Breast cancer is a disease that affects millions of women worldwide and is one of the leading causes of death in women. However, when it is detected in its early stages, survival rates and treatment outcomes are much more favourable. Although its causes are not fully understood, it is essential to highlight the importance of undergoing regular medical check-ups for the early detection of breast cancer.
Early detection involves identifying the disease before symptoms appear or it spreads to other parts of the body. The most common methods for early detection include breast self-examination, mammography and regular medical check-ups. The latter is performed by a trained health professional and is essential to identify possible signs or symptoms of breast cancer that may go unnoticed by the patient. During the check-up, the breasts will be examined and changes will be looked for, such as lumps, thickening, changes in the size or shape of the breasts, nipple discharge or other worrying symptoms. If any abnormalities are detected, additional tests, such as a mammogram, breast ultrasound or biopsy, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
A LITTLE HISTORY OF BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer has, unfortunately, existed since the dawn of humanity, but its first research dates back to the antiquity of established society. The first records of this disease are found in the Edwin Smith Papyrus, an Egyptian medical text written around 1600 BC, considered one of the oldest surgical documents. This papyrus describes eight cases of tumors or ulcers in the breasts, which were treated by cauterization with a tool called “the fire fork”. Although doctors of the time recognized the seriousness of the disease, they also admitted that there was no known cure. This text is a testament to early efforts to understand and address cancer, even from the limited perspective of medicine at that time.
It was not until the 19th century that advances in anatomy and pathology made it possible to understand that breast cancer was a disease that could be studied from a medical perspective. In 1895, Wilhelm Röntgen discovered X-rays, and decades later, this technology would be adapted to develop mammography, a fundamental tool for early detection.
The real change came in the 20th century, when radical surgeries such as mastectomy began to offer hope, albeit with significant physical and emotional consequences for patients. Over time, treatments evolved into less invasive options, combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In the 1970s, the discovery of hormone receptors in breast cancer opened the door to targeted treatments such as hormone therapy, which revolutionized the way the disease was tackled.
Today, research continues to advance by leaps and bounds. Genetic studies have made it possible to identify mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which help assess risk in people with a family history. Immunotherapy, personalized treatments, and therapies targeting specific proteins, such as HER2, have transformed the prognosis for many patients. In addition, awareness campaigns have played a key role in early detection, saving countless lives.
However, the challenge is not over. Breast cancer remains a battle that many face with courage, but also with inequality. In some regions of the world, access to timely diagnosis and treatment remains limited. This is where social solidarity, education, and support for research are more necessary than ever.
KEY POINTS OF DETECTION
Understanding the importance of medical screening in the early detection of breast cancer can be a way of empowering women. Prevention is the key to reducing the incidence of this disease and ensuring a healthier life for all. Among the benefits are the following points:
- Higher survival rate: Early detection allows for early diagnosis, which significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.
- Less invasive treatment options: When breast cancer is detected in the early stages, it is more likely that less aggressive treatments, such as breast-conserving surgery, can be used instead of a full mastectomy.
- Lower financial and emotional cost: Early detection can prevent more intensive and expensive treatments, as well as the emotional and psychological impact of a late diagnosis of breast cancer.
- Awareness and education: It is crucial that all women understand the risks and symptoms of breast cancer. Information and education are powerful tools that can motivate women to schedule regular medical check-ups and perform breast self-examinations.
- Doctor-patient collaboration: The bond between doctor and patient is essential in the early detection of breast cancer. Medical professionals should foster an environment of trust and empathy, encouraging women to express any concerns or changes in their breasts.
- Access to health care: It is essential that all women, regardless of their geographic location or economic status, have access to quality health care services. Governments and health organizations must work together to ensure that medical check-ups and screening tests are available and affordable for all.
- Emotional support: A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for women and their families. It is essential to provide emotional and psychological support throughout the process, from detection to treatment and recovery.
Breast cancer is a story of struggle, but also of resilience. Thanks to medical advances and collective commitment, more and more people are able to overcome this disease every day. It is a reminder that, together, we can move towards a future where breast cancer is just another page in the history of diseases that we managed to overcome.
