Breast cancer outcome and survival depends on the stage of the disease at the time of the diagnosis. Therefore, with early diagnosis, breast cancer can be cured. The most effective way to diagnose breast cancer early is regular breast screening. Breast cancer does not show its symptoms for months, up to an year. With most cases of breast cancer in Pakistan diagnosed between the ages of 40-50 year, it is recommended for all women to start regular breast screening from the age of 40.
Breast screening is established in the developed countries for the more than 30 years now. Because of this, their breast cancer survival is significantly better. Breast screening involves a mammogram which in simple words is x-ray of breast. Every woman is advised to have a mammogram every year from the age of 40. Women with family history of breast cancer may need to start screening at an early age.
