Symptoms Of Breast Cancer: Causes, Types And Treatment

Most People Are Interested In Learning About The Symptoms Of Breast Cancer And Causes Of Breast Cancer And The Surgical Treatment Options Available. What is breast cancer ? Breast cancer starts when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow abnormally. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer found in women in the World . But breast cancer isn't limited to just women. Since everyone has some breast tissue, anyone can develop breast cancer.

Fortunately, survival rates for breast cancer have been increasing, and fewer people are dying from it. This is largely because of widespread awareness about breast cancer and funding for research.

Improved screening methods for breast cancer help doctors diagnose it earlier. Catching the cancer early greatly increases the chances of curing it. Even when a cure isn't possible, there are many treatments available to prolong life. Ongoing research into breast cancer is leading to better treatment options. Early detection starts with recognizing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

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What Is Breast Cancer ?

Breast cancer is a common types of Breast Cancer that affects women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). It occurs when cancer cells in the breasts multiply and form tumors. Around 80% of breast cancer cases are invasive, meaning the tumor can spread to other parts of the body.

Although breast cancer mainly affects women aged 50 and older, it can also occur in younger women and AFAB individuals under 50. Men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) can also develop breast cancer. Breast cancers are grouped based on specific proteins or genes they produce. After a biopsy, doctors test breast cancer cells for proteins like estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors, as well as the HER2 gene or protein.Educating yourself about the symptoms of breast cancer is the first step towards prioritizing your breast health. Breast cancer surgery plays a crucial role in the treatment of early-stage and locally advanced breast cancer.
 

There are different Types of Breast Cancer, including:

• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): This cancer begins in the milk ducts and can spread to nearby breast tissue. It's the most common type in the United States.
• Lobular breast cancer: This cancer starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and often spreads to nearby tissue.
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Similar to IDC, but it doesn't spread beyond the milk ducts.

Less common types include triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), and Paget’s disease of the breast. While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. For many patients, breast cancer surgery is the first line of treatment, aimed at removing cancerous tissue and preventing the spread of the disease. Understanding the stages of breast cancer is vital for determining the appropriate treatment approach and predicting prognosis.

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Breast cancer subtypes are classified based on receptor cell status, which helps determine treatment options:

• ER-positive (ER+) breast cancers have estrogen receptors.
• PR-positive (PR+) breast cancers have progesterone receptors.
• HR-positive (HR+) breast cancers have both estrogen and progesterone receptors.
• HR-negative (HR-) breast cancers lack estrogen and progesterone receptors.
• HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancers have high levels of the HER2 protein, promoting cancer cell growth.

Being aware of the symptoms of breast cancer empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.The Types of Breast Cancer are based on which breast cells turn into cancer .Breast cancer surgery is often followed by adjuvant therapies like radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence .

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can show various symptoms, especially in later stages. But in the early stages, many people won't notice any symptoms. The stages of breast cancer range from stage 0 to stage IV, with each stage representing different levels of cancer progression and spread.

Symptoms of breast cancer can include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast, usually painless
• Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance
• Skin changes like dimpling, redness, or puckering
• Changes in nipple appearance or surrounding skin
• Unusual fluid from the nipple, sometimes bloody

If you find an unusual lump in your breast, it's important to see a doctor, even if it doesn't hurt. While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. 

Most breast lumps aren't cancerous. But if they are, they're more treatable when found early and still small. Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer allows individuals to promptly seek medical advice and necessary screenings. Patients undergoing breast cancer surgery should discuss their options thoroughly with their healthcare team to make informed decisions tailored to their individual needs and preferences .

Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body, causing new symptoms like bone pain or headaches. Often, it first spreads to the lymph nodes under the arm, which may not be felt until later.
 

Where breast cancer begins

Breast cancer can begin in different parts of the breast. The breast is made up of glands, ducts, and fatty tissue, and each breast has lobules, ducts, and other structures.

Here's where breast cancer can start:

• Lobules: These are glands that produce breast milk. Cancer that starts here is called lobular cancer.
• Ducts: These are small canals that carry milk to the nipple. Breast cancer commonly starts here and is called ductal cancer.
• Nipple: This is the opening in the skin where milk leaves the breast. Paget disease of the breast, a less common type of breast cancer, can start here.
• Surrounding tissue: Fat and connective tissue surround the glands and ducts. A type of breast cancer called phyllodes tumor can start here.
• Blood and lymph vessels: Angiosarcoma, a rare type of breast cancer, can start in the lining of these vessels.
• Other tissues: A small number of breast cancers start in other breast tissues, such as sarcomas and lymphomas. These are not considered typical breast cancers.

How Can Breast Cancer Spread ?

Breast cancer can spread when cancer cells enter the blood or lymph system and travel to other parts of the body. While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. 

