October — Breast Cancer Awareness Month
An international month dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of prevention and early detection.
Early diagnosis saves lives
October is marked worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of prevention and early detection.
When detected in time, breast cancer is curable in more than 90% of cases. In Serbia, according to the Institute of Public Health “Dr Milan Jovanović Batut”, nearly 4,500 women are diagnosed every year, and around 1,650 lose their battle with the disease.
Key aspects of the fight against breast cancer
Early detection
Regular check-ups and self-examinations make it possible to detect changes before symptoms appear.
Risk factors
The incidence increases with age and is more common after the age of 40. Regular check-ups are also recommended for younger women.
Symptoms to watch for
Lumps, thickening, changes in the shape or size of the breast, as well as changes to the skin or nipple.
Screening programme
Organised mammography screening in Serbia is intended for women aged 50 to 69 and is carried out every two years.
Campaign symbol
The recognisable pink ribbon is worn in support of patients and to raise awareness of the importance of prevention.
Three pillars
Early screening, timely diagnosis and adequate treatment.
Myths about breast cancer
Myth 1: Breast cancer is practically incurable.
Fact: Detected at an early stage, breast cancer is curable in 94% of cases.
Myth 2: Young women cannot get breast cancer.
Fact: The risk of breast cancer does rise after the age of 45, but it also occurs earlier.
Myth 3: The smaller the breasts, the lower the risk of breast cancer.
Fact: Breast size does not affect the risk of breast cancer.
Myth 4: Tight bras cause breast cancer.
Fact: A poorly fitting bra may slightly irritate the skin, but that is all.
Symptoms, prevention and key facts
Get to know your breasts
Regular self-examination helps you notice changes in time. If you notice any change, see a doctor — early diagnosis saves lives.
Lymphedema after breast surgery
After breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy, lymphedema of the arm may develop. Lymphedema cannot be cured, but with adequate treatment it can be kept fully under control — with manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy and complex decongestive therapy (CDT).
Questions about lymphedema after breast surgery?
At the examination we assess your condition together and build a therapy plan tailored just for you.
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