
What is Breast Cancer, Causes, Symptoms And Prevention?
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both men and women, but it is far more common in women. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. These cancerous cells can form a mass or lump, known as a tumour, which can invade surrounding tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body. Breast are milk producing specialized glands in women. Lymph vessels carry a clear fluid called lymph into the small bean-shaped structures which contain immune cells called lymph nodes. Breast Lymph vessels drain into the lymph nodes in axilla. Although rare but breast cancer can develop in males also.
Breast cancer is the cancer arising from the cells of the breast. Malignant tumors are the tumor which have potential to invade other tissues and spread to other organs of the body. It’s important to understand that most breast lumps are nit means they grow inside breast tissue and do not spread to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer is most common cancer and the most common cause of cancer related mortality in Indian females.
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): The cancer cells are confined to the milk ducts and have not invaded surrounding tissues.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The cancer cells invade nearby tissues in the breast.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Cancer starts in the milk-producing glands and can invade nearby tissues.
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A subtype that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors.
- HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Characterized by the presence of excess HER2 protein.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These include:
- Gender and Age: Women are at a higher risk than men, and the risk increases with age.
- Family History: A family history of breast cancer, especially if it involves close relatives like mother, sister, or daughter, can increase the risk.
- Genetic Mutations: Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Hormonal Factors: Exposure to estrogen over a long period, either through early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk.
- Personal History: Having a previous history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases can increase the risk.
- Radiation Exposure: Exposure to ionizing radiation, especially at a young age, is a known risk factor.
- Reproductive Factors: Women who have never had children or had their first child after the age of 30 may be at a higher risk.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of breast cancer can vary, but common signs include:
- Lump in the Breast: A painless, hard mass in the breast is often the first noticeable symptom.
- Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Any unexplained changes in the size or shape of the breast.
- Changes in the Skin: Redness, dimpling, or puckering of the skin over the breast.
- Nipple Changes: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or pain.
- Pain: While breast cancer is often painless, some individuals may experience breast or nipple pain.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Diagnostic methods include mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these, depending on the stage and type of breast cancer.
Prevention:
While not all cases of breast cancer can be prevented, there are lifestyle choices that may help reduce the risk:
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to overall well-being.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Limiting alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Breastfeeding: Women who breastfeed may have a lower risk of breast cancer.
- Regular Screening: Mammograms and regular breast self-exams are important for early detection.
It’s crucial for individuals to be aware of their breast health, perform regular self-exams, and seek medical attention if they notice any unusual changes. Regular screenings are also recommended, particularly for individuals with risk factors or a family history of breast cancer.