Chief Crimean oncologist on risk factors for breast cancer and symptoms of the disease

Since 1993, by decision of the WHO, October has been declared Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and October 15 is World Breast Cancer Day. The chief freelance oncologist of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Crimea, the chief physician of the Crimean Republican Oncology Clinical Dispensary named after V.M., recalled the risk factors for the development of this disease and its symptoms. Efetov» Bekir Seferov.

According to the specialist, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers both in Crimea and in Russia.

The risk group includes women with disrupted hormonal levels, for example, as a result of abortions or uncontrolled use of oral contraceptives. Also, the risk of the disease increases the absence of pregnancies, refusal of breastfeeding, early onset of menstruation (before 12 years) and late menopause (after 55 years), injuries and bruises of the mammary glands, excess weight, etc.

The likelihood of developing cancer increases with age. Therefore, as part of the medical examination program, women after 40 years of age are sent for mammography. At the same time, women of any age, and especially those who are at risk, should regularly conduct breast self-examination. Self-examination should be carried out every month on days 5-12 of the menstrual cycle, — said the chief Crimean oncologist.

Signs that should alert you and prompt you to see a doctor are changes in skin color in the area of ​​the mammary gland (redness, peeling, rash, etc.), pain, discharge, changes in the shape or size of the mammary gland (asymmetry and swelling), the presence lumps in the mammary gland itself or in the armpit area. At the same time, with an oncological diagnosis, the lymph nodes may become enlarged and the temperature may rise.

If symptoms of the disease appear, you should seek medical help as soon as possible — first, see a general practitioner, who will refer you for additional examination and, if necessary, consultation with an oncologist. Remember that cancer detected early is more treatablenoted Bekir Seferov.

source: press service of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Crimea