Doctors warn: regular check-ups can save lives in the fight against breast cancer
Over 600 women in the Republic of Moldova have been diagnosed with breast cancer this year. This is the main form of malignant tumor diagnosed in women and represents approximately 16% of all oncological cases reported annually. Doctors point out that timely treatment and periodic check-ups can make the difference between life and death.
Maria learned that she had cancer during a routine check-up. The news was a real shock for her, but she didn’t give up. She found the strength to fight and courageously followed the recommended treatments – chemotherapy and surgery. Today, Maria feels better.
“I had twinges in my sleep for two days in a row and then the next day I thought I had to go to the doctor. After the biopsy, he told me it was stage II cancer. I had chemotherapy, four at the clinic and four at the hospital.”
Valentina discovered she had breast cancer late. Although she had noticed lumps in her armpit for some time, she put off seeing a doctor for almost two years. When she finally sought help, the diagnosis she received was a harsh one: stage III breast cancer.
"I had all my hopes on the doctors, because in the situation I find myself in, I am only to blame for wasting time. First, I was offered chemotherapy, after that, an intervention was needed. I have hope that what was there will not return".
According to doctors, breast cancer is being discovered in younger and younger patients.
"If until now we are talking 50 years ago, oncological pathology was more after the age of 50, now we have rejuvenation, there are even cases after 20 years. We explain this with harmful factors. Once a year we have to have a planned check-up with the doctor, not only the mammary glands, but also other organs", says mammologist Alexandru Cotruța.
In the Republic of Moldova, 1,214 new cases of breast cancer were registered last year, most of them among the 55-74 age group. Doctors reiterate that if breast cancer is diagnosed early and treated properly, the survival rate reaches 99%.
