October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on a disease that impacts millions of lives across the globe. Did you know that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is now the most common cancer worldwide, accounting for 12% of all new annual cancer cases. In 2020 alone, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths globally.

While these numbers are alarming, early detection and advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival rates. In fact, the five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer (when detected early) is nearly 99% according to the American Cancer Society. This highlights the critical importance of regular screenings, awareness, and education.
Key Risk Factors and Early Detection
Though the exact cause of breast cancer is still unknown, research has identified several risk factors such as age, family history, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), and lifestyle factors. However, early detection through regular mammograms, self-exams, and timely medical consultations can be lifesaving. Studies show that early-stage breast cancer patients have a 93% higher chance of survival than those diagnosed at later stages.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
One of the most important steps women can take toward early detection is learning how to perform regular breast self-examinations (BSE). Here's a simple guide to conducting a monthly self-exam:
In Front of a Mirror:
Stand with your shoulders straight and arms on your hips. Look for any visible changes in breast size, shape, or color. Be mindful of swelling, dimpling, or changes in the nipple.
Raise Your Arms:
Now, raise your arms and check for the same visual changes. Look for any signs of fluid (such as watery, milky, or yellow discharge) from the nipples.
Lying Down:
Lie down and use your right hand to feel your left breast and your left hand for your right breast. Keep your fingers flat and together, and use a firm, smooth touch in a circular motion. Begin at the outer edge and move toward the center of the breast, covering the entire area.
Standing or Sitting:
Lastly, you can perform the same circular motions while standing or sitting, often easiest in the shower when the skin is wet and slippery.
By doing this once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends, you can become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts and notice any unusual changes early.
Cutting-Edge Treatments in Breast Cancer
The landscape of breast cancer treatment has evolved remarkably over the years. Traditional methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are now complemented by innovative approaches like hormone therapy, targeted therapies (e.g., HER2 inhibitors), and immunotherapy. These treatments offer more personalized care, helping patients achieve better outcomes with fewer side effects. If you're looking for more information or support on how these treatments could help you or a loved one, we invite you to explore our Oncological Care page.
Turkey: A Global Leader in Breast Cancer Treatment
Turkey has become a global hub for advanced cancer treatment, particularly in breast cancer care. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and JCI-accredited hospitals, Turkey provides world-class oncology services at a fraction of the cost seen in North America. The country’s experienced oncologists utilize the latest diagnostic tools and treatment modalities, including robotic surgery, proton therapy, and genetic profiling, to tailor personalized treatment plans for each patient.
If you or a loved one is facing a breast cancer diagnosis, know that you are not alone. At Maple Med Global, we are here to support you every step of the way. With expert teams in both Canada and Turkey, we ensure that you receive comprehensive care tailored to your needs. You can reach out to us at any time for more information on treatment options and how we can assist you in navigating this difficult journey.
Contact us today at info@maplemedglobal.ca or +1 (437) 232-6563 to learn more about how we can help you access world-class breast cancer treatment in Turkey. Together, we stand by you in the fight against breast cancer.
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