According to the Ministry of Health, in the last decade, 22,174 women in Colombia have lost their lives to breast cancer, making it one of the leading causes of death in this population.

In Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our Clinic joins the call to raise awareness by sharing important information and encouraging self-care.

Is Breast Cancer Curable?

Cancer is often associated with death; however, if detected early through self-exams or imaging, treatment usually involves removing the tumor and performing post-surgical treatment. If diagnosed late or with metastasis, the treatment is likely to be palliative.

Does Breast Cancer Induce Menopause?

Breast cancer is hormone-dependent. If a woman is diagnosed and treated during the premenopausal period, treatment may induce menopause.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer and completing treatment, can it reappear?

Breast cancer, like all cancers, can recur within the first five years, even if the tumor was removed or detected early. Therefore, follow-ups with an oncologist or hematologist-oncologist are essential.

Can the type of diet cause breast cancer?

Breast cancer patients can maintain their usual diet. This disease occurs spontaneously, is caused by a genetic alteration, and may be hereditary, but it is not related to diet or environment.

If Detected and Treated Early, Are Additional Procedures Unnecessary?

This depends on the tumor’s characteristics. In some cases, even after tumor removal, complementary chemotherapy is required to eliminate it.

Can Breast Implants Cause Breast Cancer?

It has not been proven, but breast implants may be linked to a hematological disease called associated lymphoma. Women with implants should also perform self-exams since they still have glands and breast tissue where cancer can develop.

Periodic imaging follow-ups are necessary for prevention.

Is Breast Cancer Only Present in Women?

It is a myth that breast cancer only affects older women. This disease can affect everyone: men, women, young, or elderly. For this reason, everyone should be vigilant about warning signs. Attention to all signals is essential.

Finally, all women are encouraged to perform self-examinations to identify any irregularities and consult a doctor in a timely manner. Self-examination contributes to the early detection of breast cancer, allowing for a cure in its early stages and reducing the need for chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

It’s not just about October; self-care is lifelong. Prevention is in your hands. Check yourself!