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Breast Cancer : Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. Breast cancer starts in the cells lining the milk ducts or lobules, and it can either stay localized (in situ) or invade surrounding tissues. If untreated, cancer cells can spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body, making the disease more serious and potentially life-threatening.
Breast cancer caused 670,000 deaths globally in 2022.
Breast cancer occurs in every country in the world.
Approximately 0.5–1% of breast cancers occur in men.
Stages
Breast cancer stages:
Stage 0: Non-invasive, confined within the ducts.
Stage I: Small tumors with limited nearby tissue, no or limited lymph node involvement.
Stage II: Tumors range from less than 2cm to over 5cm, may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III: Larger or more spread in nearby tissues and lymph nodes—often called locally advanced.
Stage IV: Metastatic cancer that has spread to distant organs like bones, liver, lungs, or brain.
Risk Factors
- Age: Risk increases significantly after 55.
- Sex: Women are much more affected than men.
- Family history: Having relatives with breast cancer raises your risk.
- Genetics: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes account for about 15% of cases.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking and alcohol consumption are linked to a higher risk.
- Obesity: Excess weight is a notable risk factor.
- Radiation exposure: Prior radiation therapy, especially to the chest area.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone replacement therapy can increase risk.
Signs and Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Persistent or unusual changes—like lumps, skin alterations, nipple changes, or size and shape differences—are important for early detection.
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
- Physical exam: To check for lumps or abnormalities.
- Mammograms: X-ray images that can detect suspicious areas.
- Ultrasound: Differentiates solid tumors from cysts.
- MRI: Provides detailed images, especially useful for high-risk patients.
- Biopsy: Removing tissue samples for lab analysis to confirm cancer presence.
- Immunohistochemistry: Tests for hormone receptor status, helping guide treatment.
- Genetic testing: Identifies inherited mutations like BRCA1/2 that increase risk.
When to consult a Doctor
Promptly seeing a healthcare professional if you notice any breast changes, such as lumps, skin alterations, nipple changes, or unusual size or shape, is crucial. Early evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes, regardless of recent mammogram results.
Preventions
- Discuss screening options with your healthcare provider to determine the right schedule.
- Perform breast self-awareness to notice changes early.
- Limit alcohol intake, ideally avoiding it altogether if you’re highly concerned.
- Stay physically active—aim for at least 30 minutes most days.
- Be cautious with hormone therapy, using the lowest dose for the shortest time if necessary.
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Key preventive strategies for those at high risk of breast cancer are:
- Preventive medicines like selective estrogen receptor modulators (e.g., tamoxifen) or aromatase inhibitors can reduce risk but have potential side effects, so they’re reserved for those with significant risk after careful consultation.
- Preventive surgery, such as prophylactic mastectomy or oophorectomy, can significantly lower risk for women with very high genetic or familial risk factors.
