Bangkok Breast Center

Overview of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that forms in the breast. Although men can get breast cancer, it is far more common in women. In most of the world, breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women. In Thailand this is not true; more women suffer from cervical cancer in the Kingdom than from breast cancer. Breast cancer is, however, a significant problem and its prevalence is increasing in Thailand.

Most tumors in the breast are benign, meaning they do not invade other tissue. Cancerous tumors, on the other hand, can metastasize or spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or through the lymphatic system. Larger tumors are more likely to metastasize. This means that early detection of malignant tumors is extremely important. This is especially true with breast cancer where early detected tumors are usually successfully treated.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer usually starts with a small lump in the breast, though pain or discomfort in the initial stages is uncommon. The following symptoms below may indicate breast cancer. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, please contact a physician immediately.

• The detection of unusual, hard lumps in the breasts
• A yellowish discharge from the nipples
• Inversion of the nipples
• Change in the shape of nipples as a result of tightening the breasts
• Change in the position of nipples
• Abnormal change in shape

Groups with a Higher Risk of Getting Breast Cancer

As with all cancers, certain groups are more prone to developing breast cancer. Research currently indicates the following are at greater risk:

• Women over 35 years of age
• Women who start their menstrual cycle at a young age
• Women whose menstrual cycle ends at a later age
• Women without children or women who have children after the age of 30
• Women with a family history of breast cancer before menopause
• Women who have taken oral contraceptives for a lengthy period of time
• Women who have undergone hormone replacement therapy after menopause

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Detecting breast cancer in its initial stages offers a better chance of curing the disease. During this time, the cancerous cells have less chance of spreading to other organs in the body, such as the liver, heart, lungs, bones and brain. The malignant lump in the breast can often be removed, avoiding the removal of the whole breast (mastectomy). Detecting breast cancer can be accomplished with a mammogram or by self-examination.

Women under 35 without a family history of breast cancer do not need to undergo a yearly mammogram. Their chances for having the disease are slight and mammograms of young women are difficult to interpret correctly. However, women under 35 who are at higher than normal risk should consult with a physician about periodic breast examinations and mammograms to ensure they have not developed breast cancer. Women over 35 should undergo annual breast examinations along with a mammogram and ultrasound exam.

Mammograms at Bangkok Breast Center

At Bangkok Hospital we have one of the very few digital mammogram machines in Asia. The imaging process involves compressing the breast onto the machine to detect lumps, without exposing the breast to high levels of radiation. The mammogram process is not painful, especially if performed one week after the end of the menstrual period. Ultrasound examinations are also used in detecting breast cancer, as they can help determine whether the lump is solid – an indication of a more severe abnormality.

Self Breast Examinations

Self breast examinations should be conducted on a regular basis – at least once a month – for early detection of breast cancer. It is recommended that self breast examinations be conducted while lying down, bathing, and in front of a mirror. The best time to conduct a self-breast examination is one week after menstruation as the breasts are softer and smaller during this period.

Step 1: While Taking a Bath

Use your fingertips to examine your breasts by moving in a circular motion over the breast. 

Step 2: Infront of the Mirror

a. Stand straight with your arms to the sides. Raise your arms above your head and observe your breasts. By moving your arms upwards, you will be able to see the shape of your breasts clearly and notice any developing abnormality.

b. Stand straight and put your hands on your waist. Tense your abdominal muscles tightly to induce pressure on your breasts. Observe your breasts to see if they appear normal.

Step 3: Self Examination While Lying Down

Lie down on your back and put one of your palms underneath your head.

Use the other hand to feel your breasts. Move your hand firmly in a circular motion from the outside to the inside of the breast. Try to explore all areas of the breast to self detect any kind of lumps.

Slowly press around your nipples, using your forefinger and thumb to check for any nipple discharge.

The area where breast cancer is most detected is the upper part of the breast below the collarbone. This area should be closely examined for any kind of unusual lumps in the glands.

For more information, please ease contactt
Bangkok Breast Center
Tel. (662) 310 3016
Email : info@bangkokhospital.com