“Breast Cancer” is the leading cause of death among Thai women and the risk increases with age. If breast cancer is detected at an early stage and treated immediately, the chances of recovery are higher. If you meet any of these 5 criteria… you may be at risk of breast cancer.
- Women aged 35 years and older
- Having a family history of cancer, as there is a higher risk than others
- No children or having the first child after the age of 30
- Long-term use of female hormones
- Obesity and heavy alcohol consumption
Check Early, Know Early, Treat Early
- Breast self-examination Age: 20 years and older Frequency: once a month
- Ultrasound examination Age: under 35 years Frequency: every 1-2 years
- Digital mammogram Age: 35 years and older Frequency: every 1-2 years
Note: Women with a family history of breast cancer should start screening from the age of 30 due to a higher risk than others.
Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
It is recommended to perform monthly self-examinations about 7-10 days after the end of menstruation because this is when the breasts are not swollen or tender, reducing the chance of errors. If you find any of the following abnormalities, consult a doctor immediately:
- Feeling a lump or bump
- Feeling pain, swelling, redness, or warmth
- Abnormal shape or changes in breast appearance
- Skin of the breast resembling orange peel
- Rash on the nipple area, often mistaken for an allergic rash. Digital mammogram may not detect any abnormalities, but in reality, this rash could be an early sign of cancer, which can be confirmed by further examination by a specialist.
- Clear or bloody discharge from the nipple, which is a warning sign of breast cancer. Digital mammogram may not detect this as well as a physical examination by a doctor. Patients who find a lump near the base edge of the breast that can be felt themselves should also be concerned.
Ultrasound Examination
It is recommended to start screening before the age of 35 and to have an ultrasound every 1-2 years. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to examine the breast tissue, allowing detection of differences between normal tissue and lumps in the breast.
Genetic Testing
Women with a family history of breast cancer should undergo genetic screening due to a higher risk. Breast cancer is caused by abnormalities in gene codes, which can be inherited from either parent. Early detection of genetic abnormalities allows consultation with a doctor to find preventive measures before symptoms appear.
Digital Mammogram
Digital mammogram technology uses X-rays to detect abnormalities in the breast. These abnormalities may appear as lumps, breast density, abnormal tissue distribution, or calcifications, among others. This method effectively detects early-stage abnormalities.
Because it uses a computer-controlled system and digital image receptors, the images are transmitted to a high-resolution monitor, allowing immediate diagnosis without waiting for film development as in the past. Therefore, digital mammography can detect abnormalities better than conventional X-ray mammography.
4 Advantages of Digital Mammogram
- High-quality X-ray images with clear distinction between fat and various breast tissues
- Accuracy with up to 90% correct results
- Safety designed to minimize radiation exposure (studies comparing with older mammogram systems show that digital mammogram reduces radiation exposure by approximately 30 – 60%)
- Fast examination time, reducing the screening time to only 2 – 3 seconds due to digital image capture without film changes, allowing images to be viewed immediately on a computer screen
Digital Mammogram: Easy and Convenient
When undergoing the examination, it is recommended to schedule it after menstruation. Avoid scheduling mammograms during breastfeeding, when breasts feel swollen or tender, or within one week before menstruation, as this may cause more pain during the exam. Also, on the day of the exam, do not apply powder, deodorant, or lotion on the armpits or chest, as these can cause spots on the images and lead to misdiagnosis.
Results Reported by Specialist Surgeons
The radiologist will read the examination results for the attending physician. Then, a specialist surgeon will summarize the results for you. If abnormalities are found, the surgeon can provide consultation to prepare for the next steps in treatment. For those who have previously had mammograms or digital mammograms, it is recommended to bring previous images and results for comparison by the radiologist.
