In Brazil, there were 73.6 thousand new cases of breast cancer this year, with a risk of 66.54 cases per 100 thousand women – Photo: Disclosure/Help Emergency Medical Services and Telemedicine

Did you know that breast cancer is the type of cancer that most affects women in the world? According to INCA – National Cancer Institute, there were approximately 2.3 million new cases worldwide in 2020.

In Brazil, 73.6 thousand new cases of breast cancer were reported this year, with a risk of 66.54 cases per 100 thousand women. The disease is also the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Brazil, with an estimated 18,139 deaths in 2021—with the highest death rates in the southern and southeastern regions, according to INCA.

The main symptoms of breast cancer to look out for are a lump in the breast, usually firm, fixed and painless; nipple changes; changes in breast skin color, which may become reddish or have an orange peel-like texture; spontaneous discharge of fluid from one of the nipples and small nodules that may appear on the neck or armpits.

When diagnosed at an early stage, breast cancer has a 95% chance of cure, hence the importance of preventive screenings such as self-examination, mammography, breast ultrasound and others.

In an interview with the YouTube channel Help Emergency Medicals, radiologist Aline Bianchini, a diagnostic imaging specialist, tells us a little more about the importance of preventive screenings and the difference between them.

6 Important Screenings to Prevent Breast Cancer

Breast self-examination: Although breast self-examination is not a screening method in itself, women are encouraged to become familiar with their breasts and perform regular self-exams. This helps detect any changes such as lumps, lumps, changes in texture or pain that should be reported to your doctor.

Clinical breast examination: This examination is performed by a health care professional, such as a doctor or nurse, and consists of a physical examination of the breast, in which the specialist looks for any abnormalities, such as lumps or changes in the texture of the breast.

Mammogram: According to Dr. Alina Bianchini, mammography is the most important examination for breast screening. It consists of an X-ray of the breast and can identify non-palpable tumors. It is recommended for all women over 40 years of age, with indications for other studies being individualized.

Ultrasound of the breast: Ultrasonography is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the breast. It can be used as an adjunct to mammography in cases where there are suspicious areas that require further examination.

According to the radiologist, this examination is recommended for women with dense breasts as an additional examination. In this case, the patient undergoes mammography and ultrasound.

Magnetic resonance imaging: In an interview with Help, Aline explains that magnetic resonance imaging is an even more complex and even more individualized method of breast cancer screening. It is indicated for women at high risk, whether due to genetic mutations or other factors, who, using calculations and mathematical models or other situations, are indicated for additional screening to mammography.

Biopsy: The doctor explains that a biopsy is a different diagnostic method than screening. It serves to determine whether suspicious lesions have a confirmed diagnosis of cancer or not.

“These indications must be individualized and made by specialist doctors after analyzing screening imaging studies along with clinical data,” adds the radiologist.

Remember the importance of regular check-ups and being aware of any symptoms and signs. For example, with Help Medical Emergency, you have access to 24/7 telemedicine, allowing you to ask questions and consult with doctors at any time of the day, learn more about treatment, renew prescriptions, and request tests and medications.

Help also offers 24-hour pre-hospital care for on-site emergencies and emergencies, eliminating the need for the patient to travel, as well as state-of-the-art intensive care units and a highly trained medical team. The Family Plan, for example, in addition to covering all members of your family, also offers discounts on consultations and examinations of up to 50% at partner clinics and discounts at Sesi and Panvel pharmacies of up to 30% on medicines.

Remember that taking care of your health is fundamental. Self-examination and regular checkups are important to understand how the body works and act quickly. Early diagnosis of breast cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. To watch an interview with radiologist Aline Aline Bianchini, click here.

Assistance agreements

Clients of the Integral Help and Integral Corporate Help plans have agreements with several medical and related institutions. Therefore, if you are a client, you can undergo a preventive breast examination at partner clinics.

Visit the website of clinics, offices and other companies that have agreements: www.help-sc.com.br/convenios.