HONG KONG – Media OutReach Newswire – October 23, 2024 – Every October, the world is dyed pink to remind the public to pay attention to breast cancer, the number one killer of women’s health. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in Hong Kong. Nearly 30% of new cancer cases in 2021 will be breast cancer patients¹. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the cure rate. In view of this, Renhe Physical Examination launched a comprehensive women’s health examination to pay attention to breast cancer and jointly protect women’s health.
Renhe Physical Examination stated that women aged 20 and above can receive regular gynecological examinations, and women with sexual experience are recommended to undergo cervical screening. In addition to ultrasound examinations (breast ultrasound, pelvic ultrasound), tumor markers are also one of the focus of examination items including: breast cancer tumor marker CA 15.3, ovarian tumor marker CA125. In addition to breast cancer prevention, women’s health examinations include cervical cancer screening, Human Papilloma Virus Testing (Genotyping) HPV DNA, Calcium Screening, Hormone Screening and more. Comprehensive care for women’s health. Women who are planning to have children can undergo anti-Mullerian hormone testing for AMH, which is an important indicator of predicting the egg inventory in the ovaries. Women aged 40 or above are approaching menopause and are at higher risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis. It is recommended to take a calcium check. Regular gynecological examinations can help detect related risks early.
Breast cancer: a threat to women’s health that cannot be ignored
Breast cancer refers to the abnormal proliferation of cells in the breast tissue, which will form tumors. Tumors are divided into benign and malignant. Malignant tumors in the breast are breast cancer. Although breast cancer mainly occurs in women, men can also develop it. The causes of breast cancer are complex, including genetics, hormones, lifestyle habits and other factors.
Common symptoms of breast cancer
- A lump or hard lump in the breast
- Dimpling or wrinkles in breast skin
- Dilated veins or orange peel-like changes in the skin
- Abnormal discharge from the nipple, especially bloody discharge
- Changes in the skin of the nipple or areola, such as ulcers, redness, swelling, scaling, etc.
- swollen lymph nodes under armpit
If lumps appear in the breasts, it is necessary to observe whether it is before the menstrual period. This is because changes in cyclic hormone secretion can cause breast swelling or lumps. However, if you suspect that a lump in your breast is unusual, you should seek medical examination immediately.
How to prevent breast cancer
Although the occurrence of breast cancer cannot be completely avoided, the public can reduce the risk through the following methods:
First, maintain a healthy lifestyle. Make sure to follow good lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising moderately, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Second, have regular breast exams. Women aged 40 or above are recommended to have a mammogram every year, especially if there is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
Breast cancer treatment: A multi-pronged approach to regaining health
Breast cancer treatment is not a single method, but a personalized treatment plan is developed based on the patient’s condition, age, physical condition and other factors. Common treatments include:
First, surgical treatment
Tumor removal is the most common treatment for breast cancer. Surgical methods include breast conservation surgery, total mastectomy, etc. So what’s the difference between the two?
Breast conserving surgery has less impact on the appearance of the breast, but is only suitable for small lumps located on the periphery of the breast, and is supplemented by radiation therapy. Total mastectomy is more common when there is a large lump in the breast or there are cancer cells in different parts of the breast. For example, if the skin has been affected, a total mastectomy is required.
After surgery, patients can choose to wear prosthetic breasts or undergo breast reconstruction surgery to make both breasts look even and natural.
Second, radiotherapy
Commonly known as electrotherapy, it uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used as auxiliary treatment after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Third, chemical treatment
Drugs are used to kill cancer cells before or after the patient undergoes surgery. These drugs help doctors destroy and disrupt the growth and division of cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Fourth, targeted therapy
Targeted therapy can enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy by targeting cancer cells with specific genetic mutations, such as HER2-type breast cancer.
Fifth, hormonal treatment
It is suitable for breast cancer with a positive response to hormone receptors. It uses drugs to inhibit the stimulation of hormones on cancer cells and prevent the development of cancer cells.
Integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine to improve curative effect
In addition to Western medicine treatment, Chinese medicine can also play an important role in the treatment of breast cancer. Traditional Chinese medicine uses syndrome differentiation and treatment, using traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and other methods to help patients increase their immunity, adjust their mood and sleep, and improve their quality of life.
