"Nowadays, a diagnosis of breast cancer is by no means a death sentence," said DGS vice president diethelm wallwiener. In the majority of cases the breast could be preserved. Also at the lymph nodes under the armpits could be operated more gently, the lesser long-term complaints.
Around 2500 physicians will deal with breast diseases at the congress until saturday. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, with more than 70,000 new cases every year. One in eight falls ill. With genetic predisposition, the risk is 80 percent – and 60 percent for ovarian cancer.
An alternative to the radical decision to remove the breast in the case of a high hereditary risk, as made by U.S. Actress angelina jolie, is close-meshed, comprehensive preventive examinations. Lifestyle also has a decisive influence, said co-congress president marion kiechle. The risk of recurrence and mortality in female patients is reduced by 50 percent if they exercise regularly.