Shedding Light On Breast Cancer
March 3, 2023
5 min read
Despite being one of the most common types of cancer, many are still unaware of its signs and symptoms. Not understanding these can lead to a delayed diagnosis, leading to a more advanced stage in treatment.
Shedding Light On Breast Cancer
Organizations and individuals in breast cancer research and care are making great strides in improving treatment options and outcomes. But there is still much work to be done. By shining a light on breast cancer, we can help to save lives and offer hope.
Breast Cancer Causes
Breast cancer is an alarming and potentially dangerous disease that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. While the exact causes of breast cancer are still unknown, we can identify specific risk factors that have been linked to the development of this type of cancer. Here is a closer look at a few key causes:
- Risk Factors
Certain lifestyle choices and environmental exposures may increase your odds of developing breast cancer. For example, tobacco smoke, alcohol consumption, obesity, physical inactivity, hormone use, radiation exposure, and lack of breastfeeding have all been identified as potential risk factors.
- Genetics
Specific genes can cause abnormal cell growth, which increases the risk of malignancy. Scientists are currently researching this area to determine if genetic testing could one day be used to diagnose breast cancer in its early stages.
In addition, environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, can also impact a person's genetic makeup and increase their risk of developing breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
It's imperative to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this illness so you can catch it as early as possible. Understanding the symptoms of breast cancer is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. There are three main symptoms of breast cancer: changes in breast tissue, lumps, and nipple discharge.
- Changes in Breast Tissue
Breast tissue may feel thicker, heavier, or have a different texture. It may also look red, inflamed, or dimpled like an orange peel. These changes may appear on the entire breast or just a portion. Keep an eye out for any changes to the breast tissue, no matter how slight, and talk to your healthcare provider if you notice any.
- Lumps
The lump may feel stiff, rubbery, or movable under the skin. It may also be tender to the touch. Early detection of breast cancer is key; regularly checking your breasts can help you notice changes early on. Sometimes, the lump may be tender to the touch. However, not all lumps are cancerous; some may be caused by benign conditions such as cysts or fibroadenomas.
- Nipple Discharge
Finally, another sign is nipple discharge, fluid leaking from either or both nipples through the milk ducts beneath the surface. In some cases, the nipple may become inverted or pulled inward. While nipple discharge can be a sign of breast cancer, it can also be caused by other conditions, such as infections or hormonal changes.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Several diagnostic tests, including mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and biopsies, can detect breast cancer.
- Mammogram
One of the primary diagnostic tools is the mammogram, an X-ray image of the breast that can see small changes in the tissue that may indicate cancer cells. Mammograms are relatively quick, often take less than 10 minutes, and provide early detection of many cancers.
- Breast Ultrasound
These tests use high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue, allowing medical professionals to take a closer look and identify potential issues. This test is often used with a mammogram, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
- Biopsy
During a biopsy, a tissue sample from the area of concern is extracted using either fine needles or surgery and then examined under a microscope for signs of cancer cells.
The results from this procedure can provide definitive answers as to whether or not an area is malignant or benign. A microscopic examination then reveals whether the area is malignant or benign. This procedure provides definitive answers about whether cancer is present or not.
Breast Cancer Treatment
Fortunately, there are various treatments available to manage and eradicate this disease. The most common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
- Mastectomy
A mastectomy is an operation to remove the entire breast or only part of it, depending on how invasive the cancer cells may be. Breast-conserving surgery may also remove only the tumor and some nearby tissue.
- Radiation
This treatment utilizes radiation to destroy residual cancer cells that have failed to respond to other treatments. Sometimes radiation may even shrink tumors before surgery, allowing for less breast tissue to be removed during an operation if necessary by a medical professional.
- Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used alongside surgery or radiation to limit new cancer cell growth or demolish leftover tumor cells which may not have been identified before treatment. However, the side effects of chemotherapy can be significant, including hair loss, fatigue, nausea, and a weakened immune system.
Breast Cancer Prevention
While there is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk of developing this disease. Three key strategies for breast cancer prevention include regular self-exams, early detection, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Regular Self-Exams
Regular self-exams are an essential tool in the prevention of breast cancer. Women should perform a breast self-exam at least once a month to detect any lumps or changes in their breasts.
This process allows women to become familiar with their breasts and detect abnormalities early on. It is important to remember that not all lumps are cancerous, but early detection is key to successful treatment.
- Early Detection
Early detection is crucial in the fight against breast cancer, and self-exams are essential in detecting any lumps or bumps before they become more problematic. Women should have a mammogram every 1-2 years, starting at age 40 or earlier, if there is a family history of breast cancer.
This vital tool enables healthcare providers to diagnose and treat breast cancer in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective. Even if you have regular checkups, tests still need to be done to detect potential problems early on. Mammograms provide an incredibly detailed view of the inside of the breast without opening up the area itself.
- Healthy Lifestyle
Eating well (lots of fruits and vegetables), exercising regularly (sticking with moderate-intensity activities), not smoking or drinking too much alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help reduce your risk significantly.
A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are all crucial factors in reducing the risk of developing breast cancer. Women should aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and red meat.
