What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is one of the most frequent cancers in women. It occurs when malignant cells in the breasts multiply and become tumors. Approximately 80% of breast cancer incidences are invasive, which means that a tumor can move from the breast to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer mainly affects women over the age of 50, although it can also affect younger women. Men and people who were designated male at birth may get breast cancer. too.

What causes breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a complex disease, and its exact cause is not fully understood. It is likely to be a result of a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here are some known risk factors associated with the development of breast cancer:

Family History: A family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter), can increase the risk.

Early Menstruation/Late Menopause: Women who started menstruating at an early age or entered menopause at a later age may have a slightly higher risk.

Previous Breast Cancer: A history of breast cancer increases the risk of developing cancer in the other breast or a new cancer in the same breast.

Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity has been linked to an increased risk.

Alcohol Consumption: Regular and excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk.

Radiation Exposure: Exposure to ionizing radiation, especially during adolescence, increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

Sex: Patients older age of 50 may have breast cancer.

BRCA Mutations: Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

Having one or more risk factors does not guarantee that an individual will develop breast cancer, and many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no known risk factors. Additionally, the majority of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease. Regular screenings, early detection, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial in managing breast cancer risk.

Breast cancer symptoms

The cancer may impact the breasts in a variety of ways. Some breast cancer symptoms are particularly distinct. Others may appear to be parts of the breast that are noticeably different from the rest. Breast cancer might not generate any obvious symptoms.

But still, it has some symptoms such as:

Lump or Mass: A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.

Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Unexplained changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.

Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort in the breast or nipple.

Changes in Skin: Skin changes, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.

Nipple Changes: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.

Swelling: Swelling or distortion of part of the breast.

These symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than breast cancer, but any persistent changes should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional. Regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential for early detection.

How to diagnose breast cancer?

Breast cancer diagnosis involves a combination of imaging tests, clinical examinations, and laboratory procedures. Here are common methods used in the diagnosis of breast cancer:

Clinical Breast Exam (CBE): A healthcare professional examines the breasts and surrounding areas for lumps, changes in size or shape, or other abnormalities.

Breast Self-Exams: Women are encouraged to perform regular self-exams to detect any changes in the breast, such as lumps or abnormalities.

Mammography: X-ray images of the breast are taken to detect abnormalities or tumors that may not be felt during a clinical breast exam. Mammograms are a key tool for breast cancer screening.

Ultrasound: This imaging technique uses sound waves to create a picture of the breast tissue. Ultrasound can help determine whether a lump is fluid-filled (cyst) or solid.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI provides detailed images of the breast tissue and is often used in conjunction with mammography for further evaluation, especially in high-risk cases.

Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope to determine whether it is cancerous. Types of biopsies include:

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): A thin needle is used to withdraw a small sample of tissue.

Core Needle Biopsy: A larger needle is used to remove the core of tissue.

Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy: A special device is used to collect multiple tissue samples.

Surgical (Open) Biopsy: A surgical procedure to remove a sample of tissue for examination.

Hormone Receptor Testing: This test determines whether the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen, progesterone, or HER2. It helps guide treatment decisions, especially regarding hormone therapy and targeted therapies.

Genetic Testing: In cases where there is a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, genetic testing may be done to identify specific genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.

Treatment process

Breast cancer treatment varies based on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as individual patient factors. The primary treatment modalities for breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

The combination of these treatments may be used in a specific sequence or concurrently, depending on the specific characteristics of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Here’s an overview of the main treatment options:

Surgery:

Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue.

Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast, which can be either simple (removing the entire breast) or radical (removing the breast and underlying chest muscles).

Radiation Therapy:

External beam radiation: High-energy rays target the affected breast or the chest wall after surgery to kill the remaining cancer cells.

Internal radiation (brachytherapy): Radioactive materials are placed near the tumor site to deliver targeted radiation.

Chemotherapy:

The use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with surgery or radiation.

Hormonal Therapy:

For hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, hormonal therapy is used to block or lower the levels of hormones that fuel certain types of breast cancer. This can include medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.

Targeted Therapy:

Targeted drugs aim at specific molecules involved in cancer growth. For example, Herceptin (trastuzumab) is used for HER2-positive breast cancers.

Immunotherapy:

Stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. While not as commonly used in breast cancer as in some other cancers, research is ongoing to explore its effectiveness.

Treatment plans are personalized, and the specific combination and sequence of therapies depend on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, hormone receptor status, HER2 status, and the patient’s overall health.

How to prevent it?

While it is not always possible to prevent breast cancer, there are several lifestyle choices and strategies that may help reduce the risk of developing the disease. Here are some preventive measures:

Regular Screening: Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, clinical breast exams, and self-exams, can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Follow recommended screening guidelines based on age and risk factors.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices:

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. Adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage weight.

Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or other aerobic exercises. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Limit Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. If you drink, do so in moderation.

Healthy Diet:

Fruits and Vegetables: Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet, as they contain antioxidants and other compounds that may help reduce cancer risk.

Whole Grains: Choose whole grains over refined grains for added fiber and nutrients.

Limit Fat Intake: Reduce saturated and trans fats in your diet.

Know Your Family History: Be aware of your family history of breast cancer and other related cancers. If you have a family history, discuss it with your healthcare provider to determine if additional screening or preventive measures are necessary.

Genetic Counseling and Testing: In cases of strong family history or certain risk factors, genetic counseling and testing may be considered to identify specific genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2).

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