Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the world. It is found in women aged 40 and over, with a higher incidence in women over 70.

Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of the cells lining the breast lobules or ducts. These cells grow uncontrollably and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Patients with advanced-stage breast cancer have a high mortality rate due to the disease's progression.

Benefits of early detection

• Early detection of breast cancer aims to detect any abnormalities as early as possible. Detecting breast cancer at an early stage offers a wider range of treatment options for restoring the patient to a healthy life. Breast cancer detected at an early stage and in a localized area (when breast cancer is confined only inside the breast) has a 93% survival rate in the first five years.
• Early-stage breast cancer can be treated with less aggressive treatment, like surgery followed by radiotherapy. However advanced-stage breast cancers are treated with chemotherapy, which has lots of side effects.
• Diagnosing breast cancer at an early stage reduces anxiety and depression for the patient compared to diagnosis at an advanced stage. Early detection creates a new hope to be back to a healthy life again.

Screening recommendations 
A mammogram is one of the most common and effective ways to detect breast cancer at its very early stage. Medical professionals recommend that women aged 40-54 have a mammogram once a year, and for women aged 55 and over, once every two years.
Mammograms, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams significantly increase the chances of detecting breast cancer early, potentially saving lives. 

Self-exams and symptoms to watch for
Currently, women are advised to conduct breast self-exams and remain vigilant about the potential symptoms of breast cancer. The symptoms of breast cancer may vary from woman to woman. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your breast, it is advisable to promptly consult a doctor for evaluation. The symptoms include:

• An upturn, itching, or sores in the nipple
• A sudden change in the size, shape, temperature, and appearance of the breast
• The presence of a new lump in the breast or armpit that does not go away
• Tissue thickening of the breast
• Changes of the skin over and around the breast
• Scaly patches around the nipple or breast skin
• Redness in the breast
• Swelling
• Irritation
• Pain in the nipple or breast; very often it gives a prickly sensation and discharge from the nipple other than milk-like blood.

By enhancing awareness, education, and regular screenings, we can further advance in the battle against this formidable adversary, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future for women.