelines.

Breast screening is mainly for women over the age of 40 or 50, depending on where you live. Some women who have a higher risk, because of family history or inherited gene changes, may be offered screening at a younger age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A new lump or hardening in the breast
• Change in breast size or shape
• Dimpling of skin (like an orange peel)
• Nipple discharge or pulling in
• Persistent breast pain in one area

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of breast cancer is often unknown.
• Changes (mutations) in genes that control cell growth can cause cells to divide out of control.
• Hormone influences over many years may play a role.

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Having a close relative with breast cancer
• Inherited gene changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
• Heavy alcohol intake
• Obesity after menopause
• Not having children or having a first child later in life

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you feel a new lump, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible – most lumps are not cancer, but they need checking.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are due for breast screening, book an appointment as recommended.
• If you have persistent symptoms that change your breast shape or skin, request a check-up.

Diagnosis

Screening is not a diagnosis. If screening shows something unusual, you will have more tests. The main test is a biopsy, where a small sample of breast tissue is removed and looked at under a microscope.

Tests that may be done

• Mammogram (X-ray of the breast)
• Clinical breast exam
• Ultrasound
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• Biopsy

What to expect at your appointment

You may feel some pressure during a mammogram. It usually takes about 10 minutes. If you are called back for further tests, you will have an appointment to discuss the results. The whole process can be worrisome, but remember that most callbacks are not cancer.

Treatment

If breast cancer is found, a team of specialists will plan your care. Treatment usually involves several approaches working together, such as surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy, and medicines like hormone therapy or chemotherapy. The exact plan depends on the type, size, and spread of the cancer, as well as your overall health and choices.

Self-care at home

• Be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel so you can notice any changes
• Attend your regular screening appointments
• Ask questions during your tests so you understand what is happening

Medical treatments

Doctors may use surgery to remove the cancer, radiation to destroy cancer cells, chemotherapy to stop cells from dividing, hormone therapy if the cancer is hormone-sensitive, and targeted therapies for specific gene changes. Your healthcare team will explain what is recommended for your situation, including side effects and aftercare.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often part of treatment for breast cancer, but not always needed immediately. It may be a lumpectomy (removing only the cancer) or a mastectomy (removing the whole breast). Your surgeon will discuss the options with you.

Living with this condition

After a breast cancer diagnosis, your daily life will change for a while, but many women continue to live well. You may need to plan rest during treatments, and adjust work and family duties. Build a support network of friends, family, and healthcare professionals.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep physically active in a way that feels right for you
• Limit alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Attend regular follow-up appointments

Diet and exercise

Eat a varied diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can help with energy and mood. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A breast cancer diagnosis can bring anxiety, stress, and depression. It is normal to have mixed emotions. Talking to a counselor, joining a support group, or speaking with your healthcare team can help. Remember that your emotional health is as important as your physical health.

Prevention

There is no certain way to prevent breast cancer, but you can lower your risk by staying physically active, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding unnecessary hormone therapy after menopause.

Vaccines

There is currently no vaccine for breast cancer. Some vaccines are being researched, but none are available for general use.

Screening programmes

Screening can find cancer early, even before symptoms appear. Most health authorities have age-based programs. Talk to your healthcare provider to know when to start and how often to be screened.

Complications

If left untreated

• If left untreated, breast cancer may grow and spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• It may spread to other parts of the body, which makes it harder to treat.
• This is why early detection is so valuable.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for breast cancer is often very good when it is caught early. Many women live full, healthy lives after treatment. The survival rates have improved steadily over the years thanks to better detection and therapies.

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