Breast cancer risks: early detection and a healthy lifestyle in focus

Breast cancer risks: early detection and a healthy lifestyle in focus

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in Germany. More than 70,000 new cases are diagnosed every year. Although the chances of cure are good if detected early, the disease kills more than 17,000 women each year. Therefore, raising awareness of risk factors and warning signs is crucial to protect women's health.

The importance of a healthy lifestyle

A health-conscious lifestyle can significantly help reduce the risk of breast cancer. According to the German Cancer Society, a quarter of diseases could be avoided through preventative measures. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. A healthy lifestyle not only plays a role in prevention, but can also improve general well-being and quality of life.

Early detection and risk checks

Regular early detection examinations are essential to detect changes at an early stage. A risk check to identify health threats is a valuable tool for women. This includes assessing family history, lifestyle and hormonal influences. If at least two factors from a predefined checklist are confirmed, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Take warning signals seriously

Some physical changes should alarm women:

• Veränderungen in der Brust: Eine Änderung in Größe oder Form kann auf gesundheitliche Probleme hinweisen.
• Knoten oder Verhärtungen: Diese sind ernstzunehmende Symptome.
• Hautveränderungen: Rötungen oder Dellen an der Brust können Warnzeichen sein.
• Austritt von Flüssigkeit: Flüssigkeit aus der Brustwarze kann auf eine Erkrankung hindeuten.
• Schwellungen in der Achselhöhle: Diese sind nicht nur auf Infektionen zurückzuführen, sondern können auch auf Metastasen hinweisen.
• Schmerzen in der Brust: Anhaltende Schmerzen sollten immer medizinisch abgeklärt werden.

Identify risk factors

The exact causes of breast cancer are complex. The main risk factors include genetic predispositions, obesity and an inactive lifestyle. Regular screening and dealing with possible risk factors are important in order to be able to act preventively. Through education and prevention strategies, the risk of breast cancer can be reduced.

The role of society

The treatment and prevention of breast cancer is not only an individual responsibility, but also requires social commitment. Awareness campaigns that particularly appeal to younger women can help bring the topic of breast cancer out of the taboo zone. Women should be encouraged to talk about their health and get regular checkups.

Conclusion: Together against breast cancer

Early detection and a health-conscious lifestyle are essential in the fight against breast cancer. Close collaboration between medical professionals, cancer societies and the population is necessary to increase awareness of breast cancer prevention. It is the community's responsibility to support and encourage women to take the necessary steps to maintain their health.