In our country, breast cancer ranks second in frequency and mortality, according to the 2018 Globocan reports. This disease claims around 1,800 lives annually, a figure that could be reduced if 60% of cases were not diagnosed in advanced stages.

Dr. Mauricio León, an oncologist surgeon at Clinica Ricardo Palma, explains that this disease, like many early cancers, is silent and more frequent in young women less than 40 years of age. However, there are measures that can help prevent it, such as:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly and eating a diet rich in fish, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Eliminate the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and junk food.
• Avoid excess weight, doing physical activities, at least 30 minutes a day
• Perform frequent breast self-examinations, from the first menstruation
• Visit the mastology specialist at least once a year
• Have a mammogram annually starting at age 40. However, if you have a family history, it is important to complement it with a breast ultrasound from the age of 35
• Also, genetic tests can be done to look for known mutations in genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2. This would help predict who could have breast or ovarian cancer in the future, in order to take the appropriate and timely measures so that the disease does not develop.

Remember the importance of attending a medical check-up in a timely manner and promoting a culture of prevention. Together we can beat Breast Cancer!

Dr. Mauricio León
Oncologist surgeon at Clínica Ricardo Palma