Cancer tumor markers are proteins secreted by normal cells or benign and malignant tumor cells in the body. When suffering from malignant tumors, the protein concentration in the blood or urine will be abnormally high. Therefore, cancer tumor marker screening is expected to enable early detection, diagnosis and treatment, thereby increasing the survival rate.
Causes of elevated tumor markers
When cancer occurs, a substance called a “tumor marker” appears in the body. It may be a by-product of cancer cells or the body’s response to the tumor. Most tumor markers are proteins that can be obtained from blood or urine. detected.
Tumor markers can be produced by cancer cells but also by normal cells. Sometimes non-cancer conditions can also cause tumor markers to increase. Furthermore, not all cancer patients will have increased tumor markers. For this reason, doctors often use only a few of these tumor markers.
The role of tumor markers
Can be used for cancer screening: Cancer screening refers to detecting whether there is cancer before symptoms appear, and detection is to detect early stage cancer as early as possible. The original purpose of tumor markers is to help doctors detect cancer early, and some markers can be used in screening and detection.
Can determine cancer response: One of the most important uses of tumor markers is to monitor patient progress during treatment. If the tumor markers decrease as treatment progresses, it means that the treatment effect is significant, but if they continue to increase, the treatment may not be effective, and doctors need to consider changing to new treatments.
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Breast Cancer Awareness: A Light-Hearted Dive into a Serious Topic
Ah, October! The month when the world turns pink, and not just because the fashion police are away. No, this is about something far more serious – breast cancer awareness. It’s like that friend who only comes around during a crisis, but it’s good to see them nonetheless because it reminds you to keep checking in on your health! After all, ladies, breast cancer is not one of those things you want to be ‘surprised’ by. Trust me; nobody likes surprises that involve a hospital gown.
Understanding the Basics
Now, breast cancer is a big deal, especially in Hong Kong, where it accounts for nearly 30% of new cancer cases. Yes, 30%! You’d think we were ordering dim sum and they were serving cancer cases instead! But don’t despair; the earlier it’s caught, the better. Think of early detection as the friend who always brings dessert – a real lifesaver!
Finding the Right Check-Ups
So what do these fancy examinations look like at Renhe Physical Examination? Well, they roll out the red carpet for ladies aged 20 and older with regular gynecological exams. For those with a little more experience (you know what I mean), cervical screenings are recommended. And if you think ‘ultrasound’ is just for viewing your future little bundle of joy, think again. We’re all about breast ultrasound, pelvic ultrasound, and a few fancy tumor markers like CA 15.3 and CA125. I mean, who wouldn’t want to collect an array of markers like Pokémon cards?
Know The Signs
Now, let’s talk symptoms! No, they’re not the latest TikTok dances, but you should watch out for:
- A lump or hard lump in the breast (not the one from the cheeseburger you had last week)
- Dimpling or wrinkles in the breast skin
- Changes in nipple skin—let’s say it shouldn’t look like an orange peel unless you’re prepping for a Citrus Olympics
- Bloody discharge from the nipple (and not from a heroic act like fighting off a bear)
- Swollen lymph nodes under the armpit (that’s just your body yelling “Send help!”)
If you notice any of these, don’t wait for Halloween; call your doctor immediately! Because spooky surprises belong in horror movies, not in your body!
Prevention: Keep It Healthy
The good news is that while we can’t completely avoid breast cancer (seriously, what kind of sorcery do you think that is?), we can certainly lower the risk. A few helpful tips? Sure thing!
1. Live Healthily: Eat well, exercise, avoid smoking, and don’t turn your liver into a piñata from excessive drinking. Your body is not a trash can; treat it right!
2. Regular Check-Ups: If you’re over 40, take note! A mammogram every year is like having your annual self-care day but with slightly less bubble bath and slightly more… well, mammograms.
Treatment Options
Now, if the diagnosis isn’t as cheerful as we’d like, don’t panic; treatment is multi-faceted!:
Surgical Treatment: Removing tumors is the name of the game. Think of it as decluttering your closet, but with a bit more medical precision.
Radiotherapy: Those rays aren’t just for making superhero movies; they can zap those pesky cancer cells right outta here!
Chemotherapy: This one’s a bit like an unwanted blind date; you go through it in hopes that it changes the dynamic, but the side effects can be a bit daunting.
