Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. While it can occur in both men and women, it is far more common in women. The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but it’s known that breast cancer occurs when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally.
These cells divide more rapidly than healthy ones do and continue to accumulate, forming a lump or mass. They may spread (metastasize) through your breast to your lymph nodes or to other parts of your body.
Breast cancer most often begins with cells in the milk-producing ducts (invasive ductal carcinoma). It may also begin in the glandular tissue called lobules (invasive lobular carcinoma) or in other cells or tissue within the breast.
There are different stages of breast cancer, and treatment will often depend on the stage at diagnosis. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.
Risk factors for breast cancer include age, being female, exposure to estrogen, having a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer, certain breast changes, having never been pregnant, obesity, alcohol consumption, radiation exposure, hormone replacement therapy, and others.
To help reduce your risk of breast cancer, it is recommended to maintain a healthy weight, be physically active, breastfeed if possible, limit exposure to hormones, limit alcohol intake, and undergo regular checks and screenings for early detection.
Causes of Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer is a complex disease with multiple causes, and it’s important to note that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a woman will develop the disease. Here are some potential causes:
1. Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Most invasive breast cancers are found in women aged 55 and older.
2. Family History: Women with close relatives (like a mother, sister, or daughter) who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer have a higher risk.
3. Genetic Mutations: Certain inherited mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly elevate a woman’s risk of breast cancer.
4. Early Menstruation or Late Menopause: Women who start menstruating before age 12 or who go through menopause after age 55 are exposed to hormones longer, raising the risk slightly.
5. Having Never Given Birth or Late Births: Women who have never given birth or who had their first child after age 30 may have a slightly higher breast cancer risk.
6. Breast Density: Women with dense breasts have a higher risk as there are more tissue cells that could potentially turn into cancer.
7. Previous Radiotherapy Treatment: If a woman has had radiotherapy to the chest for another disease (like Hodgkin’s lymphoma), she has a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
8. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Some forms of HRT used during menopause can raise the risk of breast cancer.
9. Obesity: Post-menopausal women who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk.
10. Alcohol: Consuming alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer. The more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk.
11. A Personal History of Breast Conditions: Certain benign (non-cancer) breast conditions might increase the risk of getting breast cancer.
While these factors can contribute to the risk, many women with these risk factors never develop breast cancer, and some women without any of these risk factors do. Regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce overall risk.
Risk Factors of Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer risk factors for women can be categorized into factors that can’t be changed (unchangeable factors) and those can be changed (lifestyle-related factors):
Unchangeable Factors:
1. Gender: Women are more prone to breast cancer than men due to the higher levels of estrogen and progesterone in their bodies.
2. Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Most advanced cases are found in women over 50 years old.
3. Family history: If a woman has close relatives (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) with breast or ovarian cancer, her risk of developing breast cancer may be higher.
4. Genes: Certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, increase the risk of breast cancer.
5. Personal history: If a woman has had breast cancer in the past, she is more likely to get it again than someone who has no history.
6. Radiation exposure: Women who have had radiation therapy to the chest area as treatment for another cancer have a significantly increased risk for breast cancer.
7. Breast changes: Certain types of benign (not cancerous) breast disease or certain breast changes seen on a biopsy can increase risk.
8. Menstrual history: Women who got their periods early (before age 12) or went through menopause late (after age 55) have an increased risk for breast cancer.
Lifestyle-related Factors:
1. Childbearing and breastfeeding: Women who have not had children or who had their first child after age 35 have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.
2. Hormone therapy after menopause: Estrogen-progestin hormone replacement therapy has been found to increase breast cancer risk.
3. Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol is linked to increased risk of breast cancer. The risk increases the more alcohol a woman drinks.
4. Obesity: Being overweight or obese after menopause or due to weight gain as an adult can increase breast cancer risk.
5. Physical activity: Women who are physically inactive have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
6. Diet: Some evidence suggests a link between diet and breast cancer risk, but this relationship is complex and not fully understood.
