Pink October: an opportunity for early breast cancer detection

Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women and the second most common cancer overall.

According to the World Health Organization, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally in 2020.

On the occasion of pink October, Hespress English spoke with oncologist and radiotherapist Doctor Bahiya Daoudi in order to raise awareness among Moroccan women for early detection and check-ups.

1-Does breast cancer affect young women aged 20 to 30?

It mostly affects menopausal or postmenopausal women, but it can also affect young women under the age of 30.

2- What should each woman do per year as a check-up?

Several actions can be implemented to promote early detection of breast cancer; an examination of breasts by a health professional is highly recommended each year, starting at the age of 25, and if the woman is aged 50 to 74, and has no symptoms or risk factors other than age, a mammogram every two years must be completed if required by ultrasound.

3- What are the steps to follow?

The steps to follow for a diagnostic are a mammogram and an ultrasound, and then a biopsy, as it is the only way to diagnose breast cancer for sure.

4-What are the first symptoms of breast cancer?

Symptoms of breast cancer are a new lump in the breast or underarm (armpit), thickening or swelling of part of the breast, irritation or dimpling of breast skin, unusual redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast, pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area, warmth. Any change in the size or the shape of the breast, or pain in any area of the breast require a mammogram and a check-up.

5-As an oncologist, what would you like to advise women in order to prevent breast cancer?

Breast cancer prevention starts with healthy habits, such as limiting the consumption of alcohol and cigarettes. it is also important to maintain a healthy weight as obesity can also increase the risk of breast cancer.

Be physically active: women have to be physically active because it helps keep the body mass index within the norms, maintaining a healthy weight.

Breast-feed: Breast-feeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer women breastfeed, the greater the protective effect.

Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy: Combination hormone therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Avoid exposure to sun radiation and air pollution.

6- What is the rate of women affected by breast cancer in Morocco?
In 2019, 10,414 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in the country.

7- What is the best treatment for breast cancer?

Surgery is usually the first type of treatment for breast cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the type of breast cancer, and it is usually followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy or, in some cases, hormone or targeted therapies.

8- Does the state contribute to the financial support of women affected by this type of cancer?

Yes, the state contributes to the financial support.

Since 2010, Morocco has implemented the national cancer prevention and control plan (PNPCC), in partnership with the Lalla Salma Foundation, for the prevention and treatment of various cancers.