October Pink: Taking care of the breast is taking care of us

“Tin October, we put on the rose to remember one of the causes that should mobilize us most as a society: breast cancer. But for me, Rosa October is much more than an awareness campaign. It is an opportunity to talk about women's health, prevention, early diagnosis and, above all, the importance of not postponing care for ourselves.

In the daily rush, between work life, children, family and so many other responsibilities, women often leave themselves to last place. It postpones an appointment, does not mark the mammography that should have already made or devalues a change because it has no time to worry about one more thing. And it is precisely here that we need to change mindsets.

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in women. In Portugal, thousands of new cases are diagnosed every year. Nevertheless, there is a message that I consider it essential to convey: when diagnosed at an early stage, breast cancer has, in many cases, a very favourable prognosis. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference in treatment options, recovery and quality of life.

Knowing our body is the first step

Mammography remains one of the most important instruments in the early detection of breast cancer, allowing identification of changes even before being palpable. The screening programme organised in Portugal covers women aged 45 to 74, according to the eligibility criteria defined. However, follow-up should be individualized: age, family history, clinical history and possible existence of risk factors may justify a different surveillance.

There is also something I want to reinforce: a recent mammography without changes does not mean that we should ignore new symptoms. A nodule in the breast or armpit, skin changes, nipple retraction or spontaneous secretion, especially if you have blood, should motivate medical evaluation. We shouldn't wait for the next screening if we feel something has changed.

Self-observation is equally important, not as a substitute for medical examinations, but as a means of getting to know our bodies better and recognizing changes that are not usual. We don't need to live on permanent alert. We need to be informed and to know when to seek help.

Preventing is also caring for the lifestyle

Although not all cases of breast cancer can be prevented, there are habits that contribute to reducing the risk of various diseases, including some types of cancer. Maintaining a balanced diet, practicing physical activity regularly, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption and trying to maintain a healthy weight are important measures. In women with a relevant family history, a specific genetic risk assessment, always with medical guidance, may also make sense.

And we must not forget the emotional dimension of this disease. Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer is a deeply difficult time that goes beyond the physical dimension. The impact on self-esteem, body image, sexuality and family life deserves attention. Treatment should not only look at the disease, but also at the woman who exists beyond it. Psychological support, rehabilitation and multidisciplinary follow-up can be fundamental during and after treatment.

Throughout my clinical practice, I believe increasingly that taking care of women's health means looking at women as a whole. Informing, preventing, diagnosing in good time and following with empathy are inseparable parts of this commitment.

This October, Rosa, I leave a simple invitation: do not postpone your health. Check that appointment, confirm that you have the screening updated and ask your doctor if you have any questions or any signs that concern you.

Because caring for yourself is not selfish, nor should it be for later. And because the October rose must remain present in our choices during the other eleven months of the year.

Prevention begins with information. Early diagnosis can change a life. And caring for us must always be a priority.”