Breast cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Afghanistan and worldwide. It usually starts as a painless lump in the breast and is more common after age 40, though younger women can get it too. When found early it can often be cured, but in Afghanistan many women come for care late. Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel, and seeing a doctor quickly about any change, saves lives.
Symptoms
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, usually painless
- A change in the size or shape of a breast
- Dimpled skin, or skin that looks like orange peel
- A nipple that turns inward, or a rash around the nipple
- Blood or fluid from the nipple when not breastfeeding
- A sore on the breast that does not heal
Causes
- The exact cause is not known; risk increases with age
- Breast or ovarian cancer in close family members
- Never having children, or having a first child late
- Not breastfeeding
- Being overweight after menopause, and lack of exercise
- Long-term use of hormone treatment after menopause
Prevention
- Check your own breasts once a month and know what is normal for you
- Have a breast examination by a health worker, and a mammogram after 40 where available
- Breastfeed your children if you can
- Keep a healthy weight and be active
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
Treatment
- Tests: breast examination, ultrasound or mammogram, and a biopsy (a small tissue sample)
- Surgery to remove the lump or the breast
- Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone tablets, depending on the type and stage
- Treatment is planned by specialists in a cancer centre
- Support for pain, emotions and the family
- Do not rely on herbal or traditional treatments instead of medical care — delay lets the cancer spread
Common questions
Is every breast lump cancer?
No. Most breast lumps, especially in young women, are not cancer — many are cysts or harmless lumps called fibroadenomas. But every new lump must be checked by a doctor to be sure.
Can breast cancer be cured?
Yes, often. When it is found early, while it is still small and only in the breast, most women can be cured with treatment. The later it is found, the harder it is to treat.