Valais Breast Center

The Valais Breast Center, located in Sion for the French-speaking part of Valais and in Visp for Upper Valais, brings together all the expertise needed to treat breast diseases. The Sion site has been officially recognized by the Swiss Cancer League thanks to its quality label, which guarantees care that meets the highest standards. Radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, radiotherapy specialists, pathologists, specialized nurses, psychologists, and physical therapists work closely together to offer comprehensive, personalized care. From screening to treatment, prevention, and follow-up, each patient receives care tailored to her individual situation.

Breast cancer is a disease that occurs when certain cells in the breast multiply uncontrollably. These cells first form a localized tumor, which can then spread to nearby tissues or, more rarely, to other parts of the body.
The vast majority of breast cancers develop in the ducts or mammary gland. Each cancer is unique and requires treatment tailored to the patient's situation.

The exact causes of breast cancer are unknown, but certain factors increase the risk:

• Age: the risk increases after age 50.
• Hormonal factors: early puberty, late menopause, late first pregnancy, no pregnancies, or certain hormone treatments.
• Family and genetic history: BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, or close relatives with breast/ovarian cancer.
• Lifestyle: alcohol consumption, smoking, being overweight, lack of physical activity.
  Conversely, multiple early pregnancies and breastfeeding appear to reduce the risk.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In Switzerland, around 6,300 new cases are diagnosed each year. One in eight women will be affected during their lifetime.
It can occur at any age, but is most often diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 69.

In its early stages, breast cancer may be silent. However, certain signs should prompt you to seek medical advice:

• A firm lump in the breast or armpit
• A change in the size or shape of the breast
• Changes in the nipple or breast skin
• Abnormal nipple discharge
• These signs do not always mean cancer, but they do require medical attention.

Screening allows breast cancer to be detected early, before symptoms appear. The earlier it is identified, the better the chances of recovery and the less invasive the treatment required.
In Valais, an organized screening program invites all women aged 50 and over to have regular mammograms. Individual screening may be recommended earlier if risk factors are present.

Breast cancer is often detected:

• During a mammogram as part of a screening program
• During a routine medical examination
• Following observation of an abnormality by the patient or her family and friends
• Additional tests (imaging, biopsy) are then necessary to confirm the diagnosis and propose appropriate treatment.

The Valais Breast Center has modern technical facilities and draws on the expertise of specialists in:

• radiology
• breast surgery
• pathology
• radiotherapy
• medical oncology
• specialized nursing care in senology
• psychology/psychiatry
• physiotherapy

Together, they offer high-quality care and treatment tailored to the individual situation and needs of each patient.