Remember, having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a woman will get breast cancer. Many women who have risk factors never develop the disease. It’s important to discuss these factors with a healthcare provider to better understand personal risk. Regular mammograms or other screenings can be crucial for early detection.
Signs and Symptoms of Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer can present in a variety of ways, and the symptoms may differ from person to person. But here are most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer in females:
1. A lump or swelling in the breast, which is often painless. This is the most common symptom.
2. Pain in the breast or armpit that is not related to menstrual cycle.
3. A change in the size, shape, or feel of the breast or nipple, such as having an indented, inverted, flattened, or retracted nipple.
4. A rash on or around the nipple.
5. Unusual discharge from the nipple, may be bloody.
6. Skin changes on the breast – the skin may appear dimpled or puckered, similar to the skin of an orange.
7. Changes in the appearance of the skin on the breasts, like redness, scaling, thickening or inflammation.
8. A lump or swelling in the armpit.
If you notice any changes or are concerned about possible symptoms, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Remember, it’s possible to have one or more of these symptoms and not have breast cancer. Many existing conditions can cause similar symptoms, but it’s always best to get checked and be safe.
Diagnosis Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer in females is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the breasts. It happens when some breast cells start to grow abnormally and multiply faster than normal cells, eventually forming a lump or mass. There are different types of breast cancer, and they are classified based on which cells in the breast turn into cancer.
The first category is non-invasive or in situ breast cancer, where the cancer cells have not spread into surrounding tissue or other parts of the body. Two types exist under this category: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS).
The second category is invasive or infiltrating breast cancer, which means the cancer has infiltrated healthy surrounding tissue. Again, this is further classified into invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC).
Factors such as a personal or family history of breast cancer, a gene mutation, or certain genetic syndromes can increase the risk of breast cancer. Older age, having a first child after age 30, start of the menstrual cycle at a younger age, starting menopause at an older age, or certain treatments using radiation therapy to the chest or breasts also increase the risk.
Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast or armpit, breast pain or tenderness, changes in breast shape, nipple discharge (other than breast milk), or changes in skin over the breast.
Detection methods include mammographic screening and breast self-examination. If breast cancer is suspected, a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options are wide-ranging and include surgery, radiation treatment, hormonal and targeted therapies, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
Treatment of Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer treatment typically depends on the type of cancer, its stage, size, and whether or not it has spread to other parts of the body. Generally, treatment may involve one or a combination of the following:
1. Surgery: This is often the first treatment used for breast cancer. A surgical procedure may be used to remove the tumor and nearby tissues. There might be a total mastectomy, where the entire breast is removed, or a lumpectomy, where only the tumor and surrounding tissue are taken out. Sometimes, the lymph nodes under the arm are also removed.
2. Radiation Therapy: This uses high-energy rays, similar to X-rays, to kill cancer cells. It targets those cells that may still be present in the breast, chest wall, or underarm area after surgery.
3. Chemotherapy: A systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the entire body. It can be given intravenously (IV) or orally.
4. Hormone Therapy: Some types of breast cancer grow in response to hormones such as estrogen or progesterone. Hormone therapy works by blocking the body’s ability to produce these hormones, or by blocking hormone receptors on cancer cells, thus stopping their growth.
5. Targeted Therapy: This involves the use of drugs that are designed to target specific characteristics of cancer cells, like a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way.
6. Immunotherapy: It works by using the body’s immune system to fight cancer. This type of treatment is not common for breast cancer and is still being studied.
7. Palliative care: This is additional treatment given to reduce the symptoms and side effects of the cancer and it’s treatments.
Each of these treatments comes with its own potential side effects and complications, which should be discussed thoroughly with the healthcare team. The choice of treatment depends on many factors, including the patient’s overall health, the type, and stage of cancer, and their preferences. The course of treatment is often decided by a team of doctors specializing in different areas.
