Pinktober marks the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and with breast cancer still one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women globally, it’s an important reminder for mums, grandmothers, and all women to take time to check their breasts regularly.

This global health campaign, organised every October by major breast cancer charities and healthcare providers, was created to raise awareness about the disease and to fund research into its causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. Through spreading awareness and educating women on early screening and self-checking, the Pinktober movement continues to be one of the strongest tools in the fight against breast cancer. The pink ribbon, first introduced in 1993, has since become the worldwide symbol of breast cancer awareness. Each October, landmarks, hospitals, and communities across the globe, including here in Phuket, light up in pink and host events in support of this meaningful cause.

With over 2 million new cases diagnosed worldwide in 2019, breast cancer accounts for more than 10% of all cancers and 23% of those diagnosed in women. The good news is that when detected early, breast cancer is highly treatable which is why education, awareness, and regular screenings are so vital. Many doctors also recommend talking to your daughters early about breast health and the importance of knowing how to self-check.

Controllable Risks

Research shows that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. This includes keeping a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying active through regular exercise. Additionally, recent studies suggest that hormone replacement therapy (HRT), when used for more than a year or without proper medical supervision, may increase certain health risks. It’s always best to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor to make informed decisions about your health.

Non-Controllable Risks

Being female is the main risk factor for breast cancer, but age also plays a role, with most cases occurring in women over 50. However, younger women are not immune, and rates vary widely between countries. The World Health Organization reports that incidence rates tend to be higher in more developed nations, while mortality rates are often higher in less developed regions.

Some breast cancers are hereditary. Mutations in specific genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are responsible for producing proteins that protect cell DNA, can increase the likelihood of abnormal cell growth and cancer. Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer should consider genetic testing or increased screening.

Early Detection

Breast cancer can present in many different forms and stages, and sometimes there are no visible symptoms in the early stages. That’s why regular self-exams and medical screenings are essential for early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

Screening

Early detection is the key to simpler treatment and higher survival rates. Regular screenings, even for women without symptoms, can detect abnormalities long before they can be seen or felt. A mammogram and breast ultrasound are considered the gold standards for screening.

Here in Phuket, many hospitals such as Bangkok Hospital Phuket, Dibuk Hospital, and Siriroj Hospital offer advanced digital mammography and breast ultrasound services, with clear imaging that allows radiologists to identify even hard-to-detect cancers.

Diagnosis Challenges

While mammogram programs around the world have saved many lives, they are not entirely foolproof. Some types of breast cancer can develop rapidly between screenings or may not be visible through imaging. This highlights the need for continued advancement in breast cancer detection and personalised medical approaches. Genetic screening and tailored screening schedules may become key tools in identifying individuals with higher risks earlier.

Breast Cancer in Men

Although much rarer, men can also develop breast cancer. They are roughly 100 times less likely than women to be diagnosed, but because the disease is often seen as affecting only women, men tend to experience delays in detection and treatment. Raising awareness that breast cancer can affect anyone is crucial.

Be Proactive

The best way to fight breast cancer is through awareness and early detection. Book a screening appointment this month, whether it’s a mammogram, ultrasound, or a consultation and encourage the women (and men) in your life to do the same. Pinktober is the perfect time to take action, spread awareness, and wear pink with pride here in Phuket!