Breast Cancer in Women

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women, both in terms of incidence and mortality. Statistics show that it may affect one in ten women during their lifetime. While the exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, stress, obesity, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and genetic factors are known to contribute.

Regular mammography screenings, along with self-examinations, play a crucial role in early detection, thereby improving survival rates. Breast cancer detected early is easier and more successfully treated.

Mammography and Tomosynthesis

Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breasts that allows early detection of breast tumors using a low radiation dose. For optimal image quality and reduced radiation exposure, proper compression of the breasts is necessary.

In addition to conventional mammography, breast tomosynthesis is available—and recommended for many patient groups—which provides a three-dimensional X-ray view of the breasts. Tomosynthesis can detect 29–41% more breast cancers than traditional mammography, while the additional radiation exposure is minimal. This method is particularly beneficial for women with dense, glandular breast tissue.

At Mind Clinic, we use one of GE Medical Systems’ most advanced mammography devices, the Senographe Pristina, for our patients. Its advanced software ensures that the radiation dose difference between tomosynthesis and conventional mammography is minimal.

Who is Recommended for Screening?

The most effective and scientifically validated method for breast examination is mammography. For asymptomatic women, routine screening is recommended from the age of 40. Patients should bring any previous test results and imaging documentation to the appointment.

The 3D tomosynthesis images are independently evaluated by two breast imaging specialists with official licensing. The report is provided within 10 working days. If both evaluations are negative, the report can be downloaded from the national electronic health system (EESZT). If the results are inconclusive, further examinations may be recommended—such as additional imaging, breast ultrasound, or, if necessary, cytology or biopsy. Appointments for these tests are scheduled promptly in consultation with the patient. Follow-up tests are meant to confirm or rule out breast cancer, and do not necessarily indicate that cancer is present. Previously obtained mammography images may also be requested for comparison if they were not brought to the screening.

Comprehensive Breast Diagnostic Examination

After 3D tomosynthesis imaging, the patient meets with a radiologist. The doctor performs a physical breast examination followed by ultrasound imaging. If needed, additional imaging is ordered, and, in consultation with the patient, cytological or histological sampling is performed. The doctor then answers questions and provides guidance on further steps.

Who is Recommended for a Comprehensive Examination?

• Patients with breast complaints
• Individuals in higher-risk groups
• Those with first-degree relatives affected by breast or prostate cancer
• Patients previously diagnosed with malignant breast tumors
• Follow-up of known benign breast lesions
• Patients undergoing fertility-related hormone treatments
• Patients on hormone replacement therapy (e.g., postmenopausal)
• Individuals with known genetic mutations (BRCA 1–2 carriers from age 30, TP53 mutation from age 20)

A comprehensive examination is strongly recommended because the patient receives immediate results, and any necessary tests (cytology, histology) can be performed promptly at our clinic to establish a definitive diagnosis.

Breast Ultrasound

• For women under 30, ultrasound can be used as a standalone method, though mammography may also be required if malignancy is suspected.
• Between ages 30–35, the radiologist decides whether mammography should accompany ultrasound.
• Over 35, ultrasound alone is not suitable for primary breast cancer diagnosis and is only used to supplement mammography if no mammogram has been performed in the past year.

Important: Ultrasound alone is not suitable for primary diagnosis or screening of breast cancer. It is only useful for follow-up of clearly identifiable lesions and does not replace regular mammography.

Breast Examination in Men

The diagnostic algorithm for men with breast complaints follows the same steps as for women.