What is Breast Cancer?
Introduction
This disease occurs due to abnormal growth in breast tissue cells. In the United States, it is the second most frequent cancer among females. The first most common cancer is skin cancer. Most importantly, everyone—not just women—can develop this disease because everyone has breast tissue regardless of gender.
The Most Common Kinds of Breast Cancer
Invasive (Infiltrating) Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
This disease affects breast tissue over the milk duct. It is the most prevalent type of breast cancer in the United States.
Lobular Breast Cancer
Mostly, it begins in the lobules that produce milk and spreads to the surrounding tissue.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
It is the second most common kind of breast cancer in the United States. Like IDC, this type begins in the milk ducts. The distinction is that DCIS does not expand beyond the milk ducts.
Symptoms
Common symptoms may include:
- A tumor that feels like a pea.
- Alterations to the appearance or feel of your nipple or breast skin.
- Skin that appears inflamed, scaly, puckered, or dimpled.
- Skin that looks darker than the rest of your breast, appears redder, or purple.
- A hard, marble-like area beneath the skin.
- Bloody or clear fluid discharge from the nipple.
Multiple Stages of Breast Cancer
Doctors determine the extent of breast cancer by classifying it into different stages.
Stage 0
The disease is contained within the milk ducts and has not spread to other parts of the body.
Stage I
Cancer cells are present in the tissue surrounding the breast.
Stage II
A tumor less than 2 cm has spread to lymph nodes beneath the arm, or a tumor larger than 5 cm has not spread, or a tumor between 2 and 5 cm has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III
Cancer has spread to nearby breast tissue and lymph nodes. This stage is also known as locally advanced breast cancer.
Stage IV
The disease has spread to other organs of the body, including the brain, bones, liver, and lungs.
Causes of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer starts when breast cells transform and grow abnormally. These cells multiply uncontrollably and form tumors. Although the exact cause is unknown, researchers have identified several factors that increase the risk.
Risk Factors
- Age 55 years or older.
- Female at birth (AFAB).
- Family history of breast cancer.
- Inherited genetic mutations, especially BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- Smoking.
- Drinking wine.
- Being overweight or obese.
- Previous radiation therapy.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), particularly involving the head, neck, or chest.
How Is Breast Cancer Treated?
Physicians may recommend several treatment options depending on the stage and condition of the patient.
Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy removes only the cancerous portion of the breast. Breast reconstruction surgery may also be performed when required.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy cancer cells and is often combined with surgery.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. In some cases, Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) may be performed during surgery.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy strengthens the body's immune system to help fight cancer.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy uses medications such as Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) to block hormones that promote cancer growth.
Each treatment is selected based on the patient's condition and the specific goal of managing the disease effectively.
Summary
Breast cancer develops when abnormal breast cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors. Early detection through regular screening and awareness of symptoms can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Understanding the different types, stages, risk factors, and treatment options helps individuals make informed healthcare decisions and seek timely medical attention.
Conclusion
A typical and uncontrollably growing breast tissue is the defining feature of breast cancer. Everyone can develop this disease regardless of gender. It carries several risk factors and may also be associated with inherited genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA2 gene. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy. Early screening remains one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer and improve treatment success.
Summary
Introduction
