BREAST CANCER (1)

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but it's also one that is very treatable. If you find a lump in your breast, don't hesitate to see a doctor right away. Here a lump in the breast indicate a piece or mass of solid matters in the breast without a particular shape. Early detection is key to a successful outcome."

This blog post emphasizes on:

• The definition of Breast Cancer.
• Which gender is affected with Breast Cancer.
• The early signs of detecting/importance of early detection. Which is one of the best ways to improve survival rates for breast cancer. It also encourages readers to take action if they find a lump in their breast.
• Causes and triggers of Breast Cancer. 

Cancer' is a word that strikes fear in the hearts of many people today particularly for ladies. However, I want you to understand that breast cancer is not a death sentence. With early detection and treatment, most women with breast cancer can go on to live long, healthy lives.

So, what Exactly Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. These cells can form a tumor, which is a mass of tissue. If left unchecked, the tumours can spread throughout the body and become fatal.

The earliest form of breast cancer cells (in situ) begin inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast and is not life-threatening.  

Also, Cancer cells can spread into nearby breast tissue (invasion). This creates tumours that cause lumps. In a long while breast cancer can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, and lungs here we will say that the breast cancer has metastasize. Metastasis can be fatal.

There are many different types of breast cancer, but the most common are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive ductal carcinoma. 

Which Gender Is Affected By Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer primarily affects women. However, men can also develop breast cancer, although it is much less common. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, while only about 1 in 1,000 men will develop breast cancer.

In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally. As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer. Breast cancer occurs in every country of the world in women at any age after puberty but with increasing rates in later life.

Early Signs Of Breast Cancer:

The early signs of breast cancer may include:

1. Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
2. Dimpling of the skin of the breast.
3. A nipple that is turned inward (inverted nipple).
4. Redness or scaliness of the skin of the breast or nipple.
5. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
6. Swelling of the armpit or collar bone area.

It is important to note that not everyone with breast cancer will experience any of these symptoms. Some people may have no symptoms at all. This is why it is important to get regular mammograms and breast exams, even if you do not have any symptoms. If you notice any changes in your breasts, it is important to see your doctor right away.

People with an abnormal breast lump should seek medical care, even if the lump does not hurt. What does an abnormal lump look like? 

This lump may be:

• Hard.
• Irregular in shape.
• Non-tender.
• Not attached to the skin or underlying tissue

Most breast lumps are not cancer. Breast lumps that are cancerous are more likely to be successfully treated when they are small and have not spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Early detection is key to successful treatment of breast cancer.

Causes And Trigger Of Breast Cancer:

There are many risk factors for breast cancer, but some of the most common ones include:

1. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women over the age of 50. This is not an exception because younger woman do have breast cancer.
2. Family history: Women who have a family history of breast cancer are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
3. Genetic mutations: Some women have genetic mutations that increase their risk of breast cancer. These mutations can be inherited from a parent or develop on their own.
4. Obesity: Women who are obese or overweight are at increased risk for breast cancer.

There are also some things that can trigger breast cancer, such as:

• Radiation exposure: Exposure to radiation, such as from radiation therapy or chest X-rays, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Certain environmental pollutants: Exposure to certain environmental pollutants, such as dioxins and PCBs, may increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Personal history: Women who have had breast cancer in one breast are more likely to develop cancer in the other breast or in another part of the body.
• Dense breast tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have more milk ducts and lobules in their breasts. This can make it more difficult to see cancer on a mammogram.

To conclude this first series on breast cancer I want to understand that Breast Cancer is a serious disease, but it is important to remember that it is also highly treatable if it is caught early. By being aware of the causes and early signs of breast cancer, you can take steps to protect yourself and get the care you need if you are diagnosed.

If you notice any of the early signs of breast cancer, such as a lump, changes in the shape or size of your breast, or nipple discharge, see your doctor right away. 

Don't forget that: "Early detection is key to successful Treatments".

The good news is that there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer. To learn about this, check out the Second series of Breast Cancer on our blog.

Do take care of yourself wherever you are.

Sincerely yours Favourite Nurse Favour.