www.womanthismonth.com 71 October 2014 Get Screened According to Dr Neetha Ravi, specialist — general surgery at Royal Bahrain Hospital, “Breast cancer is often first detected as an abnormality on a radiography screening before it is felt by the patient or healthcare provider. All women should undergo annual exams starting at the age of 30.” She recommends that women with a family history of cancer should begin screening 10 years prior to the family member’s age of diagnosis. About 15 per cent of breast cancer cases have a family history of the disease. “If you have one first-degree relative, who had breast cancer, the risk of cancer doubles, and increases five-fold if you have two relatives. Although familial type of breast cancers cannot be prevented, they can be diagnosed early for curative treatment,” she explains. “Breast lumps should be checked for, ideally about seven to nine days after period starts. You should consult a doctor if a significant change is detected. These changes could include lumps, abnormal discharge, unusual breast pain, and colour or texture changes of the breast’s skin.” Lower the risk Other factors that would reduce the risk of breast cancer would be to exercise for 45 minutes to 60 minutes per day for five days a week, which would boost the immune system, ward off obesity, and lower levels of oestrogen and insulin. Regular alcohol consumption could increase breast cancer risk by 21 per cent. On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Royal Bahrain Hospital has introduced preventive screening packages. Book an appointment today. Call 17 246-800. Increased awareness and improved screening have led to earlier diagnoses of breast cancer, leading to significant improvement in survival rates.
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