From nutrition to breast cancer initiatives: pink is a warm color in October

An increase in the frequency of diagnoses, fortunately accompanied by a reduction in mortality thanks to a wider diffusion of early diagnosis, which has allowed an increase in the number of tumors identified in the early stages of the disease, when treatment is more likely to be effective and less invasive.

Screening programs for the early diagnosis of breast cancer in Italy actively invite women aged 50 to 69 to participate, following established deadlines and according to the procedures established by the regional program (typically, a letter of invitation is received from the local health authority to agree on the procedures and date of the test).

The exam consists of a mammogram every two years, an effective tool for early breast cancer detection, as it allows for the identification of nodules, even small ones that are not perceptible to the touch. Ultrasound, on the other hand, according to the AIRC website, may be useful only in specific cases, especially in younger women or to further investigate the nature of a nodule, and is not generally recommended as a screening test in place of or in addition to mammography.

In any case, as reported on the ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) portal, approximately 5% of breast cancers and up to 25% of familial forms are caused by a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. A woman carrying a BRCA1 mutation has a 65-95% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, and it is believed that over 90% of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers are due to a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.

Women who test positive for the BRCA1/2 mutation will be carefully monitored under medical guidance and encouraged to take the necessary measures to reduce their risk of developing cancer. Women who are found to carry a BRCA mutation and choose not to undergo risk-reducing surgery will be subject to a personalized clinical and instrumental surveillance program. This program consists of a physical exam every 6-12 months starting at age 25 (or 10 years before the age of onset of cancer in the youngest relative), a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan every 12 months, and a mammogram every 12 months starting at age 30.

For everyone, living the healthiest lifestyle possible is always the best course of action. This begins with eating right. But are there any foods that can help prevent cancer on their own? According to AIRC, no single food can help prevent cancer. The results of major studies show that the relationship between diet and cancer is complex and recommend following a varied and balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes, while also taking into account other behaviors that impact disease risk, such as lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and especially smoking.

Raising awareness of the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can help prevent breast cancer, as well as the importance of regular early screening, is the goal of Breast Health Day, held on October 15th. This day is designated by the European coalition Europa Donna and is celebrated annually in each of the 47 member countries of the Association for Social Promotion. All activities and materials related to this day are updated on the official Breast Health Day website.

While You Make Your Move is a communications campaign, sponsored by Pubblicità Progresso, through which Europa Donna Italia addresses women to encourage greater awareness and a proactive attitude on issues of breast cancer prevention and treatment.