It’s important to note that breast cancer survival rates have significantly increased over the years, mainly due to these targeted treatments and more personalized approaches. Always consult with healthcare providers to find the most effective treatment plan for each individual case.
Medications commonly used for Breast cancer (female)
There are several common classes of medication used to treat breast cancer in women. Please remember this is only information, always consult your doctor for any medical advice:
1. Chemotherapy: The two types of chemotherapy used for breast cancer are neoadjuvant therapy (before surgery) and adjuvant therapy (after surgery). Common chemotherapy drugs include anthracyclines like doxorubicin (Adriamycin), and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), taxanes such as paclitaxel (Taxol) and docetaxel (Taxotere), 5-fluorouracil, capecitabine (Xeloda), carboplatin (Paraplatin), and vinorelbine (Navelbine).
2. Hormone-Therapy: This is usually used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. It often includes Tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors like anastrozole (Arimidex), letrozole (Femara), exemestane (Aromasin), and fulvestrant (Faslodex).
3. Targeted Therapy: These drugs target specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. Trastuzumab (Herceptin), pertuzumab (Perjeta), ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla) are used for HER2-positive breast cancers.
4. Immunotherapy: Immune checkpoint inhibitors, like atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda), are drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
5. CDK4/6 inhibitors: This group of drugs includes palbociclib (Ibrance), ribociclib (Kisqali), and abemaciclib (Verzenio), typically used in combination with an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant.
6. PARP inhibitors: Olaparib (Lynparza) or talazoparib (Talzenna) can be used in patients with a BRCA mutation.
7. Bone Modifying Drugs: Like, zoledronic acid (Zometa) and denosumab (Xgeva) to strengthen bone, reduce the risk of fractures, and limit the amount of calcium released into the body by treatment.
Each drug has potential side effects and they vary from person to person. All of these medications are used under the strict guidance of a medical professional. It’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider for any queries or concerns.
Prevention of Breast cancer (female)
Prevention of breast cancer in females can’t be guaranteed, but certain measures can certainly help reduce the risk. It’s important to understand that some risk factors such as age, family history, or genetic makeup, cannot be changed. However, lifestyle decisions can significantly impact your risk, and these are within your control. Here are some preventive measures:
1. Regular Screening: According to the American Cancer Society, women should undergo a mammogram every year starting at the age of 45, and every two years starting at the age of 55. However, it could vary depending upon family history and other risk factors.
2. Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical exercise, reducing alcohol consumption, and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables have been shown to decrease breast cancer risks.
3. Breastfeeding: Extended breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer.
4. Limitation of Hormone Therapy: Prolonged hormone therapy could increase the risk of breast cancer, so limiting its duration or avoiding it can prevent the risk.
5. Avoid Exposure to Radiation: Receiving high-dose radiation therapy to the chest at a young age increases the risk. Therefore, limiting exposure to such therapies unless absolutely necessary can prevent the risk.
6. Genetic Testing: Women with a family history of breast cancer should consider genetic testing. If they test positive for BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, they are at a higher risk and may consider risk-reducing surgeries.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Early detection through regular screening is key for the most effective treatment options.
FAQ’s about Breast cancer (female)
1. What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. It can occur in both men and women, but it’s far more common in women.
2. What causes breast cancer?
The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown. However, some risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of getting breast cancer include being a woman, aging, early menstrual period, genes, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, having radiation therapy to the chest, obesity, alcohol, and hormonal factors.
3. What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Symptoms may include a breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue, changes to the skin over the breast, a newly inverted nipple, peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin, and redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange.
4. How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Breast cancer is often found after symptoms appear, but many women with breast cancer have no symptoms. It is often detected during a routine mammogram, ultrasound or MRI. A biopsy is done to confirm the diagnosis.
