In the country, this cancer is the second most common cancer —the first is cervical cancer— in women, and although it mostly affects those over 40 years of age, there are also 15 percent of cases in younger people. In this population group, it is more aggressive because it occurs in younger cells due to a genetic defect. In addition, it grows faster and has a tendency to metastasize —extension of a tumor to another part of the body—, says oncologist Walter García, head of surgery at the Cancer Institute (Incán).
“Although it is more aggressive, if detected in time the treatments (chemotherapy or radiotherapy) are quite effective and there is no need to perform a mastectomy. The chances of a cure are very high if it is detected and treated in time,” says García.
The real problem is that in most cases women come to the clinic when this tumor measures one centimeter and is palpable, which means that at least five or six years have passed since it began to form. When it is already that size, it means that it is advanced and the complications may be greater. For this reason, self-examination should be performed every month. In addition, a mammogram should be performed at least every year, even in women under 35 years of age, says García.
When there is a family history of cancer, medical evaluations should be at least twice a year, because this is a risk factor for developing a tumor.
How is it formed?
The body is made up of a set of organs made up of cells. These cells divide regularly in order to replace old ones and thus maintain proper functioning.
This process is regulated by a series of mechanisms that tell the cell when to begin dividing and when to remain stable. “If these mechanisms are altered in a cell, it and its descendants begin an uncontrollable division that will eventually form a tumor,” explains García, adding that breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the tissue of the mammary gland and can invade healthy tissues around it. It can reach distant organs and implant itself in them.
Prevention
The American Cancer Society published a study that indicates that the risk of breast cancer is reduced if women practice physical activity regularly, eat a balanced diet, limit the consumption of fats and red meats, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.