Breast cancer: Breast cancer is commonly found in females. It can be affected one out of ten females in the western world. It is a serious problem of breast tissue and about 20% of females with this disease will die. Men are also affected by this disease. This cancer is not transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. Bruising, bumping, and touching are not the causes of this disease.
Causes of breast cancer:
Family history: A woman easily getting breast cancer, if her sister, mother, or daughter had already breast cancer. There is a chances increase in risk if her sister, mother, and daughter had this disease under age 35.
Genes: There are main two genes — BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. If there are any changes occur in these genes then the risk of breast cancer may be increased. Some ways will be suggested by the doctor to reduce breast cancer. Specific tests may be performed by the doctor to check the changes in genes.
Personal history of breast cancer: If a woman had breast cancer in only one breast, then there are chances to increase risk of cancer development in another breast.
Symptoms:
- Nipple tenderness
- Lump in the breast
- Changes in shape and size of the breast
- The affected area may be red in color, scaly and swollen
- Nipple drain fluid
- Pain in the breast.
Diagnosis:
Family medical history and personal history will be asked by the health care provider to diagnose the disease. Mammogram tests and physical examination tests may recommend by the doctor. A biopsy test may help to look for cancer cells. Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, surgical biopsy are used to diagnose breast cancer.
Treatment:
Surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy are effective and used to reduce breast cancer. Choice of methods of treatment depends on the causes, symptoms, and stages of breast cancer.
Local therapy: Local therapies include radiation therapy and surgery. They are effective and help in removing cancer from the breast. Local therapy is good to control cancer in the other parts of the body.
Systemic therapy: Systemic therapies include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and biological therapy to reduce cancer. These therapies control cancer and shrink the tumor.
Before starting any treatment, your health care provider will give the information about the side effects of the treatment and give suggestions on how to reduce the side effects. You should also get a second opinion before start treatment. In the second opinion, insurance companies maintain the pathology report, planning of treatment, biopsy slides, and mammogram films.
FAQs
Q: What is breast cancer?
A: Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the breast tissue. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide, but it can also occur in men.
Q: What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
A: The symptoms of breast cancer can vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area, a change in the size or shape of the breast, discharge from the nipple, changes in the skin over the breast, and a newly inverted nipple.
Q: What causes breast cancer?
A: The exact cause of breast cancer is not known, but there are several factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing the disease, including age, gender, family history, genetic mutations, hormonal factors, and lifestyle factors.
Q: How is breast cancer treated?
A: The treatment options for breast cancer depend on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and other individual factors. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy.
Q: Can breast cancer be prevented?
A: While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are several things you can do to lower your risk, including maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, breastfeeding, and having regular breast exams and mammograms.
Q: Who is at risk for breast cancer?
A: Women over the age of 50, those with a family history of breast cancer, and those with certain genetic mutations are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, breast cancer can occur in anyone, regardless of age, gender, or family history.
Q: How is breast cancer diagnosed?
A: Breast cancer can be diagnosed through a mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy. If a lump or other abnormality is detected during a breast exam or imaging test, a biopsy may be performed to determine if it is cancerous.
Q: Is breast cancer curable?
A: The prognosis for breast cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other individual factors. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes, and many women are able to overcome breast cancer and live long, healthy lives.
Q: What should I do if I notice a change in my breast?
A: If you notice any changes in your breast, such as a lump or thickening, changes in the skin or nipple, or discharge from the nipple, it is important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Early detection is key to successful treatment of breast cancer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for breast cancer can help individuals take proactive steps to reduce their risk and detect the disease early. Breast cancer can be a challenging diagnosis, but with early detection and the appropriate treatment, many women are able to overcome this disease and live long, healthy lives.
Also read:
