Breast Cancer
Join us in the fight against breast cancer. Learn about prevention, early detection, and the latest advancements in treatment. Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time.
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Overview
- Breast cancer is a disease where abnormal breast cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors.
- It can start in the milk ducts or milk-producing lobules of the breast.
- Early-stage breast cancer (in situ) is not life-threatening, but invasive cancers can spread and become fatal.
- Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and medications.
Breast Cancer Types
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS):
- Non-invasive cancer confined to the milk ducts.
- Early detection is crucial for preventing progression.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC):
- Most common type of invasive breast cancer.
- Starts in the milk ducts and spreads to nearby tissues.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC):
- Begins in the milk-producing lobules.
- May not form a distinct lump, making it harder to detect.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of breast cancer is essential. Look out for:
- Breast lump or thickened area.
- Changes in nipple appearance: Flattening or inward turning.
- Skin color changes: Pink/red (white skin) or darker (brown/Black skin).
- Breast size, shape, or appearance changes.
- Skin dimpling or orange peel texture.
- Peeling, scaling, or flaking skin.
- Redness or pitting of breast skin.
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the factors that contribute to breast cancer:
- Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2).
- Hormonal changes.
- Age (risk increases with age).
- Family history.
- Lifestyle factors: Alcohol, obesity, radiation exposure.
Diagnosis
Early detection improves outcomes. Diagnostic methods include:
- Physical exam: Check for lumps, skin changes, and nipple abnormalities.
- Imaging tests:
- Mammogram: X-ray of breast tissue.
- Ultrasound: Sound waves to detect lumps.
- MRI: Detailed breast images.
- Biopsy: Removing tissue for lab testing.
Treatments
Tailored treatment plans based on cancer stage:
- Surgery:
- Lumpectomy: Remove tumor and surrounding tissue.
- Mastectomy: Removal of entire breast tissue.
- Breast reconstruction.
- Medications:
- Chemotherapy: Reduce mass size and prevent spread.
- Hormone therapy: Regulate hormone-sensitive cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: Destroy cancer cells.
- Targeted therapies (if applicable).
Do’s
- Stay informed about breast health.
- Seek medical attention for any changes.
- Follow recommended screenings.
Don’t
- Ignore symptoms.
- Delay seeking help.
- Disregard preventive measures.