Breast cancer screening

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in breast tissue. It is the most common type of cancer worldwide and can also occur in men. However, it is one of the most devastating diseases for women. Each year, breast cancer accounts for approximately 30% of all new cancer cases in women in the United States. Around 1 in 8 women (13%) in the U.S., and 1 in 10 women in Colombia, will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives.

Currently, breast cancer cannot be prevented—there are no medications, therapies, or vaccines that can stop it from developing. For this reason, all efforts focus on early detection.

Early Warning Signs (often asymptomatic in initial stages):

• A lump in the breast or underarm.
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
• Nipple discharge (clear, yellow, or bloody).
• Redness or dimpling of the skin on the breast.
• Changes in the nipple (inversion or retraction).
  
  

Why Early Detection Matters

Screening tests can detect breast cancer in its early stages—before symptoms appear—when it is most treatable. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes: higher cure rates, less aggressive treatments, and less invasive surgeries with fewer side effects.

A clinical breast exam is performed by a doctor or nurse using their hands to check for lumps or changes. It is recommended once a year.

Specialists in Breast Cancer

The mastologist is the specialist trained to diagnose and treat both benign and malignant breast diseases. In cases of breast cancer, care involves a multidisciplinary team including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and more.