5. What are the stages of breast cancer?
The stages of breast cancer range from 0 to IV and are based on the size of the cancerous tumor, whether the cancer is invasive, whether it has spread to the lymph nodes, and whether it has spread to more distant parts of the body.
6. What treatment options are available for breast cancer?
Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, the patient’s general health status, and their personal preferences.
7. Can breast cancer be prevented?
While you can’t prevent breast cancer, you can take measures to reduce your risk like maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol consumption, regular exercise, regular screenings, and considering prophylactic surgery if you’re at high risk.
8. Does a family history of breast cancer increase my risk?
Yes, having one or more close relatives with breast or ovarian cancer does increase your risk of developing breast cancer.
9. How often should I do self-examinations?
It’s recommended that women perform a self-exam once a month, ideally at the same time every month.
10. Does finding a lump in your breast always mean you have cancer?
No, but finding a lump in your breast should always be investigated. Most breast lumps are noncancerous (benign) but any new lump or change in your breast should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Useful links
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among females. It’s vital to stay informed and up-to-date about the latest research and advancements in this field. Here is a list of relevant articles published in reputable journals that discuss various aspects of breast cancer:
Please, make sure to consult your healthcare professional for any medical advice or decisions.
Complications of Breast cancer (female)
Breast cancer can lead to several complications, which depend on the stage of the cancer and the individual patient’s health status. Here are some of the complications:
1. Spread to Nearby Tissues: Breast cancer can spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes, which helps the body filter out harmful substances. This increases the risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body.
2. Distant Metastasis: It can metastasize to distant organs like the liver, lungs, bones, and brain. This usually happens in the advanced stages of the disease.
3. Physical Complications: It can affect physical functioning and lead to pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. The side effects of treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, early menopause, hot flashes, and weight gain can also have a significant impact on patients’ lives.
4. Psychological Complications: It can lead to significant emotional stress, causing anxiety, depression, and fear. Adjusting to the diagnosis, undergoing treatment, and figuring out how to live with these changes can be very challenging.
5. Lymphedema: This condition, characterized by swelling in the arm or hand, may occur after surgery or radiation to the lymph nodes in the underarm.
6. Heart and Lung Damage: Some treatments, particularly certain types of chemotherapy and radiation, may cause damage to these organs.
7. Bone Health: Depending on the type of treatment chosen, there may be increased risks of bone loss (osteoporosis) or fractures.
8. Fertility and Pregnancy: Certain treatments may affect a woman’s fertility. In some cases, pregnancy can be safely managed during and after treatment, but in others, it may not be recommended.
9. Recurrence: Even after complete treatment, the cancer might return within the breast, chest wall, or other parts of the body.
Please remember, this is a general answer, and different individuals may experience different complications based on various factors.
Home remedies of Breast cancer (female)
It’s very important to clarify that no home remedy can cure or directly treat breast cancer. If you or anyone else is experiencing symptoms of breast cancer, it is necessary to consult with a medical professional for accurate diagnostics and treatment options. These often include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
However, the following lifestyle changes and complementary therapies can help support overall health and wellbeing during and after cancer treatment:
1. Balanced Diet: Nutritious food can help strengthen your immune system and give you the energy you need. This includes fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help decrease symptoms like fatigue, and it can improve your physical fitness and mental health.
3. Stress Management: This can involve yoga, meditation, art therapy, music therapy, and other relaxation techniques.
4. Support Networks: Joining support groups where others are also fighting cancer can be very empowering and emotionally beneficial.
5. Adequate Sleep: It’s important to get enough sleep to allow your body to heal and recover.
6. Reducing Alcohol Intake: Alcohol is a known risk factor for breast cancer, so it’s advisable to limit your intake.
7. Tobacco Cessation: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking damages almost every organ in the body, including the breast tissues.
Remember, only your doctor can provide you with a tailored treatment plan based on the specifics of your diagnosis. Any home strategies should be used as complementary to your physician-supervised treatment plan, not as alternatives.