Breast Cancer Screening: Why Early Detection Matters

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Vietnam. What is important is that when it is detected at an early stage, the cure rate is very high, whereas in advanced stages the prognosis drops markedly. Regular screening is therefore a proactive and important step.

Why does early detection matter?

Breast cancer develops silently in its early stages and often does not cause pain. When it is detected early — while the tumour is still small and has not spread — treatment is more effective and the chance of preserving the breast is much higher. Screening helps “catch” the disease at the stage most favourable to treatment.

What does a breast ultrasound detect?

• Examination of breast tissue, detecting nodules and solid or cystic lesions.
• Assessment of the size, margins, density and suspicious features of a lesion.
• Monitoring of lesions already found at previous follow-up visits.

The role of elastography

Elastography assesses the stiffness of a lesion. Because malignant tissue is usually stiffer than healthy tissue, this information helps doctors distinguish benign from malignant tumours and reduces the chance of missing a dangerous lesion.

Who should have breast cancer screening?

• Women over 30, especially those aged 40 and over.
• Those with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
• Those with risk factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle or long-term hormone use.
• Women with a previously detected breast lesion that needs monitoring.

How is screening performed?

Breast ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive method that is well suited to the breast tissue of Vietnamese women. When a suspicious nodule is found, the doctor may order a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or vacuum-assisted biopsy (VABB) to determine the nature of the lesion.

Screening at Phuc Khang

At Phuc Khang 5D Ultrasound Clinic, Dr. Truong Xuan Luc, MSc performs the ultrasound and interprets the results directly. He combines elastography to assess the lesion and advises on a specific monitoring plan.

This information is for reference only and does not replace direct medical advice. Screening results should be interpreted by a specialist.