Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the cells of the breast tissue. Although it is much more common in women, it is possible for it to affect men
Characterized by disorganized cell growth, causing tumors that can spread to different parts of the body (metastasis).
It arises when damage occurs to the genetic material, that is, to the cell's DNA, leading to the appearance of mutations.

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How do you get breast cancer?

There is no specific cause for this disease, experts point out some risk factors that can lead to the development of this type of cancer. The main ones are:
- Mulheres que já tiveram cancro da mama;
- Women over 50 years old
- Family history (relatives who have already had the disease);
- Not having children or having children after the age of 35;
- Women who menstruate for the first time before the age of 12
- Women who have stopped menstruating after the age of 50
- Women who have had other breast diseases

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

The most common symptoms are:
- The appearance of a lump or swelling in one of the breasts or under one of the arms.
- Pain or an abnormal enlargement of one of the breasts - Pain or change in position of the nipple, which may turn inward
- Exit of an abnormal liquid or with a little blood through the nipple
- Skin irritation or the appearance of irregularities in the skin, such as dimples or puckering, or that make the skin resemble the peel of an orange;

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How to diagnose breast cancer?

Self-examination

1. In front of a mirror

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    Stand in front of the mirror with your arms at your sides. Look at the breasts and look for swelling, depressions, abnormal shapes, a marked difference in color in the skin of the breasts or any other changes.

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    Repeat the procedure with your arms elevated or behind your head

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    With your hands on your hips and your breasts stretched forward, look for swelling, large differences between one breast and the other, or other changes.

2. Lying down

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    Lie on your back in a comfortable position and place a pillow under your left shoulder.
    Gently, with the thumb and index finger of your right hand, press the nipple and see if any secretion comes out.
    With the tips of your index, middle and ring fingers press firmly, delicately and strongly, in larger and smaller circular movements, starting from the outside of the breast towards the nipple. After feeling the left breast, do the same for the right breast

3. In the shower

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    During the bath, feel the breasts in the same way you felt them when lying down. Feel for lumps, swelling, pain or other changes. If your hands are soapy it will be easier to feel because your hand glides better

When can we do the self-exam?

- Every month
- Preferably 3 days after the menstrual period
- If you no longer have your period, take the exam on the first day of each month

I have breast cancer. And now?

Go immediately to the nearest health center