Screening for Breast Cancer
In india the most common cancer among females is Breast Cancer followed by Cervic Cancer and the Colon Cancer.
Who is most at risk :
- Any female above the age of 50 years, maximum incidence in India is between 33-60 years
- Having 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree relatives of Breast Cancer
- Having BRCA1 and NRCA2 gene mutation +ve
- Having relatives with ovarian cancer
- Who has taken HRT after menopause
When to start screening
In high risk people
- 1st screening should be done before 40 years by sono-mammography ( sonography of the breast )
- From 40-49 years, every 2-3 years by mammography ( x-ray of the chest )
- From 50 -60 years, every year by mammography
In average risk people
- 1st screening at 50 years by mammography
- Ever 1-2 years till 60 years
- After 60 years, depending on the result of previous screen
If anytime screening is +ve or suspicious, then refer Patient to a Breast Surgeon.