There are differences in the types of cancer that affect men and women. For example, breast cancer is more common in women. Breast cancer is difficult to detect and is known as the most elusive killer.
In China, it is the leading cancer among women. Women who experience early or late menstruation, have not given birth, give birth after the age of 35, have atypical hyperplasia, or have breast ducts should pay attention to breast cancer.
Individuals with a family history of the disease should undergo regular check-ups, ideally annually.
Additionally, women who are obese, have a history of excessive hormone use, engage in unhealthy eating habits, or use alcohol excessively should also be vigilant for breast cancer. Women should learn to examine their own breasts and perform monthly self-exams.
Those at high risk should also undergo breast ultrasound in addition to regular check-ups to screen for breast cancer. Prompt follow-up is essential to avoid missed diagnoses.
Symptoms of breast cancer include painless lumps, skin dimpling, nipple retraction, and elevated breasts. If nipple discharge is yellow, brown, or bloody, prompt medical examination is necessary.
Another common cancer in women is lung cancer, which has a high incidence rate and is the leading cause of death in China. Lung cancer is often diagnosed in the advanced stages, which leads to poor prognosis and low five-year survival rates. Although lung cancer is more common in men, there are also a significant number of cases in women, with a rising incidence rate.
Women who are smokers or exposed to secondhand smoke, exposed to cooking oil fumes, experience chronic stress, are over 55 years old, or have a family history of tumors should be mindful of preventing lung cancer.
Women over 35 years old should undergo an annual low-dose spiral CT scan, especially those exposed to secondhand smoke or working in heavily polluted environments.
Cervical cancer is another common cancer among women. It poses a significant threat to women's health. Women over the age of 20 should undergo annual TCT screening.
HPV infection is a major cause of cervical cancer.
Women should adopt healthy lifestyles and eating habits, focusing on a high-protein diet and avoiding cold, greasy, and spicy foods. Regular exercise is also an effective way to prevent cervical cancer. During sexual activity, women should practice good hygiene and minimize the number of abortions, which can greatly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.