Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breast. It usually begins in the milk ducts or the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk. Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. It is predominantly found in women, but men can also develop it. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for better outcomes.

Symptoms

Breast cancer can present with various symptoms, although some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. It’s important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms related to breast cancer:

Diagnosis

Breast cancer diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests, such as

Self-breast examination

Performing regular self-breast examinations is crucial for the early detection of breast cancer. Start by visually inspecting your breasts for any changes or abnormalities. Then, using your fingers, gently feel for lumps or thickening in the breast tissue. If you notice any changes, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Mammography

Mammography is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine the breasts for early signs of breast cancer. It plays a crucial role in detecting abnormalities, such as tumors or calcifications, even before they can be felt. 

Biopsy

A breast cancer biopsy is a medical procedure used to collect a small sample of tissue or cells from the breast for examination. It helps determine whether a breast abnormality is cancerous or benign, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning. Biopsies play a crucial role in breast cancer detection and management.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although it is very difficult to state the exact causes behind any type of cancer, however, several factors may increase the risk of it.

  • Age and Gender
  • Family History and Genetics
  • Personal History of Breast Cancer
  • Not maintaining a healthy lifestyle
  • Consuming birth control pills for a long time
  • To avoid breastfeeding.
  • Consuming alcohol
  • Obesity
  • Radiation Exposure

Treatment

Surgery
It involves removing the cancerous portion of your breast and an area of normal tissue surrounding the tumour. Breast cancer surgery is a common treatment option that involves removing cancerous tissue from the breast. It may include lumpectomy (removing the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Surgery is often combined with other treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy to improve outcomes.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment. It involves taking medications that destroy or shrink cancer cells. Breast cancer chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses powerful drugs to target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Administered orally or through intravenous infusion, it aims to shrink tumors, prevent their spread, and reduce the risk of recurrence. While it can have side effects, it plays a crucial role in improving survival rates and treating breast cancer effectively.

Radiation Therapy
Breast cancer radiation therapy is a targeted treatment that uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells in the breast area. It is commonly used after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Radiation therapy helps kill remaining cancer cells and can be an effective part of comprehensive breast cancer treatment.

Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a treatment option commonly used for breast cancer patients whose tumors are hormone receptor-positive. Hormone therapy is often used alongside other treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.