In 2022, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 670,000 deaths globally. Breast cancer occurs in every country of the world in women at any age after puberty but with increasing rates in later life. It is crucial during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to shed light on the disease, helping individuals become more informed and proactive.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, and understanding it is key to promoting early detection and improving survival rates. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what breast cancer is, its causes, symptoms, and risk factors.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumor. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumors can potentially spread to other body parts, making early detection crucial.
There are different types of breast cancer with the less common types including inflammatory breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer. The most common ones include:
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Cancer cells form in the milk ducts but haven’t spread to nearby tissue.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): Cancer cells start in the ducts and spread to surrounding breast tissue.
3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Cancer begins in the milk-producing lobules and can spread to other tissues.
Causes of Breast Cancer
While the exact cause of breast cancer isn’t always clear, certain factors can increase the risk. These factors can be genetic, environmental, or lifestyle-related.
Genetic Factors
About 5–10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with these mutations have a higher risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
Hormonal Influence
Hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, can fuel certain breast cancers. That is why long-term exposure to these hormones, such as early menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55), can increase the risk.
Breastfeeding, especially for over 1 year, appears to reduce the chance of developing breast cancer, possibly because pregnancy followed by breastfeeding reduces exposure to estrogen.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices such as diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and radiation exposure can influence breast cancer risk. For instance, women who drink alcohol regularly or are overweight after menopause may have a higher risk.
Women who are overweight or have obesity after menopause may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, possibly due to higher levels of estrogen. High sugar intake may also be a factor.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Recognizing the symptoms of breast cancer early on can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, significantly improving survival chances. While it’s important to note that not every symptom of breast cancer is caused by cancer, any noticeable change in your breast health should prompt a visit to the doctor for a thorough evaluation. Below are some of the key symptoms of breast cancer:
Lump in the Breast or Underarm
One of the most common early signs of breast cancer is a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area. This lump might feel different from the surrounding breast tissue it could be hard, painless, and have irregular edges, although some cancerous lumps can be soft or tender.
Lumps caused by breast cancer do not fluctuate in size or tenderness about your menstrual cycle, making them different from benign cysts. It’s essential to get any new or unusual lumps checked by a healthcare professional to rule out cancer or begin treatment promptly if necessary.
Changes in Breast Shape or Size
Sudden changes in the shape or size of one breast may be a sign of breast cancer. This can happen even if there’s no obvious lump. Cancerous growths can alter the structure of breast tissue, leading to noticeable differences between the breasts.
If you observe one breast becoming larger, swollen, or changing in contour without apparent cause, it’s important to seek medical advice. While breast size may fluctuate due to hormonal changes, any unexplained or persistent change should be investigated further.
Dimpling or Puckering of the Skin
A less commonly known symptom of breast cancer is skin dimpling or puckering. The skin on the breast may begin to look like the texture of an orange peel referred to as peau d’orange, which can happen when a tumor pulls on the connective tissue of the breast.
This dimpling may indicate an underlying tumor or invasive breast cancer that is affecting nearby tissue and skin. If you notice any dimpling or pulling of the skin on your breast, it’s essential to have it checked by a doctor.
Nipple Discharge
Nipple discharge, particularly if it is bloody or occurs without squeezing the nipple, can be a warning sign of breast cancer. While many types of discharge are harmless and linked to non-cancerous conditions like infections or benign tumors, discharge that is clear, red, or bloody may suggest the presence of cancer, especially if it’s only coming from one breast. Discharge and other symptoms such as lumps or skin changes should be taken seriously.
Inverted Nipple
While some people naturally have inverted or flat nipples, a nipple that suddenly inverts or flattens when it previously did not could be a sign of breast cancer. This can happen when a tumor is growing behind the nipple, pulling it inward.
Sudden changes in nipple appearance, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms, should warrant a doctor’s attention. Nipple retraction is often an early sign of breast cancer and should not be ignored.
Redness or Thickening of the Breast Skin
Inflammatory breast cancer, a more aggressive form of breast cancer, may cause noticeable changes to the skin on the breast. The skin may appear red, and swollen, and feel warm to the touch. It may also become thickened, similar to the texture of an orange peel, and the breast may feel heavier or tender.
Unlike other types of breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer might not cause a distinct lump, which makes it more difficult to detect through routine self-exams or mammograms. The changes often happen rapidly, and it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention if you notice these symptoms, as inflammatory breast cancer progresses quickly and requires prompt treatment.
In Summary
Breast cancer is a global health concern affecting millions of women. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection can significantly improve survival rates.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, spreading knowledge and encouraging women to stay informed and vigilant is vital. Let’s continue to promote education and support those impacted by this disease.
