Breast Unit and teamwork: how breast cancer care is changing

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, but scientific research and prevention have radically changed the landscape. Today, thanks to early diagnosis, the chances of recovery have reached very high percentages, restoring hope and quality of life to millions of patients. We discussed this with Dr. Federica Augelli, reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeon at Niguarda Hospital in Milan.

«It’s estimated that one in eight women will encounter it over the course of her life. The good news is that today, thanks to early diagnosis, we are able to achieve recovery rates of around 85–90 percent», says the doctor.

The power of early diagnosis

The role of early diagnosis is central and does not concern only older women. Augelli emphasizes that check-ups should be tailored based on age and risk factors.

«In Italy, screening programs exist that provide mammograms starting at ages 45–50 through the national health system. For younger women, however, it’s important to remember that ultrasound is very important, and in particular cases—such as a family history—MRI also plays a very important role».

Alongside instrumental exams, the specialist also stresses individual awareness: «In addition to this, I encourage all women to know their bodies and not to underestimate the importance of palpation and self-examination. Often, this is the first form of awareness that leads to a diagnosis».

Barriers to overcome

Despite progress, many women postpone check-ups due to fears, embarrassment, or cultural taboos.

«Often the diagnosis is a social stigma; there’s the fear of the diagnosis itself, but also the embarrassment of the exam, and the belief that these things only happen to others and never to us. I would also add the fear of surgery—of losing one’s femininity—and of the surgical procedure itself».

Dr. Augelli continues, «Talking about this, facing the topic not only during October but throughout the year, truly means giving strength to the patients who are going through this journey».

Reconstructive surgery and quality of life

Reconstructive plastic surgery is no longer just an aesthetic detail but a crucial step in the care process. «Today, we no longer think only about curing cancer, but about restoring a 360-degree quality of life for women – says Augelli – Plastic surgery plays a major role in this area. It restores harmony to the body, but above all it helps women regain the self-esteem and femininity that many feel they have lost due to the operation».

Augelli adds, «The gold standard in all hospitals is immediate reconstruction. After the mastectomy, the reconstruction is performed during the same procedure. This certainly has a major psychological impact on patients when they wake up».

A team effort

The care pathway involves much more than surgery. In specialized centers, the so-called breast units, collaboration among specialists is essential. «Today, in all hospitals that treat breast cancer, there are facilities called breast units. They are based precisely on teamwork. Within them you find oncologists, radiotherapists, nutritionists, psychologists, and plastic surgeons. Everyone contributes their valuable expertise to ensure that the patient never feels alone. Modern medicine no longer treats only the disease—this is important to remember—but seeks to treat the whole person, addressing not only physical but also mental and psychological health».

Prevention all year round

October reminds us of how important prevention is, but health has no seasons. Dr. Augelli’s message applies every day of the year, a constant invitation to self-care: «Breast cancer today can be treated. Early diagnosis, trust in treatment pathways, and the awareness among women that there is a solution made specifically for us—that is really what makes a difference and what can make a difference in the future. Talking about it, even on social media platforms, can save lives».