October is Breast Cancer Screening Awareness Month, a campaign aimed at informing women about the risks of this disease and promoting scientific research in this area. With this in mind, I had the opportunity to speak with Dr Thésée Kogomba Kebela, an expert in obstetrics and gynecology, who gives us valuable advice on the prevention and management of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a chronic, non-communicable disease characterized by the presence of a malignant tumor in the breast tissue. According to Dr. Thésée, certain risk factors can promote the appearance of this disease, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption, being overweight, lack of physical activity, as well as family medical history.
Preventing breast cancer mainly involves adopting healthy lifestyles, such as limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining regular physical activity and performing regular self-examination of the breasts. However, it is important to note that some risk factors, such as family history, cannot be changed.
Regarding age, the risk of developing breast cancer generally increases with age. However, it can also affect women of all age groups. It is recommended that women aged 50 to 74 have a mammogram every two years as part of breast cancer screening.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is essential for early diagnosis. Among these, we find changes in the appearance of the breast, such as orange peel, the presence of a hard mass, swollen and hard lymph nodes in the armpit, spontaneous discharge from the nipples, etc. If in doubt, it is best to consult a gynecologist as soon as possible.
In terms of medical care, this may vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s preferences. It may include treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or even palliative care in advanced cases.
During our interview, Dr. Theseus also emphasized the importance of not resorting to traditional medicine in cases of breast cancer, as this can lead to late diagnosis and inadequate care. It is therefore essential to consult a health professional as soon as symptoms or worrying signs appear.
In conclusion, the month of October reminds us of the importance of prevention and early detection of breast cancer. You must remain vigilant, adopt healthy lifestyle habits and regularly consult a health professional to ensure adequate care if necessary.. Raising awareness and scientific research are essential elements to fight this disease and reduce its impact on society.