Talk of breast cancer can leave you overcome with fear and worry. However, advancements in medical technology have made it one of the most treatable cancers. Early detection and proper care have resulted in women enjoying long, healthy lives. 

What is breast cancer? 

Breast cancer happens when malignant cells grow in the breast tissue. When these cells accumulate, they form a lump or mass and can potentially spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes. 

Doctors do not know the causes of breast cancer, nor can it be prevented. But Mayo Clinic identifies the following possible risk factors:

• Hormones
• Lifestyle choices (e.g., drinking alcohol, smoking)
• Environmental elements (e.g., exposure to air pollution, carcinogens from cigarette smoking)

Other risk factors are post-menopausal age, obesity, and breast density. Mayo Clinic stresses breast cancer can result from "a complex interplay between genetic factors and the environment." Your chances of developing the cancer are higher if a female family member has had the disease. 

However, Some people without risk factors can develop cancer, while others at risk may not.

Breast cancer symptoms

The Philippines saw breast cancer rank first in terms of new cancer cases in 2022. But patients can pull through for more than five years when the breast cancer lump is found early and in the localized stage (the tumor is confined to the breast). 

Early signs of breast cancer may include but are not limited to:

• A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue
• Change in the size, shape, or appearance of a breast
• Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling
• A newly inverted nipple
• Peeling, scaling, crusting, or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin
• Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

How to know if you have breast cancer

Early detection and proactivity are the keys to surviving breast cancer. Fortunately, there are two types of breast scans available that can help detect tumors at their earliest stages, even before you can feel them. Talk to your doctor about which option is best suited for your individual needs and risk factors.

Mammograms

Mammograms are an X-ray exam of the breast. Health organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend that all women with average risk get annual mammograms from 45 to 54 years old. ACS recommends that women at high risk get yearly mammograms starting at 30.

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) 

MRIs use strong magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of the breast tissue. Doctors usually recommend this type of test only for people who have a higher risk of breast problems or when they need more information to figure out the best way to treat a problem.

Learn how to perform a breast self-exam 

Countries like the United States, where mammograms are widely available, no longer recommend breast self-exams. However, the World Health Organization Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) says monthly self-examination is still important for early detection, especially when mammograms are not as accessible. The National Breast Cancer Foundation recommends three ways to self-check.

In the shower

Check for any breast changes using your three middle fingers to feel the entire breast and armpit area. Make sure to apply light, medium, and firm pressure. Feel for new lumps, thickened areas, hardened knots, or anything unusual as you check both breasts every month.

In front of a mirror

Start by standing in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides.

• Take a good look at your breasts to check if there are any differences in shape, swelling, or changes in the skin around them.
• Don't forget to check your nipples too.
• Put your hands on your hips and press them firmly to flex your chest muscles.
• Look at your breasts again to see if there are any new dimples, wrinkles, or changes, especially on one side.

Remember, your breasts may differ in size and shape, and that's okay. These differences do not typically pose any health risk. But see a doctor when you see significant shifts in breast density, size or skin texture.

Lying down

Your breast tissue spreads evenly across your chest wall when you lie down. You can use your fingers to feel around your breast and underarm area to check for any unusual lumps, thickenings, or hardened knots.

• Place a pillow under your right shoulder and reach your right arm behind your head.
• Use your left hand to move your three middle fingers around your breast and apply light, medium, and firm pressure.
• Check for any discharge by gently squeezing your nipple. 
• Repeat the same steps for your left breast.

When you incorporate breast health checks into your regular preventive care routine, you increase your likelihood of identifying early signs of breast cancer and saving on expensive medical treatment.

Signing up for a health insurance policy such as AIA Critical Protect may also help alleviate costs. If you’re diagnosed with an early-stage condition of breast cancer, you can benefit from extra 50% coverage through its optional gender-specific cancer rider. This take-charge approach can improve your chances of successful treatment and recovery and save you money in the long run.

Interested in knowing more about this plan? Contact an AIA Life Planner today.