Breast Cancer Center

Monthly Breast Self-Examination: Breast self-examination every month is also recommended in this age group.
Annual Clinical Breast Examination: From the age of 40, a clinical breast examination should be performed by a doctor every year.
Mammography: From the age of 40, a regular mammogram is recommended every year. Mammography is the most effective imaging method that can detect breast cancer at an early stage.

Women with a family history of breast cancer, a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or other high risk factors should start breast checks at an earlier age and have more frequent screening. In this case, the doctor can usually recommend an earlier mammogram, ultrasound or MRI.

Breast cancer is a type of cancer caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast tissue. Breast cancer may not show symptoms in the early stages, so regular check-ups are important. However, some of the symptoms are as follows:

Common Symptoms:

Breast or Armpit Lump:
A palpable lump, usually firm and with irregular borders, is the most common symptom of breast cancer. However, lumps may not always be malignant.
Change in Breast Shape or Size:
Asymmetry in the breast, with one side being markedly different from the other or a change in size.
Changes in the Nipple:
The nipple is pulled inward (inversion), redness, crusting or discharge (bloody or clear fluid).
Changes in the Skin:
Changes in the skin of the breast such as redness, peau d'orange, thickening or dimpling.
Sores on the nipple or skin:
Wounds or ulceration that do not heal.
Pain:
Pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple, usually in advanced cases.

Early diagnosis is vital in breast cancer and greatly increases the success of treatment. The following should be done for early diagnosis:

Regular Self-Examination:
Performing regular breast self-examination every month to notice changes in the breast early.
Clinical Examination:
Regular clinical examinations by a doctor are very important, especially for women over 40.
Mammography:
Women aged 40 and over can detect breast cancer at an early stage by having an annual mammogram. Those in the high-risk group should have mammography at an earlier age and more frequently, as recommended by their doctor.
Lifestyle Changes:
Healthy lifestyle habits such as healthy eating, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can also reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Genetic Counseling:
Those with a family history of breast cancer or genetic predispositions can learn about their risk and participate in appropriate screening programs by undergoing genetic testing and counseling.

Early detection increases the treatability of breast cancer and improves survival. Therefore, it is important not to neglect regular screening and check-ups, with or without symptoms.

Breast self-examination is a simple and effective method that women can practice regularly to recognize early signs of breast cancer. This should be done within one week after the end of the menstrual period, when the breasts are least sensitive. Women who do not menstruate can choose to do the examination on the same day every month.

Review in the Mirror
Upper Body Review:
Stand in front of the mirror with your upper body naked and drop your arms to your sides.
Examine the shape, size and symmetry of your breasts. Is there a marked difference between the two breasts?
Check the skin for redness, dimpling, orange peel, swelling, or discoloration.
Examination with Raised Arms:
Slowly raise your arms up and examine your breasts again in this position. Pay attention to the movement of both breasts; does one move differently from the other?
Check for any swelling under the breasts, around the nipple or in the armpit area.
Leaning Forward Examination:
Place your hands on your hips, lean forward and examine your breasts again. In this position, you can more easily notice any changes or pulling of the skin.
Lying Examination
Breast Tissue Examination:
Place a small pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm under your head. You will examine your right breast with your left hand.
Keeping three fingers (index, middle and ring fingers) straight, examine your breast in small circular motions by applying light, medium and firm pressure.
Begin the examination at the nipple and move clockwise or along the up-and-down lines to examine the entire breast tissue, especially the inframammary and axillary areas.
Repeat for the other breast:
Place a pillow under your left shoulder, put your left arm under your head and examine your left breast with your right hand.
Standing or Shower Examination
Examination in the shower:
The lubrication of soapy water can facilitate the examination. While standing, examine your left breast with your right hand and your right breast with your left hand.
Using your fingertips, examine your breast, under breast and armpit with small circular movements.

Mass or Hardness: Hardness, lump or swelling felt in the breast or armpit.
Skin Changes: Pitting, thickening, redness or discoloration of the breast skin.
Nipple Changes: Inward pulling of the nipple, discharge (bloody or clear fluid), scabs or sores.
Change in breast shape or size: Asymmetry or size difference in the breast.

If you notice any lumps or abnormal changes that you notice during the examination.
If there is a bloody or clear discharge from the nipple.
If you feel a persistent hardness or swelling in the breast or armpit.
If there are obvious changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or thickening.

Breast self-examination is an important step in monitoring your breast health. This examination can help detect breast cancer early, but it is not a substitute for screening methods. Regular medical check-ups and recommended screening tests should not be neglected.