The lymph system is part of the body's immune system and consists of lymph nodes, vessels, and organs that carry clear lymph fluid throughout the body. This fluid contains waste material and immune system cells.
The lymph vessels transport fluid away from the breast. In breast cancer, cancer cells can enter these vessels and grow in nearby lymph nodes. Most lymph vessels from the breast drain into lymph nodes under the arm, inside the chest near the breastbone, and around the collarbone. Awareness of the symptoms of breast cancer is key to promoting early detection and improving survival rates

If cancer cells reach the lymph nodes, there's a higher chance they could have spread to other parts of the body. However, not all women with cancer cells in their lymph nodes develop metastases, and some without cancer cells in their lymph nodes may develop metastases later on. Breast cancer surgery plays a crucial role in the treatment of early-stage and locally advanced breast cancer. Stages of Breast Cancer provides valuable information for patients and healthcare providers alike, guiding treatment decisions and offering insight into the prognosis and overall management of the disease.
 

What Are The Causes Of Breast Cancer ?

As you want to know what are the causes of breast cancer ? The exact causes of breast cancer is unknown. Researchers have identified factors that increase the risk of breast cancer, including hormones, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. However, it remains unclear why some individuals develop cancer despite having no risk factors, while others with risk factors never do. It's believed that breast cancer develops due to a complex interplay between genetics and the environment.

Healthcare professionals understand that breast cancer begins when changes occur in the DNA of cells within the breast tissue. DNA contains instructions that regulate cell growth, multiplication, and death. In healthy cells, these instructions are followed properly. However, in cancer cells, DNA changes lead to abnormal instructions, causing rapid cell growth and the ability to survive beyond the normal lifespan. This results in the accumulation of too many cells.

Cancer cells may form a mass known as a tumor, which can invade and damage nearby healthy tissues. Over time, cancer cells can break away from the tumor and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. 

The most common DNA changes leading to breast cancer occur in the cells lining the milk ducts, which are responsible for transporting milk to the nipple. Breast cancer originating in the ducts is called invasive ductal carcinoma. Additionally, cancer can develop in the cells of the milk-producing glands, known as lobules, resulting in invasive lobular carcinoma. While it's possible for other cells in the breast to become cancerous, this occurrence is uncommon. Being informed about the symptoms of breast cancer enables individuals to advocate for their health during medical appointments.

Factors that might raise the chance of having breast cancer include (RISKS):

• Family history: If a close relative like a parent, sibling, or child had breast cancer, your risk goes up. This risk is higher if they had it at a young age or if multiple family members had it. However, most people diagnosed with breast cancer don't have a family history of it.
• Previous breast cancer: If you've had cancer in one breast before, you're more likely to get it in the other breast.
• Breast conditions: Some breast conditions like lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or atypical hyperplasia can increase the risk of breast cancer if found during a breast biopsy.
• Early periods: Starting your period before age 12 might increase your risk.
• Late menopause: Menopause after age 55 could raise your risk.
• Gender: Women are much more likely to get breast cancer than men.
• Dense breast tissue: Having more dense tissue than fatty tissue in your breasts can make it harder to detect breast cancer with a mammogram, increasing the risk.
• Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Age of first childbirth: Having your first child after age 30 might raise your risk.
• Never being pregnant: Not having been pregnant increases the risk.
• Aging: The risk increases as you get older.
• Inherited DNA changes: Certain DNA changes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 passed from parents can greatly increase the risk.
• Hormone therapy: Taking certain hormone medicines during menopause might increase the risk, especially those combining estrogen and progesterone.
• Obesity: Being obese can increase the risk.
• Radiation exposure: If you had radiation therapy to your chest as a child or young adult, your risk may be higher.

Reduce Your Chances of Getting Breast Cancer

Here are some lifestyle changes that might help lower your risk of breast cancer:

• Talk to your doctor about breast cancer screening: Discuss when to start screening and the benefits and risks of different tests with your healthcare provider.
• Be aware of your breasts: Get to know how your breasts normally look and feel by doing occasional self-exams. Report any changes or unusual findings to your doctor.
• Limit alcohol intake: If you drink alcohol, keep it to a moderate amount, ideally no more than one drink per day. It's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're worried about breast cancer.
• Stay active: Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Start slowly if you're not used to being active and gradually increase your activity level.
• Consider hormone therapy carefully: Combination hormone therapy during menopause may increase breast cancer risk. Talk to your doctor about whether the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the risks for you.
• Maintain a healthy weight: If you're at a healthy weight, work to keep it stable. If you need to lose weight, ask your doctor for advice on healthy ways to do so, such as eating fewer calories and increasing physical activity.

