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Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. It has a profound effect not only physically but also mentally, on family and socially. According to the World Health Organization, millions of women are affected by this disease every year. Breast cancer cases are also increasing continuously in America.
The biggest challenge of this disease is that its early symptoms are often ignored, resulting in a late diagnosis, and treatment becomes difficult.
In this blog, we will understand in detail the major symptoms, early signs, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention measures of breast cancer.
➡What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a condition of abnormal growth in the cells of the breasts. These cells form tumors and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Breast cancer can mainly start in two ways:
✅Ductal cancer: -It starts in the ducts carrying milk.
✅Lobular cancer: – It starts in the milk-producing glands.
➡Main symptoms of breast cancer
✅Breast lump
It is the most common and early symptom of breast cancer.
The lump is often hard, irregular in shape, and does not cause pain when pressed.
It can occur in one breast or both.
✅ Change in breast size and shape
The size of one breast suddenly seems bigger or smaller.
The skin of the breast starts shrinking, or pits start appearing in it.
✅ Change in nipple
The nipple sinks inward.
Blood or milk-like liquid starts coming out of the nipple.
Itching, burning, or scabbing starts forming on the skin of the nipple.
✅ Skin changes
The skin of the breast becomes red, thick, or orange-peel-like.
Rash, wounds, or swelling start appearing on the skin.
✅ Pain and abnormal sensations
Generally, breast cancer lumps do not cause pain, but pain may occur if they grow further.
There may be a constant feeling of heaviness or burning in the breast or armpit.
✅ Lump or swelling in the armpit
Cancer cells reach the lymph nodes.
A hard lump or swelling appears in the armpit.
✅Effects on the body
Fatigue and weakness.
Sudden weight loss.
Loss of appetite.
Feeling like a fever constantly.
➡Early symptoms that should not be ignored
Mild lump or hardness in the breast.
Abnormal discharge from the nipple.
Pain or swelling in the breast even after menstruation.
Change in the color of the skin of the breast.
➡Causes and risk factors of breast cancer
✅ Genetic factors
If someone in the family has had breast cancer, the risk is higher.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the major causes.
✅ Lifestyle causes
Unbalanced diet, excessive junk food and alcohol consumption.
Lack of physical activity.
Obesity and hormonal imbalance.
✅ Hormonal causes
Giving birth too late.
Long-term intake of hormonal pills.
Early onset or late cessation of menstruation.
✅ Other causes
Aging.
Radiation exposure.
Stress and an unhealthy lifestyle.
➡Diagnosis of breast cancer
Mammography – Most effective for early detection.
Ultrasound – To understand the nature of the lump.
Biopsy – To confirm cancer cells.
MRI and CT Scan – To understand the spread of cancer.
➡Stages of breast cancer
✅ Stage 0 – Limited to the milk ducts only.
✅ Stage I – The cancer is small and confined to a limited area.
✅ Stage II – The cancer has grown and spread to nearby lymph nodes.
✅ Stage III – The cancer has spread to surrounding tissues.
✅ Stage IV – The cancer has spread to other parts of the body (such as bones, lungs, liver).
➡Breast cancer treatment
✅ Surgery
The tumor or the entire breast may be removed.
✅ Chemotherapy
Medicines are used to destroy cancer cells.
✅ Radiotherapy
Use of high-energy rays.
✅ Hormone therapy
Treatment of hormone-sensitive cancers.
✅ Targeted therapy and immunotherapy
Treatment by precisely targeting cancer cells.
➡Measures to prevent breast cancer
Take a balanced diet, including green vegetables and fruits.
Exercise regularly.
Stay away from alcohol and smoking.
Do breast self-examination monthly.
Get regular mammography done after the age of 40.
Reduce stress and do yoga/meditation.
➡Mental health and breast cancer
Cancer affects not only the body but also the mind.
The patient needs the support of the family, positive thinking, and mental support.
It is beneficial to join counseling and support groups.
➡Conclusion
Breast cancer is a serious problem, but it is a disease that can be controlled with timely identification and proper treatment.
Every woman and family needs to understand their symptoms and not ignore them.
If it is detected in the early stage, then it is possible to live a normal life after treatment.
