Everything you need to know about breast cancer – and what you may not have known

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an important opportunity to highlight the importance of prevention, screening, and education. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 8 women during their lifetime. It is also increasing in Africa, where women are often diagnosed at a more advanced stage, making awareness and screening even more essential.

1. Screening saves lives

Even without any symptoms, breast cancer can develop silently. That’s why mammography is recommended according to age and individual risk. It allows detection of cancer at an early stage, before any palpable lump. Combining regular screening with body awareness increases the chances of successful treatment.

2. Breast self-examination and body awareness

Monthly breast self-exams can help identify early abnormalities. Self-examination does not replace mammography, but it promotes prompt detection of unusual changes.

3. Risk factors and prevention

Several factors increase risk: family history, genetic mutations (BRCA1/2), prolonged hormone exposure, alcohol, smoking, obesity. However, the majority of breast cancers occur in women without identifiable risk factors.

4. Lifestyle and breastfeeding

Certain habits can significantly reduce risk:

• Regular physical activity: 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can reduce risk by 20–30%.

• Balanced diet: fruits, vegetables, fiber, and limiting saturated fats.

• Avoid smoking and alcohol: smoking increases risk, and even moderate alcohol consumption can raise risk.

• Breastfeeding: prolonged breastfeeding may reduce risk by 4–5% per year of breastfeeding.

These numbers are estimates to provide a simple idea: every preventive measure counts and contributes to lowering risk.

5. Symptoms to watch for

Some warning signs include:

• Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm

• Skin changes (redness, dimpling)

• Bloody nipple discharge

• Retraction or change in breast shape

However, many cancers show no symptoms at first, which emphasizes the importance of regular screening.

6. Advances in treatment

Breast cancer treatment has evolved significantly: conservative surgery, radiotherapy, targeted chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy. Prognosis depends on the cancer type, stage at diagnosis, and treatment response.

7. Psychological support

A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Psychological support is essential for patients, not only to navigate treatment and follow-up, but also to improve clinical outcomes. Studies show that support reduces stress, improves quality of life, and may even positively influence survival.

In summary

Breast cancer is common but detectable and often treatable when caught early. Knowing your body, attending regular screenings, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and breastfeeding when possible are simple yet powerful ways to reduce risk. October is a reminder for all women, including in Africa, to take care of themselves, stay informed, and seek medical advice without delay.

Take care of yourself!

Kind regards,

Dr. Sandra Yene Amougui