Breast cancer: The best approach is to keep an eye on things
Breast cancer affects approximately one in eight women in Canada. The good news? When detected early, treatment is generally more successful. That’s why it’s important to know your body, stay alert to changes and follow screening recommendations.
A reality that affects us all
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Canada, with the exception of skin cancers. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Canadian women. It is estimated that approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and one in 35 will die from it.
These statistics may seem concerning, but they mainly serve as a reminder of the importance of knowing your body and staying alert to changes. Being informed is already a first step toward taking better care of your health.
What changes should you watch for?
Breast cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages. That’s why it’s important to know what your breasts normally look and feel like so you can notice any changes.
Here are some changes that deserve your attention:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm. A lump is the most common sign. It may feel firm, be different from the surrounding tissue and not go away with your menstrual cycle. It is not necessarily painful, so the absence of pain does not mean there is nothing to check.
- A change in the size or shape of the breast. An unusual or persistent change in the size or shape of one breast should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- A change in the nipple.A nipple that suddenly turns inward or an unusual discharge, particularly if it is blood-stained and occurs spontaneously, should be assessed.
- A change in the skin of the breast. Redness, thickening, unusual changes in texture or skin that has an orange-peel appearance can be signs to watch for.
Any other unusual or persistent change. You know what your breasts normally look and feel like. If something seems different and doesn’t go away, it’s best to talk to a healthcare professional.
Important: Several of these changes can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. Their presence does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Only a healthcare professional can provide a diagnosis.
Knowing your breasts: a simple habit, without a rigid method
You may have heard of the “breast self-exam,” which involved following a specific technique to examine your breasts every month. This approach has evolved. There is no longer a need to follow a specific method or strict schedule.
The goal is simply to know your breasts and stay alert to changes.
In practice:
- Get to know your breasts. Their appearance, texture and sensitivity can vary from person to person and over time.
- Look at and touch your breasts regularly as part of your everyday routine. In front of a mirror, in the shower or while getting dressed—choose whatever works best for you.
- Be alert to new or persistent changes, such as a lump, a change in the skin, a change in the nipple or an unusual difference between your breasts.
- There’s no perfect method. The important thing is to know what is normal for you so you can recognize what isn’t.
- Don’t hesitate to talk about it. If you notice a change that concerns you, consult a healthcare professional.
The key takeaway? Knowing your body helps you recognize what’s unusual. If something seems different or concerns you, it’s best to talk to a healthcare professional.
Mammography: an essential screening test
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can detect certain abnormalities before they can be felt or seen. It remains the only breast cancer screening test shown to reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer.
At what age and how often?
According to the current recommendations of the Canadian Cancer Society:
- Ages 40 to 74: A mammogram every two years is recommended.
- Age 75 and older: Talk to your healthcare professional to determine whether screening remains appropriate for you.
Access to organized screening varies by province or territory. In Quebec, the Programme québécois de dépistage du cancer du sein currently offers screening to women aged 50 to 74. If you are between 40 and 49, talk to your healthcare professional to determine whether a mammogram is right for you and learn about the options available.
Remember: Even if you have no symptoms, it’s important to follow the screening recommendations that apply to your age and situation.
In summary: three simple steps
- Check your breasts regularly, without following a specific method, and stay alert to changes.
- See a healthcare professional if you notice a new or persistent change that concerns you.
- Follow screening recommendations and get your mammogram according to the guidelines that apply to your age and situation.
Breast cancer is common, but screening and early detection can make a real difference. If you have concerns or questions, talk to your healthcare professional.