Breast Cancer
What Is Breast Cancer?
While breast cancer primarily affects women, it can occur in men as well. It occurs when genetic mutations cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. If left untreated, these cells can invade surrounding healthy tissue or spread (metastasize) through the blood and lymph vessels to other parts of the body.
Key Signs and Symptoms
Being familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts is vital for early detection. You should consult a medical professional if you notice any of the following changes:
- A new lump or thickened area in the breast, upper chest, or armpit.
- Changes in the size, shape, or symmetry of the breast.
- Skin changes, such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or an orange-peel texture.
- Nipple changes, including an inverted nipple (pulled inward) or changes in its orientation.
- Unusual or bloody discharge from the nipple.
- Flaking, scaling, or crusting of the skin on the nipple or breast.
Risk Factors
While having risk factors does not guarantee you will get breast cancer, it is important to be aware of them. The primary factors include:
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Age
The risk increases as you get older, with most cases diagnosed after age 50.
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Genetics
Inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly elevate the risk of breast cancer.
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Family History
Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast or ovarian cancer increases risk.
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Breast Composition
Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk.
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Hormonal and Reproductive History
Extended exposure to estrogen—such as starting menstruation early or experiencing menopause late—can play a role.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Screening is the most effective way to catch breast cancer early, often before any symptoms develop. Standard diagnostic tools include mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and MRIs.
Treatment plans depend on the type, stage, and biology of the cancer, and are tailored to each patient. Common treatments include:
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Surgery
Options range from breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to the removal of the entire breast (mastectomy).
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Radiation Therapy
Using high-energy rays to kill remaining cancer cells.
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Chemotherapy
Medication to destroy fast-growing cancer cells throughout the body.
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Hormone Therapy
Drugs designed to block hormones that fuel certain types of breast cancer.
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Targeted and Immunotherapies
Treatments that specifically target cancer cell proteins or utilize the body's immune system.
