October arrived and with it we started the Pink October campaign, which is an international movement for the early detection of breast cancer.

According to the National Cancer Institute, for the year 2023, 73,610 new cases were estimated, which represents an adjusted incidence rate of 41.89 cases per 100,000 women (INCA, 2022).

It is extremely important for women to pay attention to their breasts whenever they feel comfortable doing so, whether during the shower, when changing clothes, or at any time in their daily routine.

It is not necessary to follow a specific technique; Assessing the occasional discovery of small changes in the breasts is essential.

In addition to paying attention to your own body, it is also recommended that women ages 50 to 69 have a screening mammogram (when there are no signs or symptoms) every two years.

This test can help identify cancer before symptoms appear.

The main signs and symptoms of breast cancer are:

• Fixed, hardened, usually painless lump (nodule);
  Red, retracted or orange peel-like skin on the chest;
• changes in the nipple;
  Small nodules in the region under the arms (armpits) or on the neck;
• Spontaneous release of fluid from the nipples.

Breast cancer can be identified at an early stage in most cases, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment and cure.

All women, regardless of age, have the power to know their own body and distinguish what is normal from what is not normal in their breasts.

One of the most accessible ways to prevent and detect breast cancer early is breast self-examination.

Self-examination is a technique that allows a woman to examine her own breasts, looking for possible changes that may indicate the presence of a tumor.

It is essential to emphasize that self-examination does not replace mammography, which is a more accurate imaging test and highly recommended for breast cancer screening, especially in women over 40 years of age.

Here are some basic steps to perform a breast self-exam:

• Choosing a suitable time: The self-exam can be performed standing or lying down. Choose a quiet, comfortable place where you feel comfortable taking the exam.
• Look at yourself in the mirror: Start by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your arms at your sides. Notice if there are any differences in the shape, size, or contour of the breasts. Also watch the skin for redness, swelling, or roughness.
• Raise your arms: Raise your arms above your head and look at your breasts again for any changes.
• Examine lying down: Lie on your back and place a pillow under your right shoulder. With your left hand, gently touch your right breast with your fingertips. Use circular or straight movements, always gentle, to feel for lumps, lumps, or changes in the texture of the breast. Repeat the process for the left breast, using your right hand.
• Pressing the nipples: Also check the nipples, observing if there are abnormal secretions, such as blood or pus.
• Examine the armpits: Don’t forget to check the armpits for any lumps or lumps.
• Consult a doctor: If you find any changes during the self-examination, such as a lump or any other concern, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible for a professional evaluation.

It should be noted that around 30% of breast cancer cases can be prevented by incorporating healthy habits into our daily lives.

Among these beneficial practices are:

• Regular Physical Activity: Maintain a physical exercise routine.
• Healthy Eating: Choose foods that promote health.
  Maintain an Adequate
• Body Weight: Avoid being overweight.
• Avoid the Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages: Limit or eliminate alcohol consumption.
• Breastfeeding: When possible, breastfeed your baby.

Remembering that self-examination is not an infallible method, and mammography remains the most effective test for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Therefore, all women should follow the examination recommendations according to their age and medical history, in addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking information on prevention and breast health care during Pink October and throughout the year.

*This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or substitute a consultation with a qualified physician or surgeon.