Treatment and prevention of breast cancer

Screening programs, early detection, and advances in breast cancer treatment have helped prevent high incidence rates in women. Therefore, in addition to preventive measures, early detection and treatment are extremely important.

Breast cancer treatments

Breast cancer is one of the diseases with a good prognosis and is curable if detected early. There are many treatment methods aimed at preserving as much healthy tissue as possible and removing cancerous tissue. The decision on treatment depends on the stage of the disease, hormone receptor status, age, and overall health of the patient.

A breast cancer surgery at the National Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. Photo: Ngoc Dung

Surgery: This is the primary method of treating breast cancer, ranging from wide excision surgery for early-stage tumors to radical mastectomy. When wide excision surgery is performed, post-operative radiation therapy is mandatory.

Radiation therapy: Surgery combined with radiation therapy is a treatment method for breast cancer. Radiation therapy aims to destroy cancer cells by preventing them from multiplying.

Chemotherapy and hormone therapy: Chemotherapy works by destroying any remaining cells after surgery or eliminating potential micrometastases.

Plastic surgery: To ensure the patient's aesthetic appearance, the plastic surgeon will choose a synthetic or modern material prosthetic breast to reconstruct the removed breast. Skin and tissue from another area of ​​the body can also be used to create a new breast, a procedure called breast reconstruction using vascularized skin flaps.

In addition, supportive care that minimizes the side effects of treatment and provides emotional support to patients is also crucial in helping them return to normal life more quickly.

Proactive prevention

Everyone is at risk of developing breast cancer. However, some groups are at higher risk, such as: women over 50; those with a family history of the disease; those with ovarian or endometrial cancer; and those who consume a lot of fat and alcohol. To reduce the risk of breast cancer, exercise daily and maintain a healthy diet. Limit fatty foods and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid exposure to chemicals, radiation, and cigarette smoke; do not drink alcohol. Avoid being overweight or obese. Do not wear bras that are too tight... Breastfeeding is also a way to prevent breast cancer.

Self-monitoring and regular breast examinations are the earliest ways to detect signs of breast cancer. If you notice a lump or any changes in your breast, you should immediately go to a medical facility for examination and necessary tests to get an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

According to Health and Life