Breast cancer

Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) growth that develops in the cells of the breast tissue, most commonly in the ducts or lobules. It can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Causes / Risk Factors:

1. Genetic factors – Family history, BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations

2. Hormonal factors – Early menstruation, late menopause, hormone therapy

3. Age – Risk increases with age

4. Lifestyle factors – Obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol use, smoking

5. Reproductive factors – Having first child after 30 or never having children

6. Radiation exposure

Signs and Symptoms:

• Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm

• Change in size or shape of the breast

• Nipple discharge (sometimes bloody)

• Inverted nipple

• Skin changes (dimpling, redness, or “orange peel” texture)

• Pain in the breast (sometimes)

Diagnosis:

• Breast self-examination (BSE)

• Clinical breast examination (CBE)

• Mammography

• Ultrasound or MRI

• Biopsy (to confirm cancer cells)

Treatment:

• Surgery – Lumpectomy, mastectomy

• Radiation therapy

• Chemotherapy

• Hormone therapy

• Targeted therapy

Prevention:

• Regular self and clinical breast exams

• Maintain healthy weight and lifestyle

• Avoid smoking and alcohol

• Breastfeed if possible

• Genetic testing for high-risk women