When Angelina Jolie publicly revealed in 2013 that she underwent a preventive surgery due to a BRCA1 mutation, a topic that often remained hidden came into focus: the power of early detection. Her decision was based on solid science and demonstrated how knowledge can change lives. That’s what this is about: understanding warning signs, assessing risks, and making decisions that protect your health and performance in the long term.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It is crucial to detect it before it metastasizes. Screening refers to systematic examinations without acute symptoms. The primary method is mammography, which may be supplemented by digital breast tomosynthesis3D mammography that better separates overlapping tissue layers, breast MRImagnetic resonance imaging with high sensitivity, particularly in high-risk patients, and ultrasound as needed. Risk profiles are categorized into average, intermediate, and high. High risk often indicates genetic predisposition, such as mutations in BRCA1/2 or other oncogenes. Early signs can be subtle: new lumps, skin dimpling, asymmetries, retractable nipples, unusual discharge, or persistent redness. Many of these changes are benign – but they deserve investigation. The key: know your baseline risk, monitor changes, and utilize guideline-based screening.

Early detection significantly reduces mortality and treatment burden because tumors are smaller and less likely to metastasize in the early stages. Regular screening has been shown to decrease the risk of dying from breast cancer and reduces morbidity, as less aggressive therapies are needed ^[1]. Conversely, missed screenings and delayed diagnoses increase the likelihood of advanced findings. Lifestyle also has an indirect effect: physical inactivity correlates with lower rates of mammography utilization, which can exacerbate inequalities in care ^[2]. Staying active and participating in screening therefore improves the chances of a long, energetic life – not only through biology but also through behavior.

Guideline-based imaging is the backbone of early detection. Evidence-based criteria recommend mammography or digital tomosynthesis for individuals assigned female at birth with native breast tissue across all risk groups; in high-risk cases, MRI screenings may begin as early as 25 to 30 years of age, supplemented by mammography depending on risk type between 25 and 40 years. These recommendations are based on systematic literature analyses and structured expert panels, consistently demonstrating that routine screenings substantially reduce mortality and morbidity ^[1]. Genetics defines risk in a nuanced way. In addition to BRCA1/2, other genes such as TP53, PALB2, CDH1, PTEN, and STK11 significantly contribute to familial breast cancer; high- and moderate-penetrance variants have clear clinical action paths, while low-penetrance variants still require validation. The expansion of high-throughput sequencing refines risk models, increases the detection of rare variants, and makes qualified genetic counseling essential ^{[3] [4] [5]}. Meanwhile, imaging is advancing: contrast-enhanced techniques, tomosynthesis, and molecular imaging improve diagnostic accuracy, while emerging technologies – such as photoacoustics, AI-assisted interpretation, and wearable sensors like "smart bras" – could enhance sensitivity, comfort, and personalization in the future. These innovations are not replacement technologies but complement each other in multimodal, risk-adapted strategies, with a clear goal: even earlier and more precise detection while improving accessibility ^{[6] [7]}.

- Have regular mammograms performed according to your age and risk profile; for high risk, add MRI screening early. Talk to your doctor about starting age and intervals – this minimizes mortality and treatment burden ^[1].
- Clarify your family history: Was there breast or ovarian cancer (age at diagnosis, degree of relation)? If hereditary suspicion exists, book a genetic counseling session and possibly panel testing (e.g., BRCA1/2, PALB2, TP53). This sharpens your risk profile and adjusts screening accordingly ^{[3] [4] [5]}.
- Participate in informed education programs: Learn to differentiate between modifiable (e.g., lifestyle) and non-modifiable risks (age, genetics). Better knowledge has been shown to lead to more targeted prevention decisions ^[8].
- Stay physically active: Regular exercise corresponds with higher mammography utilization – a practical lever to increase early detection opportunities ^[2].
- Stay informed about new screening methods: Inquire about tomosynthesis for dense breasts, learn about contrast mammography, MBI, and check where AI-assisted interpretation is available. Follow developments in wearable detection systems, even if they are still in clinical validation ^{[6] [7]}.

Early detection is not a matter of chance, but of systems: know your risk, utilize guideline-based screening, and stay informed. Schedule your next screening appointment today, gather your family history, and plan a counseling session – three steps that increase your chances of a long, healthy life.