Breast Cancer is the most common form of cancer in Qatar, making up almost a third of all cancers diagnosed here every year. Although there are a number of different types of Breast Cancer, around 80% are what are known as invasive ductal carcinomas (IVCs), which arise from the lining of the milk ducts within the breast. The risk of IVC rises steadily with age, with about two-thirds of cases being found in women over 55, although men can also be affected. Without treatment the cancer can grow into the surrounding breast tissue, blood vessels and lymph nodes, from where it can spread around the rest of the body. Once this happens, the chance of successful treatment becomes poor.
Despite this, more and more people are beating Breast Cancer as better treatments become available all the time. If caught quickly, minor surgery to remove the tumour, referred to as a lumpectomy, might be all that is needed. Larger tumours may need more extensive surgery, which is usually supported with radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Other promising and more targeted treatments may be used as well, such as immunotherapy, which helps the body’s own immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
There are also a number of things that those with Breast Cancer can do to help themselves fight the disease. Keeping a healthy weight is really important, as there is evidence that an excessive amount of body fat can actually stimulate Breast Cancer to grow more quickly. Eating well and being physically active can also be a useful way to stay healthy during treatment and be able to recover more quickly afterwards.
Early diagnosis is key though in fighting the disease, the earlier the better, and fortunately it’s often possible to identify Breast Cancer early at home using breast self-examination. This involves carefully feeling around the breast for lumps, bumps or anything else that seems unusual, such as dimpling in the skin. Anything suspicious or worrying should be reported immediately to a health professional but a simple monthly check takes only a few minutes and can help to flag any potential problems early. Hamad Medical Corporation have published an excellent guide to self-examination. So, while you’re enjoying the Expo or the slightly cooler weather that October brings, remember that a few minutes spent every month on breast self-examination is something that could end up saving your life.
