Breast cancer: from concern to a care plan

Arrange assessment for a new lump, armpit swelling, nipple inversion or discharge, or skin dimpling or redness. Lack of pain is not reassurance. Not every lump is cancer; breast changes in men also need assessment.

Türkiye’s population programme includes mammography every two years for women aged 40–69. Symptoms should not wait for that age or the next screening. Family history or special risks require an individual plan, not the same genetic test for everyone with an affected relative.

Assessment includes examination, suitable imaging and biopsy—a tissue sample—when needed. Pathology identifies type, while markers such as hormone receptors and HER2 help guide treatment. Stage is not simply tumour size in centimetres; spread and biological features matter. PET-CT is not needed for everyone.

DCIS means abnormal cells confined to milk ducts and may need treatment because of progression risk; “stage 0” does not mean no procedure is needed. LCIS is an abnormal lobular cell change associated with increased future cancer risk in either breast. Discuss the exact subtype and follow-up plan.

The sequence of surgery, radiotherapy and medicines varies; medicines may come before surgery. Not everyone needs every method. Discuss expected benefit, side effects, fertility and daily life, and separately confirm local availability at Nev.

With a cancer history, report new or worsening back pain promptly. New leg weakness, walking difficulty or bladder/bowel control changes require emergency assessment; call 112 and mention the cancer history. Do not wait for a routine appointment.