Health

What is breast cancer?

By Gretel Morales - 2024-10-14T16:50:04Z
Year after year, the month of October becomes a stage to spread awareness and educate the public about breast cancer. This disease can be deadly if not detected early, which is why at kiwilimón we researched breast cancer and we are sharing the main symptoms and how to prevent this type of cancer, along with other relevant information about Pink Month.   You can also read: Keto diet: Would it help fight cancer?What is breast cancer? In addition to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, malignant tumors are one of the leading causes of death among Mexican women. Therefore, breast cancer is among the deadliest, which is why the entire world dedicates a whole month to raise awareness about self-examination, mammograms, and early detection of breast cancer. In this regard, it is important to understand that breast cancer occurs in breast tissue, where cells mutate and grow uncontrollably. This results in the formation of tumors, according to the MedlinePlus. While breast cancer may not progress, in the opposite case, it could be an invasive case or one that has metastasized and reached other parts of the body. Therefore, it is important to perform a breast self-exam once a month and to get a mammogram whenever your doctor advises you to do so.  See more: How to fight free radicals? Symptoms of breast cancerThe CDC recommends looking for the following symptoms to detect breast cancer:  A lump in the breast or underarm, below the arm. Increased thickness or swelling in one part of the breast. Irritation or indentation in the skin of the breast. Redness or flaking in the nipple or breast area. Indention of the nipple or pain in the area. Discharge from the nipple; it could be blood. Change in the size or shape of the breast. Pain in any part of the breast Remember that if you have one or more of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately.  How to prevent breast cancer? The IMSS mentions that to prevent this type of cancer, you can follow healthy habits such as:  Balanced diet rich in fiber.Reduce sugar and fat consumption.Exercise at least 30 minutes a day.Maintain a healthy weight.Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages. Perform a breast self-exam every month from the age of 20, preferably on the fifth day of your period.Get a mammogram from the age of 34 if you have a family history. Get a mammogram every two years from the age of 40. Get a mammogram every year from the age of 50. Now that you know what breast cancer is, what its main symptoms are, and how to prevent its occurrence, remember that your health is the most important thing. Perform your monthly self-exam, get a mammogram, and raise awareness about Pink Month. Let’s fight together! Continue reading: Cookies for Pink Month