Breast Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

 

October is observed worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every year, around 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 600,000 patients die from it. The good news is — with awareness and early detection, this disease is largely preventable.

Breast cancer is a type of cancer in which the cells of the breast (especially the ductal or lobular cells) grow abnormally and spread uncontrollably. Although it mainly affects women, men can also develop breast cancer. It is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide. Globally, one in every eight women may develop breast cancer at some point in her life. If detected at an early stage, it can be completely cured with proper treatment.

In the beginning, the abnormal cell growth remains confined to the breast, but if left untreated, it can spread (metastasize) to other organs such as the bones, liver, or lungs. With awareness, regular screening, and timely treatment, breast cancer can be successfully managed.

Main Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer

There is no single specific cause of breast cancer, but several factors can increase the risk:

1. Genetic or Hereditary Causes

·         Having a family history of breast cancer (mother, sister, aunt).

·         Genetic mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

2. Hormonal Factors

·         Late onset of menstruation (after age 12) or late menopause (after age 50).

·         Prolonged exposure to estrogen hormones.

·         Long-term use of birth control pills or hormone therapy.

·         Prolonged use of hormone-based medications.

·         Early menstruation and delayed menopause.

3. Lifestyle and Dietary Habits

·         Consuming fatty or processed foods.

·         Lack of physical activity and obesity.

·         Smoking and alcohol consumption.

·         Unhealthy lifestyle and being overweight.

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Factors

·         Not having children or having the first child at an older age.

·         Not breastfeeding.

·         Delayed pregnancy or infertility.

·         Although the exact cause of breast cancer is not always known, awareness of these risk factors is important.

Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer

In the early stages, breast cancer often appears as a painless lump. However, some warning signs should not be ignored. If any of the following symptoms appear, consult a doctor immediately:

·         A hard lump or swelling in the breast or underarm.

·         Changes in the size or shape of the breast, or wrinkling/discoloration of the skin.

·         Nipple retraction (turning inward) or position change.

·         Discharge from the nipple (blood or milky fluid).

·         Pain or heaviness in the breast or underarm.

·         A sore or ulcer on the skin that does not heal.

Types of Breast Cancer

There are several types of breast cancer, including:

1.      Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) – Cancer confined within the breast ducts.

2.      Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) – Cancer that spreads beyond the ducts.

3.      Lobular Carcinoma – Cancer in the milk-producing lobules.

4.      Inflammatory Breast Cancer – Redness and swelling of the breast skin.

5.      Triple-Negative Breast Cancer – A complex type lacking three specific hormone receptors.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

Early detection significantly increases the success of treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:

·         Breast Self-Examination (BSE): Checking your own breasts every month.

·         Clinical Breast Examination: A trained doctor or surgeon examines the breasts. Recommended annually after age 20.

·         Mammogram (Breast X-ray): Detects very small tumors deep within the breast. Every woman above 40 should have a mammogram every 1–2 years. If there is a family history, start at age 30.

·         Ultrasound / MRI Scan: Especially useful for younger women or pregnant/breastfeeding mothers, as their breast tissue tends to be denser.

·         Biopsy: Tissue examination to confirm cancer cells.

Treatment of Breast Cancer

Treatment depends on the patient’s age, type of cancer, stage, and overall health. Common treatments include:

1.      Surgery: Removal of the cancerous part or the entire breast. In early-stage cancer, only the affected part may be removed (lumpectomy), while in advanced stages, full breast removal (mastectomy) may be necessary.

2.      Chemotherapy: Using drugs to destroy cancer cells.

3.      Radiotherapy: Using radiation to kill cancer cells.

4.      Hormone Therapy: Controlling hormones that help cancer grow.

5.      Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Modern and more precise treatment options that target specific cancer cells.

Prevention of Breast Cancer

·         Perform a breast self-exam every month.

·         Visit a doctor for a clinical check-up once a year.

·         Have regular mammograms after age 40.

·         Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

·         Avoid smoking and alcohol.

·         Breastfeed your children.

·         Avoid unnecessary hormone medications.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but if detected early, it can be completely cured. Awareness, regular screening, and a healthy lifestyle are the keys to preventing breast cancer.