Essential Knowledge and FAQs About Breast Health and Cancer Prevention

Basic Knowledge and Inquiries About Breasts

Hello Doctor: I am Reena, a news editor for a women's website.
I noticed that your site emphasizes "the importance of cherishing medical resources," but many of our female readers still lack clarity and implementation regarding breast cancer prevention.
Therefore, I have a few questions I would like to ask, which will be presented in the article as "doctor's recommendations" (including name and affiliation).
We will also include a simple demonstration video on breast examination.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause!
(1) Is it too early to start breast examinations during puberty? At what age should the concept of breast self-examination be established?
(2) Besides the breasts, can lumps appear in other areas? (Such as the armpits, ribs, or other locations)
(3) If a lump is found in the breast and the examination results are benign, is surgical removal always necessary?
(4) How often do you recommend women undergo "breast cancer screening"?
I look forward to your response.
Thank you very much!

Reena, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/26

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello!
1.
A breast examination during puberty is not too early, as if a lump is detected and an ultrasound reveals a tumor, it is usually benign and can be monitored.
At least there will be a record for future comparisons in adulthood.
2.
Hard lumps can occur not only in the breast but also in the axilla, often due to inflammation of adjacent tissues causing lymphadenopathy.
However, it is essential to rule out the possibility of axillary lymph node metastasis, so breast examination, breast ultrasound, and mammography (recommended for those over 30) should still be performed.
3.
If a hard lump appears in the breast, a basic breast examination, breast ultrasound, and mammography should be conducted first.
If it is clearly a fibroadenoma or a fibrocystic change, it can be monitored.
If it enlarges, a core needle biopsy should be performed to confirm whether it is a fibroadenoma or a fibrocystic change.
If the core needle biopsy report indicates a phyllodes tumor, complete excision is recommended.
If it indicates sclerosing adenosis, the decision to excise or monitor depends on the size.
If benign cells are seen but a clear diagnosis cannot be made, complete excision is also advised.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy is not recommended due to the risk of misdiagnosis.
4.
There are no specific breast cancer screening guidelines; however, the National Health Administration provides biennial mammography screening for women aged 45 and older, and those with a family history (within second-degree relatives) can start at age 40.
If symptoms such as breast pain, lumps, nipple discharge, or axillary lumps occur before age 45, it is advised to consult a breast surgeon directly.
Wishing you peace and well-being!

Reply Date: 2016/08/26

More Info

Dear Reena,
Thank you for reaching out with your important questions regarding breast health and cancer prevention. It’s crucial to address these topics, as many women may not fully understand the significance of regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices in reducing the risk of breast cancer. Below, I will provide answers to your questions based on current medical guidelines and practices.

1. Is it too early to check breasts during puberty? At what age should one start breast self-examinations?
It is never too early to start educating young women about breast health. While formal breast cancer screening typically begins at age 40 for average-risk women, breast self-examination (BSE) can start in the teenage years. Teaching young women to be familiar with their breasts can help them notice any changes early on. The American Cancer Society recommends that women in their 20s and 30s should perform BSE monthly and have clinical breast exams every three years. This practice helps establish a baseline for what is normal for them and encourages proactive health management.

2. Can lumps appear in areas other than the breast?
Yes, lumps can occur in various areas of the body, including the axilla (armpit), ribcage, and other soft tissues. Lumps in the axillary region may indicate swollen lymph nodes, which can be due to infections or other conditions, including cancer. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if any unusual lumps are detected, regardless of their location, to determine the cause and necessary follow-up.

3. If a lump in the breast is diagnosed as benign, is it always necessary to remove it?
Not all benign lumps require surgical removal. The decision to excise a benign lump depends on several factors, including the size, type, and symptoms associated with the lump. For instance, a simple cyst or a lipoma may not need to be removed if it is not causing discomfort or other issues. However, regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are essential to ensure that the lump remains stable and does not change in character.

4. How often should women undergo breast cancer screening?
The general recommendation for breast cancer screening varies based on age and risk factors. For average-risk women, the American Cancer Society advises annual mammograms starting at age 45, with the option to begin at 40. Women aged 55 and older can switch to biennial screenings or continue annual screenings based on personal preference and health status. Additionally, women should continue to perform monthly breast self-exams and have clinical breast exams as part of their routine healthcare.

In conclusion, breast health is a vital aspect of women's health, and understanding the importance of regular screenings and self-examinations can significantly impact early detection and treatment outcomes. Encouraging open conversations about breast health and providing educational resources can empower women to take charge of their health. Thank you for your commitment to raising awareness through your platform, and I hope this information proves helpful for your article.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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