Because breast cancer affects many women - even here on Lake Zurich. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Switzerland. In 2024, 6,617 women were diagnosed with the disease - around one in nine women will be affected during their lifetime. However, thanks to modern diagnostics and treatment, the chances of recovery are now very good.
Early detection is crucial
The earlier a tumor is detected, the more gently and successfully it can be treated. In addition to self-examination and annual gynecological check-ups, mammography is the most important tool. It is now recommended that screening be continued until the age of 75 - an important step in detecting tumors in older women in good time. A lump in the breast is not always malignant, but any new palpable change, especially after the menopause, should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Modern treatment methods
Breast cancer is not an emergency situation - there is time to plan the therapy carefully. Surgery, drug therapy and radiotherapy are combined individually and are central elements of the multimodal treatment concept. An important aim of treatment is to avoid overtreatment. Today, gentle surgical techniques are available, which are often breast-conserving. In selected cases, the removal of lymph nodes in the armpit can be dispensed with. Radiation treatment has also become more targeted: modern equipment and optimized regimens protect healthy tissue and reduce side effects. Drug therapy is increasingly being customized to provide effective treatment and improve survival without severely restricting quality of life.
Deciding together
It is important that the patient's wishes, needs and personal circumstances are taken into account from the outset when planning treatment. Early detection is the key to successful breast cancer treatment. Anyone who takes changes in the breast seriously and attends regular check-ups increases the chance of detecting a tumor at an early, easily treatable stage. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the gentler the treatment - and the better the chances of recovery.