Breast cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Doctors use different treatments to lower the chance of cancer coming back. These include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor from the breast
• Radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells
• Medications like hormones, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies to kill cancer cells and stop them from spreading

Treatment for Breast Cancer

• Treatment for Breast Cancer works best when started early and finished completely.
• Surgery can remove either the tumor (lumpectomy) or the whole breast (mastectomy). Sometimes, lymph nodes are removed to check if the cancer has spread.
• Radiation therapy targets any remaining cancer cells in the breast or lymph nodes.
• In advanced cases, cancer might cause open sores on the skin. Women with wounds that don't heal should see a doctor. Access to timely and appropriate Treatment for Breast Cancer significantly improves the chances of successful outcomes .
• Medicines for breast cancer are chosen based on the type of cancer. Most of these drugs are already on the WHO Essential Medicines List.
• Lymph nodes are often removed during surgery. A newer method called "sentinel node biopsy" is preferred as it has fewer complications.
• Medical treatments, given before or after surgery, depend on the type of cancer. Hormone therapies like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are used for hormone-positive cancers. Chemotherapy is used for hormone-negative cancers.
• Some cancers overexpress a molecule called HER-2. These cancers can be treated with targeted therapies like trastuzumab, often combined with chemotherapy.
• Radiotherapy is crucial for treating breast cancer. It can prevent mastectomy in early-stage cancers and reduce the risk of recurrence in later stages.
• Completing the full course of treatment is important for the best outcome. Incomplete treatment may not be as effective.
   

The treatment of breast cancer often includes a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Choosing the most appropriate treatment for breast cancer requires careful consideration of the individual's medical history, preferences, and goals . While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. 
 

Options to Lower Your Risk

If you're at a high risk of breast cancer, there are options to lower your risk. High risk could be due to family history or previous precancerous cells in the breast tissue. Discuss with your healthcare team to understand your risk and options:

• Preventive Medicines: These include estrogen-blocking drugs that can reduce breast cancer risk. They're typically used for those with very high risk. However, they can have side effects, so weigh the pros and cons with your healthcare team.
• Preventive Surgery: For those with a very high risk, surgery might be an option. This could involve removing the breasts (prophylactic mastectomy) or ovaries (prophylactic oophorectomy). These surgeries lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breast cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While significant progress has been made in understanding and treating breast cancer, there is still much work to be done. Early detection through screening and awareness campaigns remains crucial in improving outcomes for patients. Additionally, advancements in treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and targeted medications, offer hope for those diagnosed with breast cancer. However, it is essential to continue advocating for research funding, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and providing support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Together, we can strive towards a future where breast cancer is no longer a life-threatening illness. While there isn't a single cure for breast cancer, advancements in medical research have led to highly effective treatments that can lead to remission and long-term survival. 
 

Felix support 

For years, Felix Hospital's specialized breast cancer hospital has been a top choice for women seeking care. Today, we take pride in our reputation for excellence, integrity, and successful outcomes. Our dedicated team of experienced oncologists, radiologists, nurses, and support staff are equipped with the latest technology and facilities. We are committed to delivering exceptional treatment in a compassionate environment. Our expert oncologists are here to support you every step of the way, tailoring care to meet your individual needs and goals. To schedule a consultation with our breast cancer specialists, contact Felix Hospital today at +91 9667064100.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer

What is breast cancer?

Ans. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breast tissue. It can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in women.

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

Ans. Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), hormonal factors, obesity, alcohol consumption, and certain reproductive factors.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Ans. Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or mass in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, skin changes on the breast or nipple, and breast pain.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Ans. Breast cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests (such as mammograms, ultrasound, and MRI) and biopsy, where a sample of tissue is taken from the breast for examination under a microscope.

What are the treatment options for breast cancer?

Ans. Treatment for breast cancer may include surgery (such as lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage and subtype of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

Can breast cancer be prevented?

Ans. While not all cases of breast cancer can be prevented, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, being physically active, breastfeeding, and avoiding exposure to radiation and environmental pollutants.

What is the prognosis for breast cancer?

Ans. The prognosis for breast cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, the subtype of the cancer, and how early it is diagnosed. With advances in treatment, many people with breast cancer are able to survive and live long, healthy lives.

Is genetic testing available for breast cancer?

Ans. Yes, genetic testing can help identify individuals who may be at increased risk for breast cancer due to inherited genetic mutations. This can help guide screening and prevention strategies for those at higher risk.

How often should women undergo breast cancer screening?

Ans. The recommended frequency of breast cancer screening varies depending on factors such as age, family history, and personal risk factors. In general, mammograms are recommended every 1-2 years for women aged 40 and older, but individual recommendations may vary.

Where can I find support and resources for breast cancer?

Ans. There are many organizations and support groups that provide information, support, and resources for individuals affected by breast cancer, including the American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and Susan G. Komen Foundation. Additionally, healthcare providers and cancer treatment centers often offer support services for patients and their families.