Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Importance of Early Diagnosis

On the occasion of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the vital importance of early diagnosis has once again come to the agenda, with experts underlining that regular mammograms and screenings should be performed without waiting for any symptoms.

Screening Rates in Turkey

While approximately 27,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Turkey, it is stated that 1 out of every 6 patients is under the age of 40.

The proportion of women having breast cancer screenings in Turkey stands at 37 percent, remaining below the OECD average of 55 percent.

Mammography and Screening Trends

The decrease in the proportion of women over the age of forty who have never had a mammogram in their lives, dropping from 56.2 percent in 2016 to 42.4 percent in 2025, indicates an increase in participation in screenings.

Misconceptions Known as Facts

Specialist Dr. Derya Selamoğlu stated that 80-85 percent of breast cancers develop in individuals with no familial or genetic history, and that it can also be seen in people with no history of cancer in their families.

Approximately 80 percent of masses found in the breast are benign, and cancer can be detected even without a mass; furthermore, mammography uses low-dose radiation and does not spread cancer.

The Vital Role of Early Diagnosis

It has been noted that early diagnosis is one of the most important steps in combating breast cancer, and the survival rate in patients diagnosed early can rise up to 90 percent.

Regular Screening Schedule

It is recommended for women to become familiar with their own breasts starting from the age of twenty, and to have a clinical breast examination every two years between the ages of 20-39.

For women between the ages of 40 and 69, having a clinical breast examination once a year and a mammography every two years is of great importance.