Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women¹, with more than 2.2 million new cases reported each year worldwide.² 

It accounts for 1 in 4 annual cancer cases globally.¹ Breast cancer is the leading cause of death by cancer in women.²  

Although more frequent after age 50, breast cancer can also occur in younger patients.¹ An estimated 20% of breast cancer cases in Europe occur in women when they are younger than 50 years old.¹ Also, even though most breast cancer cases occur in women, it can also occur in men (around 1% of cases).³ 

Importance of early detection 

Early detection is key. Detecting cancer at an early stage significantly improves the prospects for treatment success. Being aware of your breasts' usual appearance and feel is important, and you should immediately inform your healthcare provider of any alterations.

The most common symptoms of breast cancer are changes in the breasts, the lump in the breast being the most common, but not the only one.³ 

The following signs that should alert women and men:³ 

• A lump in the breast 
• Change in the size or shape of the breast 
• Dimpling of the skin or thickening in the breast tissue 
• An inverted nipple 
• Rash on the nipple 
• Discharge from the nipple 
• Swelling or a lump in the armpit 
• Pain or discomfort in the breast that doesn’t go away 
• Skin redness 
• Skin thickening 

In most cases, breast cancer is asymptomatic. Getting regular screening tests is the most reliable way to detect breast cancer early. Check with your doctor if you are eligible and get information about screening frequency. ^4,5

 

 

How to do self-examination?⁴ 

1. Raise the arm on the side of the breast to be examined and use the pads of three middle fingers of the opposite arm. Move your fingers in small circular and regular movement to cover the entire breast. 
2. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side - from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage. 
3. For each small circle, change the amount of pressure, so you can feel all the different levels of your breast tissue. 
4. Squeeze your nipples to check for discharge. Look also for discharge in your bra or clothing. 
5. Switch to the other breast. 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you’ve noticed any new and unusual breast change. 

Our Breast Journey campaign 

Pierre Fabre Laboratoires continues its commitment to face breast cancer. This year, we forge ahead with our initiative dubbed 'Our Breast Journey'.

This journey involves everyone, beginning with the crucial step of screening. Recognize the signs and symptoms previously mentioned and ensure regular screenings when necessary. Encourage your loved ones to stay vigilant for early detection of any changes.

Once breast cancer is identified and diagnosed, each individual's path is distinct. Yet, there are four typical stages: screening, detection & diagnosis; treatment, and ongoing care. Preserving a good quality of life is essential for patients at every stage of breast cancer.⁶

This journey can be extensive and fraught with challenges, necessitating support at each phase. Breast cancer's impact extends beyond the individual suffering from it. As a family member or friend, your role is significant in their life. You can provide practical help with everyday activities as well as emotional support.⁷ 

Throughout the month of October, the Pierre Fabre laboratories want to raise awareness about breast cancer and share more information about this disease, to offer better support to those affected by it and trying to improve their quality of life.  

 

 

Join us and show your support to the #OurBreastJourney movement 

During this Breast Awareness Month, we want to create a movement around the patient’s journey alongside his friends and family, reflecting feelings through key messages that are benevolent and convey good vibes. 

Get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month!  

Show your support to the #OurBreastJourney movement this October by liking, sharing and commenting on our posts. 

To know more about breast cancer 

If you want to know more about breast cancer, you may visit the following websites: 

• European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) – Patient Guide for Breast Cancer: https://www.esmo.org/for-patients/patient-guides/breast-cancer  

• Europa Donna – Breast cancer facts: https://www.europadonna.org/breast-cancer/ 

• American Cancer Society – Breast cancer: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer.html 

• ASCO’s patient information website:  https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/breast-cancer 

 ​​​​​​

References:

1.  EU-27 data. Europa Donna. https://www.europadonna.org/breast-cancer/ . Accessed August 2024.
2. Global Cancer Observatory - Globocan 2020. Available at: https://gco.iarc.fr/ . Accessed August 2024. 
3. European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO). ESMO Patient Guide Series – Breast cancer. 2018. Lugano, Switzerland. 
4. Adapted from International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - World Health Organization. Breast cancer - breast self-examination. Available at: https://screening.iarc.fr/breastselfexamination.php . Accessed August 2024 
5. American Cancer Society recommendation for the early detection of breast cancer. Available on: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html . Accessed August 2024.
6. American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Cancer-Net. Breast Cancer: Follow-up Care and Monitoring. Available on:  https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/breast-cancer/follow-care-and-monitoring . Accessed August 2024.
7. National Healthcare system (NHS). Living with - breast cancer in women. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/living-with/ . Accessed August 2024. 

HQ-08-24-2400024