Guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening
By Assoc. Prof. Youwanush Kongdan, M.D.
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among women worldwide. Breast cancer screening is a crucial method for early detection, which can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce mortality rates. This article presents breast cancer screening guidelines based on international standards and the Thai Breast Disease Association, including recommendations from Namarak Hospital.
International Standards for Breast Cancer Screening
American Cancer Society (ACS):
o Ages 40-44: Consider annual mammogram screening
o Ages 45-54: Recommend annual mammogram screening
o Ages 55+: Option for annual or biennial mammogram screening, based on individual health status and risk factors
United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF):
o Ages 50-74: Recommend biennial mammogram screening
o Ages 40-49: Consult physician regarding mammogram initiation, considering personal risk factors
European Guidelines (European Commission Initiative on Breast Cancer - ECIBC):
o Ages 50-69: Recommend biennial mammogram screening
o Ages 70-74: Consider continued screening based on general health status and personal risk factors
World Health Organization (WHO):
o Recommend biennial mammogram screening for women ages 50-69
Thai Breast Disease Association Guidelines
Ages 20-39:
o Monthly breast self-examination (BSE), 7-10 days after menstruation
o Clinical breast examination (CBE) every 3 years
Ages 40 and above:
o Monthly breast self-examination
o Annual clinical breast examination
o Annual mammogram, particularly for high-risk individuals
High-risk women:
o Additional screening considerations including supplementary mammograms, MRI, or genetic testing
Namarak Hospital Screening Guidelines
Given that Thai women tend to develop breast cancer approximately 10 years earlier than Western populations (average onset age 40) and have denser breast tissue, Namarak Hospital recommends:
1. Monthly breast self-examination starting from menstruation age, 3-10 days after menstruation begins
2. Ages 20-40: Clinical breast examination every 2-3 years
3. Ages 35-40: Initial baseline mammogram and ultrasound
4. Ages 40-75: Mammogram and ultrasound every 1-2 years; if biennial, consider ultrasound alone in alternate years
Namarak Hospital emphasizes convenient, safe screening using advanced technology, supported by specialized breast radiologists and surgeons, complemented by AI-assisted interpretation.
1. Mammography: Using 3D mammography technology and AI to help doctors read the results, increasing the accuracy of diagnosis.
2. Ultrasound: Using high-resolution ultrasound and automatic ultrasound to help doctors detect abnormalities, especially in cases where the mammogram results are unclear or in people with thick breast tissue.
3. MRI: Used only in high-risk groups, such as those with the BRCA gene or those who have had breast augmentation injections, and referred to an MRI center with expertise.
4. Consultation and care: By a breast surgery specialist, along with a team of doctors and nurses who provide close care, so that service recipients understand the examination process and receive the best care.
Namarak Hospital is committed to providing high-quality breast cancer screening services, taking into account the appropriateness for the Thai population and using modern technology to increase the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Breast cancer screening is an important factor that can help reduce the mortality rate from breast cancer. Following the standard screening guidelines will allow women to receive appropriate and timely screening, which increases the chances of treatment and complete cure from breast cancer.
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