Bangkok: Just because you don't see a lump or feel pain doesn't mean you don't have breast cancer. Doctors at Vimut Hospital emphasize that you shouldn't be afraid of screening because the later it's detected, the more dangerous it is.
According to Thai News Agency, breast cancer is a serious health threat to women, causing immense loss worldwide. It is the leading cancer among women in over 157 out of 185 countries globally. In 2022, there were approximately 2.3 million new breast cancer cases and more than 670,000 deaths, as reported by the World Health Organization.
In Thailand, GLOBOCAN Thailand 2022 data indicates over 21,628 new cases of breast cancer among Thai women, averaging 60 cases per day. The danger of breast cancer lies in the fact that early-stage lumps may be painless or asymptomatic, causing many to miss early screening, allowing the disease to progress and become life-threatening.
Dr. Puttiporn Naowaset, a specialist in general surgery and surgical oncology at the Breast Center, Vimut Hospital, explains that breast cancer is a condition where cells within the breast grow abnormally, forming a cancerous tumor. It can spread to nearby tissues, posing a life-threatening risk. Major risk factors include being female, age, hormonal imbalances, genetics, certain breast cell abnormalities, lifestyle habits, and previous radiation exposure to the chest.
Dr. Puttiporn Naowaset debunks three common misconceptions about breast cancer. Many people mistakenly believe that finding a 'lump' in the breast immediately means it's cancer. However, a thorough screening by a doctor is necessary for confirmation. Additionally, wearing a bra while sleeping does not increase the risk of breast cancer. Finally, men can also develop breast cancer, although it is much rarer than in women.
Dr. Naowaset emphasizes that a painless lump can be a sign of breast cancer that many people overlook. Early-stage breast cancer often has no noticeable symptoms. Warning signs include a hard lump in the breast or armpit, a lump with irregular edges, rapid growth, or changes in the breast such as dimpling, deformity, skin changes, or abnormal discharge from the nipple. Immediate medical consultation is advised if these signs are observed.
Early breast cancer screening can be done through self-examination of the breasts. Women aged 20 and older are recommended to perform monthly breast examinations. For those who discover an abnormal lump and women aged 40 and older, mammography is recommended as the standard method for breast cancer screening. It may be combined with ultrasound or MRI scans for individuals with dense breast tissue or higher risk factors.
At the Breast Center of Vimut Hospital, a multidisciplinary medical team focuses on personalized breast cancer treatment, considering the stage of the disease, tumor size, cancer spread, and type. Treatment options include chemotherapy, anti-hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, and in some cases, surgery. Methods to preserve the appearance of the breast, such as breast-conserving surgery or breast reconstruction, are also available.