Each year, approximately 20,000 Thai women are newly diagnosed with breast cancer, with an average of 55 deaths per day. The most commonly affected age group is between 35 and 55 years old. Early detection leads to a 90% chance of full recovery.
How to Screen for Breast Cancer
- Under 35 years old: Ultrasound is recommended, as younger women typically have denser breast tissue.
- Over 35 years old: Both ultrasound and mammography are advised for greater accuracy.
October 7: World Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Breast cancer has remained the number one cancer among women for several years. Key risk factors include:
- Family history of breast cancer
- High-fat diet
- Never having children or long-term use of oral contraceptives
- Obesity
- Alcohol consumption
- Lack of physical activity
Additionally, Western lifestyle habits and other modern influences play a role. Globally, breast cancer is now the most common cancer in women, and since 2011 it has overtaken cervical cancer as Thailand’s most common cancer in women. With such alarming statistics, women are encouraged to prioritize their breast health.
- From age 25 onward: Perform breast self-exams at least once a month during a shower.
- From age 35 onward: Undergo breast cancer screening every 3 years.
Top 3 Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer
Q: Should teenagers have regular breast checkups by a specialist?
A: Women with average risk do not need routine specialist exams in adolescence. However, self-exams should begin at age 25. If a first-degree relative had breast cancer before age 40, screening should begin 5 years before that relative’s age at diagnosis. For example, if a relative was diagnosed at 37, the woman should start screening by age 32 and have a mammogram at 35 instead of waiting until 40.
Q: When should mammograms be performed?
A: There are two key situations:
- Routine screening: Women age 40 and above should have a mammogram once a year.
- Symptom-based evaluation: If a woman visits the doctor with breast symptoms, the physician will recommend mammography or ultrasound depending on age and breast density.
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- Women over 35 are typically advised to have mammograms.
- Women under 35 with dense breast tissue may receive ultrasound instead, as mammograms are less effective in such cases.
- If cancer is suspected, a mammogram may still be ordered for women under 35.
- Women over 35 are typically advised to have mammograms.
Q: Can breast cancer be cured?
A: Yes—if detected early, breast cancer is highly curable. The chances of recovery depend on how early it is diagnosed. The earlier the stage, the better the outcome.
Don’t Lose Hope — Breast Cancer is Treatable
Modern medical treatments are very effective. Based on data from the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate by stage is:
- Stage 0: 100%
- Stage 1: 100%
- Stage 2: 93%
- Stage 3: 72%
- Stage 4: 22%
What to Do After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
- It’s okay to feel sad—but don’t lose hope. Breast cancer is treatable, especially with modern medicine.
- If cancer is caught early, feel encouraged—it’s better to discover cancer early than to wait until symptoms appear or a lump is felt.
- See a specialist in breast cancer who can explain your options clearly, including the pros and cons of each treatment.
- Before beginning treatment, patients should understand:
- The type of breast cancer
- The specialty and experience of the physician
- The treatment plan based on the cancer stage (especially for Stage 1–2)
- The most suitable treatment and second opinions if needed
- Post-surgical care, including any additional treatments
- The type of breast cancer
Stay Strong and Trust the Process
With proper cooperation and adherence to treatment plans, breast cancer can be managed and even cured. Today’s treatments offer many customized options for better outcomes.
