Breast cancer is not only a concern for older women or for families with a history of the disease. That was the message from two health professionals at the Ghana Canada Medical Center, Dr. Jocelyn Dodoo and midwife Peace Elewosi Gagbe, during a Pink October conversation on Sunny 88.7 FM.
Both stressed that early detection and education matter for everyone, whatever their age or family background.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast tissue start to behave abnormally, growing and multiplying beyond their normal limits. It is far more common in women, but men can develop it too, which is why the experts said awareness is important for everyone.
Warning signs to look out for
Early detection often starts with noticing a change in the breast. The experts said any of the following should be checked by a health professional:
- A change in the shape or size of the breast
- A lump or mass that can be felt
- Changes in the texture or appearance of the skin
- Discharge from the nipple, or a change in the colour of the nipple
Clearing up the myths
One common belief is that breast cancer only affects older women or people whose relatives have had it. Women over 40 do face a higher risk, but the experts were clear that the disease does not discriminate by age.
Family history and inherited genes do raise a person's risk, sometimes considerably. Yet many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of it at all. Other risk factors the experts mentioned include drinking alcohol, smoking and the use of certain hormonal therapies.
Don't panic, but don't wait
Not every lump or change means cancer. Many breast conditions are benign, meaning non-cancerous, and some changes are simply part of how the body normally works.
Even so, the experts' advice was simple: if a change persists or something worries you, see a health professional without delay. Regular screening is one of the most practical steps anyone can take, because finding cancer early makes timely treatment possible and saves lives.