Frequently Asked Questions

Mammography makes it possible to detect even very small changes in breast tissue at an early stage. This provides peace of mind and increases the chances of detecting diseases in their early stages.

The prognosis and the necessary treatment depend heavily on how early breast cancer is detected.

If the condition is detected early, less intensive treatment is often required, and recovery is faster.

Yes, definitely.

Most cases of breast cancer do not cause any symptoms at first. That is why it is important to get regular screenings.

Mammography is used for early detection and should not be performed only after symptoms have already appeared.

In Switzerland, a mammogram is generally recommended every two years starting at age 50.

If there is a family history of the condition or an increased risk, screening is tailored to the individual and, if necessary, conducted earlier or more frequently.

In most cases, cancer develops spontaneously and is influenced by various risk factors such as age, lifestyle, or hormonal factors.

However, a small proportion of cancers are hereditary. In the case of breast cancer, this accounts for about 5 to 10% of cases. These genetic changes can be passed down from one generation to the next.

In the case of ovarian cancer, the proportion of hereditary cases is higher. One in five patients has hereditary ovarian cancer.

BRCA is the abbreviation for "breast cancer" and is most commonly used in connection with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

These genes are important for repairing DNA damage in cells. Every person has two copies of them.

However, if there is a change (mutation) in one of these genes, the risk of developing cancer over the course of a person’s lifetime increases significantly.

Genetic changes, such as BRCA mutations, can increase the risk of various types of cancer.

In women, this primarily affects breast cancer and ovarian cancer. In men, the risk of prostate cancer is particularly elevated.

In addition, both men and women may be at increased risk for pancreatic cancer and skin cancer

Genetic testing is particularly useful when there are indications of a family history of the disease. These include, for example, multiple cases of cancer in the family, diagnoses at a relatively young age, or specific patterns of different types of cancer.

The decision to undergo genetic testing is always made on an individual basis and is typically accompanied by genetic counseling.

Carrier screening is a specific genetic test that is performed when a genetic mutation is already known to exist in a family.

Blood relatives can thus determine whether they also carry this mutation.

For women at increased risk of breast cancer, we recommend imaging tests (mammography). For men at increased risk of prostate cancer, we recommend a PSA test (blood test). For those at increased risk of colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy is an option. Unfortunately, there are no reliable methods for the early detection of ovarian cancer.

In certain situations, preventive measures may also be considered. The appropriate steps are always discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Close monitoring can help detect the disease early and significantly improve the overall chances of successful treatment.

A tissue sample (biopsy) is taken to examine any abnormal changes in the tissue more closely.

Imaging tests such as mammography or ultrasound can provide clues, but only by removing and analyzing tissue can a definitive determination be made as to whether the change is benign or malignant.

A biopsy is therefore an important step in making an accurate diagnosis.

A biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but you usually won't experience any real pain. A bruise may develop after the procedure.

First, the skin is disinfected, and then a local anesthetic is administered. Next, a small tissue sample is taken using a fine needle under image guidance (ultrasound). The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.

It usually takes two to four days to get the results.

As soon as all the results are in, we will discuss them with you and plan the next steps together.

No, this common concern is unfounded.

There are many studies showing that a biopsy does not carry a risk of spreading the tumor. The procedures used are medically established and considered safe.

A biopsy is an important and necessary step in order to gain clarity and plan the appropriate treatment.

No, not every woman with breast cancer needs chemotherapy.

Whether chemotherapy is appropriate depends on various factors, such as the type of tumor, its size, and its biological characteristics.

Treatment is always tailored to each individual to ensure the best possible care for their specific situation.

Nausea can be a possible side effect of chemotherapy, but it occurs much less frequently today and is usually less severe than it used to be.

There are effective medications available that can prevent or relieve nausea.

The treatment is tailored to each individual so that side effects can be managed as effectively as possible.

No, hair loss does not occur with every course of chemotherapy.

Whether hair falls out depends on the medications used. Some treatments cause hair loss, while others do not.

Using a cooling cap constricts the blood vessels in the scalp. This reduces the amount of chemotherapy drug that reaches the hair follicles, thereby minimizing hair loss.

The chemotherapy process is always roughly the same. First, blood is drawn, followed by a consultation with a doctor. If the blood test results are good and the patient is feeling well, a joint decision is made to proceed with the treatment that day.

The medications are usually administered via an IV and take between one and four hours, depending on the composition of the treatment.

Throughout your treatment, you will be supported by an interdisciplinary team. This team includes doctors, nurses, and other specialists.

Nurses play a central role in this process and are often the primary points of contact in patients’ daily lives. They guide, support, and coordinate care throughout the entire course of treatment.

Many cancer treatments are now provided on an outpatient basis. This means that you can come to the center for your treatment and then go home afterward.

Nurses perform a wide range of tasks in the care of cancer patients.

They assist with the administration of treatment, monitor patients’ health, and help manage side effects. At the same time, they serve as key points of contact for questions and concerns that arise in daily life.

They play a key role in helping patients feel well cared for and safe.

The treatment team will also assist you with hair replacement.

Nurses can provide initial information and, if necessary, refer patients to specialized agencies or specialty stores.

This way, you’ll receive personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

A tumor board is an interdisciplinary meeting in which specialists from various fields work together to determine the best treatment plan for a patient.

In this process, all relevant findings are compiled and evaluated from various professional perspectives.

A tumor board is an interdisciplinary meeting in which specialists from various fields discuss a patient's diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan.

In this process, all relevant findings are compiled and evaluated from various professional perspectives.

A quality seal indicates that a center meets certain medical and organizational standards.

This includes, among other things, structured processes, regular reviews, and close collaboration between various departments.

For patients, this means added safety and treatment that meets recognized quality standards.

Medicine in general is constantly evolving.

Through regular continuing education, the treatment team stays up to date on the latest research and therapies.

This ensures that patients benefit from the latest findings and modern treatment options.

Breast reconstruction can be performed either during the surgery or at a later date.

Both options are possible and medically appropriate. The choice of option depends on various factors, such as the individual’s situation, the planned treatment, and personal preferences.

Generally speaking, there are two main options for breast reconstruction: using implants or using the patient’s own tissue.

Both methods have different advantages and are used depending on the initial situation and personal needs.

The most suitable method will be discussed and planned on an individual basis.

In addition to implants, there are also natural procedures that use the body's own tissue from various parts of the body.

The choice depends on various medical and personal factors.

No, breast reconstruction is not mandatory.

Whether or not to undergo reconstruction is a very personal decision. There is no medical necessity to undergo reconstruction.