Breast Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention – A Complete Guide
Breast cancer is one of the most widespread types of cancer, primarily affecting women, although it can also occur in men. Thanks to medical advancements and increasing awareness, the outcomes for people diagnosed with breast cancer have significantly improved in recent years.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about breast cancer – including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and ways to prevent it – with real-world examples for better understanding.
What Exactly Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow out of control, forming a mass of tissue known as a tumor. These cancerous cells can invade nearby tissues and even spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems.
Types of Breast Cancer:
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Ductal Carcinoma: Starts in the milk ducts (most common).
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Lobular Carcinoma: Begins in the lobules (milk-producing glands).
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Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare but aggressive form.
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Triple-negative Breast Cancer: Lacks three common receptors (ER, PR, HER2) and is harder to treat.
Example:
A 45-year-old woman feels a painless lump in her right breast while showering. She schedules a mammogram and a biopsy, which confirms invasive ductal carcinoma – the most common type of breast cancer.
Why Does Breast Cancer Happen? (Causes and Risk Factors)
Breast cancer results from genetic mutations or changes in the DNA of breast cells, which affect how cells grow and divide.
Common Causes and Risk Factors:
a. Genetic Mutations
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Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the lifetime risk of breast cancer.
Example: Angelina Jolie underwent a preventive double mastectomy after testing positive for a BRCA1 mutation.
b. Hormonal Influence
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Prolonged exposure to estrogen and progesterone, such as early menstruation or late menopause, can elevate risk.
c. Family History
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Having a mother, sister, or daughter with breast cancer raises the risk.
d. Lifestyle Choices
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Obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption, and poor diet can increase breast cancer risk.
e. Radiation Exposure
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Previous radiation therapy to the chest area (especially during childhood or adolescence) can be a factor.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early detection is crucial, as many breast cancers don't cause noticeable symptoms at first. However, as the tumor grows, certain signs may appear.
Common Symptoms Include:
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A lump in the breast or underarm
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Change in breast shape or size
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Nipple inversion (turning inward)
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Discharge from the nipple (especially bloody)
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Dimpling or puckering of the skin
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Redness or flaking of the nipple or breast skin
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Pain in any part of the breast (though not always)
Example:
A woman notices her left breast is unusually swollen and red. She also finds the nipple has become inverted. A mammogram and biopsy confirm inflammatory breast cancer.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
a. Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
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Done monthly at home to check for lumps or changes.
b. Clinical Breast Exam
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A physical exam by a doctor to detect lumps or abnormalities.
c. Mammogram
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A low-dose X-ray that can detect tumors before symptoms appear. Women over 40 are generally advised to have yearly mammograms.
Example: A 52-year-old woman with no symptoms has a routine mammogram, which reveals a small mass. A biopsy confirms early-stage breast cancer.
d. Ultrasound and MRI
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Used to get a more detailed view of suspicious areas.
e. Biopsy
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A small tissue sample is taken from the breast and tested in a lab to confirm if it's cancerous.
How to Prevent Breast Cancer
While not all cases can be prevented, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
a. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
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Exercise at least 30 minutes most days.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
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Limit alcohol (no more than one drink per day).
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Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
b. Breastfeeding
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Breastfeeding for at least 6 months may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
c. Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
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If used, take the lowest dose for the shortest time.
d. Regular Screening
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Start annual mammograms by age 40 or earlier if you have risk factors.
e. Genetic Testing
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Women with a family history should consider testing for BRCA1/2 or other gene mutations.
Example: A woman with a strong family history of breast cancer undergoes genetic testing and learns she has a BRCA2 mutation. After consulting with doctors, she opts for enhanced screening every six months and makes lifestyle adjustments to reduce her risk.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a serious but increasingly treatable condition, especially when caught early. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and committing to regular screening can save lives.
If you or someone you know notices unusual changes in the breast, don’t wait – consult a healthcare provider immediately. Breast cancer is not a death sentence when managed early with the right information and support.
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