An oncologist told women in Nizhny Novgorod how to reduce their risk of breast cancer.

      October 13, 2025 10:36 Society

      Breast cancer remains the most common oncological disease among women in Russia. According to statistics, one in eight women in the country may face it during her lifetime. Since 2020, this diagnosis has ranked first among all oncological pathologies. The disease can develop even at a young age, but timely diagnosis helps preserve health and physical appearance. This was reported by oncologist-mammologist and lymphologist Emma Arevshatyan of the 6th Oncology Department for Breast Tumors at the Institute of Clinical Oncology.

      According to the specialist, breast cancer remains one of the most frequently encountered forms of cancer in developed countries. The highest incidence is recorded in the United States, the countries of Northern Europe, and in Russia. More than 70,000 new cases are detected in our country each year, over 2,000 of them in the Nizhny Novgorod region. Over the past decade, the incidence rate has increased by approximately 30 percent.

      Arevshatyan notes that women with an incomplete reproductive history are at risk, as are those who smoke and drink excessively. Modern treatment approaches allow for operations to be performed as conservatively as possible, preserving patients' quality of life. If the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, the likelihood of successful cure exceeds 90 percent.

      The doctor attaches particular importance to the hereditary factor. According to her, genetic predisposition significantly increases the risk of developing the disease. If close relatives—mother, sister, or grandmother—have had breast or ovarian cancer, a woman should undergo early screening, consult a geneticist if necessary, and be tested for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Their detection helps form an individualized program of prevention and surveillance.

      At the same time, the specialist emphasizes that even with a hereditary tendency, regular preventive check-ups remain the main means of protection. Doctors often encounter advanced forms of the disease when patients ignore routine screenings or postpone visiting a doctor after noticing alarming symptoms. Women with benign breast lesions also require continuous monitoring — they are often prescribed medications that reduce the risk of malignant transformation.

      As Arevshatyan explained, breast examinations are recommended to begin at age 18 after consulting a doctor. Until age 39, the primary diagnostic method is ultrasound — a safe and informative way to monitor changes. From age 40, mammography remains the "gold standard."

      Regular prevention remains the most reliable way to maintain health. The earlier the disease is detected, the higher the chance of complete recovery.

      Residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region can have a mammogram free of charge at the Institute of Clinical Oncology under the compulsory medical insurance policy (OMS).

      It was previously reported that more than 2,000 new cases of breast cancer are detected annually in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed about the main events, exclusive materials, and timely information.

      Copyright © 1999–2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required. This resource may contain 18+ materials.