Given the fact that the breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Iran and worldwide and because of its role as the second main cause of cancer related death toll among women, the World Health Organization has announced the October as the month of public awareness and the fight against breast cancer in the world. It worth to know that despite the very bad reputation of breast cancer, it is actually very treatable in its beginning stages. But the lack of common knowledge about early symptoms of this cancer, it can decrease the quality life of many women who mostly are the emotional supports to their families, and by progressing of the cancer the essence of lives of many family members can be disturbed. Supporting this universal symbolic movement, a nationwide campaign against breast cancer, breast clinics were raised by activists in the health sectors. All women must become aware about some basic self-examinations and also symptoms of developing an early breast cancer. I ask all citizens, authorities and even clergymen to become active in spreading awareness about breast cancer and help all women to live longer and healthier.

Nobody is safe from developing breast cancer. More than a million women worldwide and more than ten thousand women in Iran develop breast cancer each year. Women of any age and ethnicity might develop breast cancer.

What are the main causes?

Family history

Pregnancy after the age of 35

Infertility

Early puberty

Late menopause

Obesity after menopause

Consuming fatty foods

Radiation

Some benign breast diseases

It is noticeable that these factors can just increase the risk of developing breast cancer not necessarily causing it.

What are the symptoms?

Any tumor or lump in breasts

Secretion from nipples

Change in the color of the skin around breasts

Any change in the shape of the nipples

Any change in the size of the breasts

Any change in the size of lymphatic glands around armpits

Three major ways of diagnosis:

Self-examination

Examination by a doctor

Mammography

Examination by a doctor is recommended for all women over the age of 20 every 6-12 months.

Mammography is also recommended for women over the age of 35-39 annually. In some western countries this procedures might begin later at the age of 40-49 every other year. Consult your doctor in this regard.