1 in 8 women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime. This month of Pink October is there to raise awareness of screening and inform about the disease.

Yellow’s women wanted to contribute to raising awareness, in their own way.

They stripped down for the occasion.

We have all been touched, in one way or another, by breast cancer. And it’s not surprising when you consider that one in eight women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime. It is in fact the most common cancer in women.

In Luxembourg, the Robert Schuman Hospitals and their partners treat 150 patients with breast cancer. This is executed every year.

In order to raise awareness, the hospital network has set up an information platform containing all the information necessary for the prevention and monitoring of affected patients. The platform, called “acteur de ma santé”, provides information on screening and mammography, as well as patient testimonials.

Screening is no longer taboo

This year, the 28th edition of “Pink October” wants to highlight the importance of screening. A gesture that unfortunately remains far too taboo today. However, it is curable in 90% of cases. Early detection of breast cancer allows better treatment and increases the chances of recovery. Screening is based on mammography and/or breast ultrasound but also on breast self-examination.

Throughout life, especially from the age of 25, gynecological monitoring with palpation by a health professional is recommended once a year. Visual inspection of the breasts allows the doctor to look for an abnormality in the shape of the breast, a change in the colour of the skin or an abnormality in the nipple. Palpation of the breasts allows the doctor to assess the size, consistency, location and mobility of a displaced abnormality. It also allows the shape of the nipple to be examined and the lymph nodes to be palpated.

Mammography

Mammography is an X-ray of the breast that allows the radiologist to analyse the breast tissue.

This examination is usually carried out from the age of 40 and every two years.

Self-palpation

Breast self-palpation or breast self-examination is a method that allows women to get to know their breasts by regular observation and palpation. The purpose of breast self-examination is to identify any abnormalities that may indicate the presence of breast cancer.

Although there are no official recommendations, breast self-examination can be started from the age of 25.

In addition to the annual examination by the doctor and between two mammograms, this practice can help with early detection.

It is preferable to carry out this examination a few days after the end of menstruation because the breasts are then softer and less sensitive. In post-menopausal women, it should be done every month on a fixed day.

Certain signs may give cause for concern, such as a feeling of nodules or thickening of the breasts, eczema, shrinking of the skin, inflammation or a nodule.