Breast cancer forms in the cells of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and it can occur in both female and male patients. There are various kinds of breast cancer, some of them more aggressive than others.
The common symptoms of breast cancer are:
The cause of breast cancer is a change to the rate at which the cells in the breast tissue grow and replace themselves. Cancer cells divide more rapidly than other cells, making lumps or masses in the breast tissue. Cancer cells can also spread to the lymph nodes or to other parts of the body. Breast cancer usually begins in the milk ducts of the breast but can also begin in the lobules, which are the glandular tissues in this area of the body.
The risk factors for breast cancer are:
Breast cancer is often diagnosed through the use of specific tests. A mammogram takes images of the breast tissue to look for lumps. Breast ultrasound can also identify areas of the breast that could be questionable or to get more information about an existing lump or tumour. Biopsies are usually also done to check for cancer cells in lumps or abnormalities in the breast. MRI can also be done to get a better image of the tissues of the breast.
An oncologist will need to be involved to identify the stage of the cancer. CT scans, bone scans, and PET scans will all be done to help the oncologist to confirm the type of breast cancer and the stage that the cancer is in.
Prevention of breast cancer requires that patients submit to annual screenings and that they take the time to do self-examinations of their breast tissue on a regular basis. Patients can also submit to genetic testing to identify the gene markers for breast cancer. Drinking less alcohol and being sure to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly can also help to prevent breast cancer. Ceasing smoking can also help prevent breast cancer.
In women who carry the gene for breast cancer, preventative surgery to remove the breasts can sometimes be recommended. There are also chemoprevention drugs that can be taken by these patients to help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Treatment of breast cancer varies based on the kind of cancer and whether or not the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Surgery is commonly required to remove the lump or mass. Patients might also have to have nearby lymph nodes removed to prevent the spread of the cancer. Many patients will also have to undergo chemotherapy to help keep their cancer under control.
Hormone therapy and other kinds of long-term care are often required to maintain healthy breast tissue in patients who have had breast cancer. These patients will also require regular annual exams and mammograms to make sure that their breast health is being tracked consistently.