Get rid of the misunderstanding about breast cancer and prevent and treat it scientifically to stay healthy

Author: Liu Xinwei, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Reviewer: Zhu Mingzhi, deputy chief physician, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Breasts are one of the unique symbols of women. They not only nurture new life, but are also closely related to women's health. So, how should we pay attention to breast health? When should we take action? These are the basic common sense that every woman should master.

Figure 1 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

Common misunderstanding 1: Breast discomfort means breast tumor?

Starting from puberty, female breasts gradually develop and accompany them throughout life. Although breasts are healthy most of the time, sometimes we feel breast discomfort. This discomfort may manifest as a tingling sensation, fullness or other indescribable pain. The duration ranges from a few days to a few weeks, and it is more common before menstruation. So, does this mean that there is a breast tumor? The answer is no.

Most breast discomfort is caused by breast hyperplasia due to emotions, stress and other factors. This is a common functional disease and will not turn into a tumor. Breast hyperplasia does not pose a threat to physical health, but the discomfort it brings cannot be ignored. In this regard, keeping a relaxed mood and managing stress are effective ways to relieve discomfort. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to go to the hospital for examination, rule out other diseases and follow the doctor's advice.

Common misconception 2: Finding a breast lump means cancer?

The breast is an organ on the surface of the body, and lumps and nodules are common physical examination findings. When a lump is felt or a physical examination indicates the presence of a nodule, many people will feel nervous, worrying that this is a sign of a tumor. In fact, understanding the structure of the breast can help us correctly understand these situations. The breast is mainly composed of skin, subcutaneous fat, connective tissue, mammary glands, and nipples. It is a complex organ, and the mammary gland is an accessory gland of the skin, a compound tubulo-alveolar gland, and is the main component of the breast. The mammary gland is composed of 15 to 20 lobes, and each lobe is further divided into small lobes and milk duct structures. Due to the complex tree-root-like structure of the mammary gland, breast nodules do not necessarily mean disease.

Figure 1 Female breast and mammary gland anatomy (copyrighted image not authorized for reproduction)

So how do we determine whether these nodules need to be treated? First, the safest approach is to go to the hospital and be evaluated by a professional doctor. Secondly, learning some basic knowledge can also help us make a preliminary judgment.

Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes "seeing, touching, tapping, and listening". For breast health, we can conduct a preliminary examination through "seeing" and "touching". The following are several key steps for self-examination.

(1) Observe breast morphology

Observe both breasts carefully in front of a mirror, and pay attention to whether there is asymmetry in size, local bulges or depressions, and whether the skin is red, swollen, or has "orange peel" changes. At the same time, observe whether the veins on the surface of the breasts are abnormally dilated, and whether the nipples and areolas are eroded. Pay special attention to whether the nipples are inverted, sunken, or the nipples on both sides are not at the same level. If you find these conditions, you should seek medical attention immediately.

(2) Palpation examination

Use the pads of your palms to gently touch your breasts (do not pinch them with your fingertips) and thoroughly examine your breasts and armpits. Comparing the left and right breasts can help you detect possible abnormalities. If you find any lumps or masses during palpation, you should pay attention to them.

(3) Gently squeeze the nipples

Observe for any discharge. If there is any discharge, record the color and amount, especially if it is bloody, brown, or yellow. If you find traces of liquid on your underwear or if there is discharge when squeezing, seek medical attention immediately.

Common misunderstanding 3: Breast problems are equivalent to breast cancer?

Breast tumors include benign and malignant tumors. Among them, benign tumors such as breast fibroadenomas and intraductal papilloma are common, while malignant tumors - breast cancer do need to be taken seriously. The early manifestations of breast cancer are mostly painless single small lumps that are difficult to move and have unclear boundaries. Through regular self-examination and screening, breast cancer can be effectively detected early and treated in time.

In order to avoid unnecessary panic, we need to correctly understand breast health issues. Although breast tumors may bring certain health risks, most breast diseases are controllable through scientific prevention and treatment methods, early detection and early treatment. Regular physical examinations, paying attention to physical changes, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important means of preventing and treating breast diseases.

Breast health is not only related to individual women, but also to the family and society. Let us get rid of the misunderstanding of breast tumors and protect our health with scientific methods!