Targeted Therapy: This is more high-tech, aimed at specific genetic mutations like a marksman in a shooting gallery. If only I could apply the same to my darts game!
Hormonal Treatment: It’s for that special kind of breast cancer that responds to hormones. Kind of like how chocolate responds to my cravings – it’s a match made in heaven!
Final Thoughts on Tumor Markers
And let’s not forget about those tumor markers – they’re not just fancy science labels; they’re crucial in determining what’s happening in your body. Think of them as your body’s “news ticker.” They tell you when everything’s hunky-dory or when it’s time to grab a sandwich and take it seriously.
In conclusion, breast cancer awareness is vital to our health. It’s serious business, folks, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a cheeky chat about it! If you have breasts, or even if you don’t, let’s talk about breast cancer—because knowledge is power, and life is too short to treat health topics like whispering secrets in a library!
Fun and a lot more importance. Plus, if there’s family history of cancer, you better have that mammogram on speed dial!
Interview Segment
To delve deeper into these crucial insights on breast cancer awareness, we spoke with Dr. Emily Chen, an oncologist at Renhe Physical Examination.
Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Chen. October is recognized for breast cancer awareness. Why is it essential for women to pay attention to this health issue?
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me! Awareness is vital because early detection can significantly improve survival rates. In Hong Kong, breast cancer represents one of the primary health threats to women. By promoting awareness in October, we aim to encourage women to be proactive about their health.
Q: That’s a critical point. How can women ensure they’re taking the right steps for early detection?
Dr. Chen: Regular gynecological examinations are essential for women starting at age 20, and those over 40 should have annual mammograms. It’s equally important to be aware of the symptoms, such as lumps or changes in breast appearance, and to seek medical attention if something feels off.
Q: You mentioned some advanced screening options at Renhe Physical Examination. Can you briefly explain the significance of tumor markers?
Dr. Chen: Certainly! Tumor markers like CA 15.3 and CA125 are proteins that can indicate the presence of breast or ovarian cancer. Elevated levels can prompt further investigation, aiding in early detection. However, it’s important to remember that not all patients will have elevated markers, so we use a combination of tests for the best results.
Q: And for women concerned about treatment, what do they need to know about the options available?
Dr. Chen: Treatment plans are personalized based on several factors, including cancer type and stage. Options include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. We also consider integrating traditional Chinese medicine to help enhance the overall treatment experience.
Q: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to women during this awareness month?
Dr. Chen: I want to emphasize that knowledge is power. Don’t hesitate to reach out for check-ups, understand your body, and build a supportive community around you. Together, we can tackle this disease head-on and improve outcomes for all women.
Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights on such an important topic. Ladies, let’s keep it pink and stay proactive about our health!
And to report any unusual changes to a healthcare provider immediately. Education is key; knowing what to look for can make all the difference.
Q: Speaking of symptoms, what are some of the common signs women should be aware of?
Dr. Chen: Common symptoms include the presence of a lump or hardening in the breast, changes in breast shape or skin texture, and any abnormal discharge from the nipple. Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial, as they can indicate breast cancer, but they can also signify other health issues that need attention.
Q: There seems to be a focus on not just awareness, but prevention as well. Can you provide some tips on how to reduce the risk of breast cancer?
Dr. Chen: Absolutely! Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is paramount—this includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Additionally, staying on top of routine screenings is vital. If you have a family history of breast cancer, being particularly vigilant with your check-ups is essential.
Q: In terms of treatment, what advancements have been made for breast cancer patients in recent years?
Dr. Chen: Treatment options have become more personalized and sophisticated. We now have targeted therapies that allow us to focus specifically on the genetic makeup of a tumor. There’s also a growing integration of traditional Chinese medicine alongside Western treatment approaches, which can support patients’ overall well-being during their cancer journey.
Q: what message would you like to leave our viewers regarding breast cancer awareness?
Dr. Chen: I urge everyone to take charge of their health, prioritize screenings, and educate themselves about breast cancer. Remember, awareness leads to action—so don’t hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have. Let’s work together to combat this disease!
Q: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your valuable insights. Let’s spread the word and make breast cancer awareness a priority this October and beyond!
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me! Together, we can make a difference.
