The World Health Organization, providing information that more than 2.5 million cases of breast cancer are detected worldwide each year, emphasizes that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and is the first or second cause of female cancer deaths in all countries. The organization recommends that countries create national-level programs for the early diagnosis of breast cancer.

Explanation of Risk Factors by General Surgeon Prof. Dr. İsmail Hakkı Özerhan

General Surgeon Prof. Dr. İsmail Hakkı Özerhan, who works at Medicana International Ankara Hospital, explains the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that influence the development of breast cancer. Özerhan states that breast cancer is generally observed between the ages of 50 and 69, with age being a primary risk factor.

Genetic Predisposition and Family History: Important Risk Factors

Prof. Dr. İsmail Hakkı Özerhan expresses that having a family history of breast cancer is a factor that affects the risk. Particularly, having a breast cancer history in first-degree relatives, such as a mother or sister, can increase the risk. However, only 5% to 10% of diagnosed women have a known genetic predisposition. Therefore, evaluating family history is crucial in determining breast cancer risk.

BRCA Mutations and Other Risk Factors

Özerhan indicates that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are responsible for 3% to 8% of breast cancer cases and 15% to 20% of familial cases. Özerhan mentions that women with these mutations have a lifetime risk of 50-80% for breast cancer, and these mutations can also be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer in men and other types of cancer.

Early Diagnosis: The Primary Way to Prevent Breast Cancer

Prof. Dr. İsmail Hakkı Özerhan emphasizes that for reducing the risk of breast cancer, factors such as breastfeeding, exercise, and antiestrogen therapy are important. However, he highlights that early diagnosis is always the primary prevention. He adds that the benefits and harms of methods used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, such as mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance, should be considered.

Awareness and Early Diagnosis are Vital in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

The statements of General Surgeon Prof. Dr. İsmail Hakkı Özerhan underscore the vital importance of awareness and early diagnosis in the fight against breast cancer. Health authorities call for raising awareness in the community and conducting regular health check-ups on this matter.