On World Breast Cancer Day, IMSS-Bienestar reaffirmed its commitment to prevention and primary health care by implementing actions aimed at raising awareness about the importance of timely diagnosis in 11,000 health centers located in 23 federal states. These actions include courses, workshops, and informational talks on self-examination and healthy lifestyles.
In case a mass or tumor is detected, patients are referred to specialized units where biopsies are performed to determine the stage of cancer and the appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis allows for less invasive treatments ranging from biological therapies to chemotherapy.
A 61-year-old patient diagnosed with breast cancer at the Campeche State Oncology Center has received support from specialists and nursing staff during her treatment. In Mexico, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women and a common disease worldwide.
IMSS-Bienestar offers free services such as initial clinical examination and mammograms at its health centers. The head of the Breast Cancer Department, Luis Daniel Peralta Pérez, emphasized the importance of timely and quality detection, providing training to all medical and nursing staff.
The expert highlighted three methods for timely detection to prevent the development of breast cancer: monthly breast self-examination starting at age 20, annual clinical breast examination from age 25, and mammograms every two years for those aged 40 to 69. These are conducted free of charge at health units.
Breast self-examination can be done in front of a mirror to detect changes in the skin, indentations, orange peel skin, presence of lumps, nipple discharge, and palpation of the axillary region. Currently, the mentioned patient is undergoing chemotherapy treatment and has responded positively to it.