Breast Cancer Explained: Causes, Symptoms and How to Prevent It.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though men can develop it as well. It occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally and form a tumor, which can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Understanding the causes, recognizing early symptoms, and adopting preventive measures can help with early detection and improve treatment outcomes.
While the exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, several factors can increase the risk of developing the disease:
1.
Genetic
Mutations
● Mutations in certain genes, especially BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. These gene mutations can be inherited, leading to a higher risk among family members.
2.
Family
History
● Having a close relative, such as a mother, sister, or daughter, who has had breast cancer increases your risk of developing the disease. However, most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
3.
Hormonal
Factors
● Hormonal imbalances and exposure to estrogen over a long period can elevate the risk of breast cancer. Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), and having children at an older age or not having children at all are linked to higher breast cancer risk.
● Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and oral contraceptives may also slightly increase breast cancer risk.
4.
Age
● The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over 50.
5. Lifestyle Factors
● Diet and Obesity: Being overweight, especially after menopause, is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer due to higher estrogen levels produced by fat tissue.
● Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise can increase the risk.
● Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol regularly raises the risk of breast cancer. The more alcohol you consume, the higher your risk.
6.Radiation Exposure
● Previous exposure to radiation therapy, especially in the chest area, increases the likelihood of developing breast cancer later in life.
6. Other Risk Factors
● Dense Breast Tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of developing breast cancer because it can be harder to detect tumors in dense tissue using mammograms.
● Benign Breast Conditions: Certain non-cancerous breast conditions, such as atypical hyperplasia, increase the risk.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Recognizing early signs of breast cancer is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:
1. Lump or Mass in the Breast
● A new lump or mass in the breast is the most common symptom of breast cancer. While most lumps are benign, any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
2. Change in Breast Size or Shape
● Unexplained changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast may indicate a problem.
3. Nipple Changes
● This includes nipple discharge (especially if bloody), nipple retraction (where the nipple turns inward), or changes in the appearance of the nipple such as scaling, redness, or thickening of the skin.
4. Breast Pain
● Although breast pain is not typically a sign of cancer, any persistent discomfort in the breast or underarm area should be checked by a doctor.
5. Swelling or Thickening
● Unexplained swelling or thickening of the breast or part of the breast, even without a distinct lump, may be a sign of breast cancer.
6. Skin Changes
● The skin over the breast may become dimpled, puckered, or develop a rash. Peau d'orange, where the skin looks like the peel of an orange, can indicate a more advanced form of breast cancer.
7. Swelling in the Lymph Nodes
● Swelling or lumps in the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone can sometimes be a sign that breast cancer has spread to these areas.
While some risk factors like age, gender, and family history cannot be changed, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer:
1. Lifestyle Changes
● Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause, increases breast cancer risk. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight.
● Stay Physically Active: Engage in regular exercise, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, to lower your breast cancer risk.
● Limit Alcohol Consumption: The more alcohol you drink, the higher your risk. Limiting alcohol to one drink per day (or less) is recommended for reducing breast cancer risk.
● Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins may help reduce cancer risk. Some studies suggest that limiting intake of processed foods and red meat can also be beneficial.
● Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Quitting can improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing cancer.
2. Breastfeeding
● Breastfeed if Possible: Breastfeeding, especially for more than one year, has been shown to slightly reduce breast cancer risk.
3. Limit Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
● If you're considering HRT to manage menopausal symptoms, use the lowest dose for the shortest duration. Long-term use of HRT has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
4. Regular Screening
● Mammograms: Regular mammogram screenings can help detect breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Women aged 50-74 are generally recommended to have a mammogram every two years, though recommendations may vary based on individual risk factors.
● Breast Self-Exams: Performing regular self-exams can help individuals become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, making it easier to detect any changes.
● Clinical Breast Exams: Regular exams performed by a healthcare professional can help in early detection.
5. Genetic Testing and Preventive Surgery
● For women with a strong family history of breast cancer or inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1 or BRCA2, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended. Women at high risk may consider preventive mastectomy (removal of healthy breasts) or ovary removal (to lower estrogen levels), both of which can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
6. Medication
● In some high-risk women, medications like tamoxifen and raloxifene are prescribed to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by blocking the effects of estrogen.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a complex disease influenced by genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. While not all cases are preventable, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, staying vigilant about breast health, and following recommended screening guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer and increase the chances of early detection. If diagnosed early, breast cancer is highly treatable, making awareness and preventive measures critical in the fight against this disease.
