Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in women worldwide. Although it sounds scary, early detection and proper treatment greatly increase the chances of a complete cure. In this article, we will take a closer look at this condition, discussing its causes, symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment, as well as ways of prevention.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a malignancy in which cells in the breast gland begin to multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The tumor can be malignant, meaning that it has the ability to infiltrate surrounding tissues and give metastasis to other organs, or benign, which does not spread beyond the breast.
Most breast cancers develop in the milk ducts (ductal carcinoma), less commonly in the milk-producing lobules (lobular carcinoma).
Risk factors for breast cancer
There are many factors that can increase the risk of breast cancer. These include:
- Genetic factors: mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, as well as other cancer predisposition genes
- Age: the risk of the disease increases with age, and is most often diagnosed in women over 50 years of age
- Gender: breast cancer is much more common in women than in men
- Family history: having a mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer increases the risk of developing the disease
- Early first menstruation and late menopause: extended period of estrogen exposure
- No pregnancies or first pregnancy after age 30
- Hormone replacement therapy: long-term use of HTZ
- Obesity and physical inactivity
- Alcohol consumption
- Exposure to ionizing radiation
It is important to remember that the presence of risk factors does not mean that one will definitely develop breast cancer. Many women with these factors will never develop the disease, and some develop breast cancer despite the absence of known risk factors.
Symptoms of breast cancer
The early stages of breast cancer are often asymptomatic. That is why regular preventive examinations are so important. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- A palpable lump in the breast or under the armpit: this is usually the first symptom noticed by women
- Changes in the appearance of the breasts: change in breast shape or size, asymmetry, retraction of the nipple, redness or swelling of the breast skin
- Nipple leakage: may be clear, milky, bloody or purulent
- Changes in the nipple: retraction, ulceration, change in color, peeling skin
It is important to consult a doctor about any worrisome change in the breast.
Breast cancer diagnosis
Early detection of breast cancer greatly increases the chances of a cure. Diagnostic methods include:
- Breast self-examination: should be performed monthly by all women in their 20s. It allows detection of alarming changes and quick response.
- Breast palpation: performed by a doctor during a follow-up visit.
- Mammography: breast X-ray, recommended for women over 40 every 1-2 years.
- Breast ultrasound: an ultrasound examination often used as an adjunct to mammography, especially in younger women.
- Biopsy: taking a piece of tumor tissue for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of cancer.
- MRI: used in selected cases, such as women with high genetic risk.
Breast cancer treatment
Breast cancer treatment depends on many factors, such as:
- Stage of the disease
- Type of cancer
- Patient’s general condition
- Patient preferences
The available treatments are:
- Surgery: removal of a tumor from the breast (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy).
- Radiation therapy: irradiating the tumor with ionizing rays.
- Chemotherapy: treatment with anti-cancer drugs.
- Hormone therapy: blocking the action of hormones that stimulate tumor growth.
- Targeted therapy: treatment with drugs that attack specific molecules in cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: stimulating the immune system to fight cancer.
Often a combination of several treatment methods is used.
Breast cancer prevention
While the risk of breast cancer cannot be completely eliminated, there are ways that can reduce it:
- Healthy lifestyle: proper nutrition, regular physical activity, avoiding overweight and obesity, limiting alcohol consumption.
- Regular preventive examinations: breast self-examination, palpation by a doctor, mammography.
- Breastfeeding: reduces the risk of breast cancer.
- Avoid hormone replacement therapy: if possible, limit the use of HTZ.
- Genetic consultation: if there is a family history of breast cancer, genetic consultation is worth considering.
Life after breast cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis is a difficult experience, but many women return to full health after treatment. It is important to take care of your physical and mental health, get help from specialists and support from loved ones. There are many organizations and support groups that offer help to women after breast cancer.
Summary
Breast cancer is a serious disease, but early detection and proper treatment offer a good chance of a cure. Let’s remember about regular preventive examinations and a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of getting the disease. In case of any worrisome symptoms, let’s immediately consult a doctor.
