Breast Cancer: The Value of Early Detection
Mammography screening saves thousands of lives each year.
Dr. Anne-Sophie Lefèvre
Oncologist
Age, family history, BRCA1/2 mutations, early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, alcohol intake, and obesity after menopause.
Screening
Mammography every 2 years from 50 to 74 reduces breast cancer mortality. Earlier screening is recommended for high-risk women, often combined with breast MRI.
Warning signs
- New lump or thickening
- Skin dimpling or peau d'orange
- Nipple retraction or new discharge
- Persistent localized pain
Treatment
Surgery, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy (HER2 inhibitors, CDK4/6 inhibitors) — personalised to tumour biology.
Breast self-awareness matters: report any new persistent change without waiting for the next screening.
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