A cluster or group of cancer cells also called a malignant tumor in the breast is called “Breast Cancer”. It is most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and in rare cases can be found in men as well. It is the second-leading cause of cancer-related death among women.
Breast cancer is a disease that primarily affects older, post-menopausal women. Approximately 4-6% of women under the age of 40 will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer in young women needs special consideration due to its high aggressiveness and worse clinical outcome compared to that in the older group.
Due to a variety of mutated genes, around 5–10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary. According to studies, women who take birth control pills have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than those who do not. Breast cancer risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol, taking hormone replacement therapy, getting your period before the age of 12, and entering menopause after the age of 55. In addition, having your first child after the age of 35 or not having any children at all may also raise your risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer symptoms may vary for each person. Possible signs of breast cancer include lumps on the breast, rashes around the nipples, discharge from the breast, nipple retractions, swelling, and breast pain or tenderness. If a lump is found, a mammogram or USG will be done. A biopsy is often done to check if the lump is cancerous and, if so, what type.
If the biopsy reveals cancer, more tests may be performed to determine whether the disease has spread to other parts of your body. The stage of your breast cancer, the extent to which it has spread (if it has), and the size of the tumor all play a role in deciding the kind of treatment you will require.
Many factors can influence your risk of breast cancer throughout the course of your life. Some factors, such as age or family history, cannot be changed, but you can reduce your chance of breast cancer by taking care of your health and implementing preventive steps. Breast cancer prevention includes lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, remaining physically active, eating fruits and vegetables, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake.
Therefore, early detection saves lives. Knowing about cancer facts and taking early preventative action is still the best cancer cure.
