Breast cancer is a disease that occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control. It can occur in the different parts of the breast. Also, there are different types of breast cancer, and the type depends on which cells in the breast become cancerous.
Breast cancer mostly affects women, although in some rare cases, it can also affect males, and it majorly occurs in men above 60 years of age.
This article will focus on breast cancer in females and talk about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Symptoms of breast cancer
One of the first symptoms of breast cancer is a lump in an armpit or breast. Some other symptoms are:
- Color changes in the skin of the breast
- Breast or armpit pain which doesn’t go away with the monthly cycle
- A rash on or around a nipple
- Nipple discharge which may consist of blood
- Changes in the size or shape of the nipple or breast.
- Peeling or flaking of the skin on the nipple or breast.
Please note that not all breast lumps are cancerous. However, anyone who notices a lump in their breast should have it checked by a doctor.
Causes of breast cancer
There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer in individuals. Although some of these risk factors are known, the causes of breast cancer or how these factors lead to the development of a cancer cell is not known.
All that is known is that normal breast cells can turn to cancer cells because of mutations in the DNA. Sometimes inherited genes can lead to this. However, most DNA changes related to breast cells can be caused by lifestyle choices.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
A doctor can diagnose breast cancer during a routine breast cancer screening or when an individual report to the hospital with symptoms that suggests breast cancer. After a diagnosis has been made, a doctor usually orders more tests such as breast examination and imaging tests to help confirm the diagnosis.
Expert guidelines on how often to have breast cancer screenings differ; however, most of them recommend speaking to a doctor about starting breast cancer screening from the age of 40.
How is breast cancer treated?
The major treatment options for breast cancer include
- Surgery
- Targeted drug therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
Although there are several ways to treat breast cancer, the most effective treatment approach to follow depends on several factors such as;
- The individual’s overall health, age, and preferences
- The stage and type of cancer
- Sensitivity to hormones
Although breast cancer is one of the major causes of death among females, awareness and early detection will help ensure it is caught in the early stage, where it can be treated effectively.
Please do your part in promoting breast cancer awareness by sharing this article on your social media pages.
