According to the statistics of STATISTICS FLANDERS is breast cancer the most common cancer in women. In 2021, there were 7,794 new cases of prostate cancer in the Flemish Region. In women, 6,860 new cases of breast cancer were registered in 2021, and a new diagnosis of breast cancer was also made in 62 men. According to the European Commission In 2022, an estimated 374,800 women in Europe were diagnosed with breast cancer, and it is estimated that 95,800 women will die from breast cancer.
Breast cancer in numbers
Worldwide, breast cancer accounts for 11.6% of all new cancer cases and 6.6% of all cancer deaths, according to data from the World Health Organisation (World Health Organization). The risk of a woman developing breast cancer varies with age: 0.5% at the age of 30, 1.5% at the age of 40 and 3.4% at the age of 60. Generally speaking, 1 in 8 women, regardless of age, is at risk of developing breast cancer.
The good news is that survival rates for breast cancer are very high, regardless of age, stage of the disease and treatment. The survival rates are impressive: 91% in the first 5 years after diagnosis, 86% 10 years after diagnosis and 80% 15 years after diagnosis. These positive results are made possible in part by ongoing developments in diagnostic and therapeutic methods.
Breast cancer symptoms
Lumps or thickening:
Discovering unusual lumps or thickenings in the breast can be a sign of breast cancer. Breast self-examination is an important habit to carry out regularly.
Changes in breast size or shape:
Breast cancer can lead to changes in breast size or shape. Look out for any unexplained asymmetries that occur.
Changes in the skin:
Changes in the skin over the breast, such as redness, scaling, or an orange-peel appearance, should be taken seriously.
Unusual pain or tenderness:
Unusual pain, tenderness, or a tingling sensation in the breast, especially when not related to the menstrual cycle, requires attention.
Changes in the nipples:
Changes such as nipple inversion, discharge (other than breast milk), or discolouration should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Swelling in the armpit
Swelling or lumps in the armpit can indicate lymph node involvement, which can be a sign of breast cancer.
Changes in skin texture:
An unusual hardening or thickening of the skin on the breast can be an indication of breast cancer.
It is important to emphasise that these symptoms do not always mean someone has breast cancer, but it is essential to notice changes and seek medical advice if in doubt. Regular self-examination and screenings are crucial for early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer. Always consult a healthcare professional if unusual symptoms are observed.
Breast cancer risk factor: Breast density
One of the main risk factors for the development of the disease is dense breast tissue. According to studies, women with dense breasts have a 3 to 6 times increased risk of developing breast cancer, and the detection of the tumour is Mammography Extremely difficult.
Breast density refers to the ratio of fat to fibrous tissue in the breast. Although it is a common hereditary trait – affecting more than 40% of women – it is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Both dense tissue and cancer appear white on a mammogram, so looking for lumps in women with dense breasts is like looking for a snowball in a snowstorm.
Ultrasound this can help solve this important problem, as it can bring “hidden” tumours to light in most of these difficult situations. Breast density is included in the Tyrer-Cuzick and the risk models Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium, who estimate the chance a woman will develop breast cancer within ten years, but also for the rest of her life.
In the world of radiology, ultrasound has been used for many years as a supplementary tool alongside mammography. Over the years, however, it has become apparent that despite its great importance, it is ultimately not always as objective as desired. Classic ultrasound has a major disadvantage: it is a subjective examination and is highly dependent on the skill and experience of the Radiologist.
Automated Breast Ultrasound System (ABUS)
For this reason, the so-called Automated Breast Ultrasound System (ABUS) developed. The goal of this system is to minimise the radiologist's intervention during image acquisition and increase the objectivity of the findings.
Discover all about this amazing innovation from GE HealthCare in our blog about Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS).
Research at Mediport: Radiology Department Opened
The radiology department at MCadix Medical Centre is ready for you. You can come here for all sorts of examinations, including Ultrasound, Mammography, X-ray (Radiography) A breast cancer screening. As the centre has recently opened, there are no waiting lists. Take action and enjoy the highest medical professionalism in a very pleasant environment.