Breast cancer may be a leading cause of death in women, but it's not a death sentence. We help you see how advanced medical technology is defeating breast cancer.
Breast Cancer and Its Treatment
Breast cancer can occur at any age and is common in women. It begins when cells in the breast start to divide and grow abnormally. Breast cancer can spread to other body parts, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, bones, or liver.
Treatment for breast cancer is based on several factors, including the type and stage. Common treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and surgery. Surgery is the most common and may involve a lumpectomy (removal of only the tumor) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
Speaking with your healthcare provider about the best treatment option is important.
What Causes Breast Cancer?
Although the exact causes of breast cancer are still unknown, several factors may increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. These include
Age
Genetic background
Hormones
Environmental exposures
Lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, diet, or lack of physical activity.
1. Age: Age is one of the most significant risk factors since the likelihood of developing breast cancer increases with age. Women over 40 are at a higher risk than younger women, and the risk continues to increase as a woman ages.
2. Genetic Background: Having certain genetic variations like mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can also increase the risk of breast cancer. Women from a family background with a record of ovarian or breast cancer are more likely to develop it.
3. Hormones: Women who started having their menstrual period before the age of 12 or went through menopause after the age of 55 are at a higher risk. In addition, women who have never given birth or had a first full-term pregnancy after the age of 30 are more likely to develop breast cancer.
4. Environmental exposures: Environmental factors, such as exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals, can also increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
5. Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors like being overweight or obese, drinking alcohol, not exercising, and eating an unhealthy diet have been linked to a higher risk of the disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can present itself in different ways, and it is important to be aware of the potential symptoms. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it is important to consider any breast changes.
The common symptoms include
A lump or thickening in the breast
Breast skin changes, such as redness or dimpling.
A change in the size or shape of either breast
Nipple discharge
Nipple inversion
Swelling in the armpit or lump near the collarbone
In addition to these physical symptoms, some women may experience pain or tenderness in the breast that is unrelated to the menstrual cycle.
How to Prevent Breast Cancer
Apart from avoiding known risk factors, you can take several steps to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Taking a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise
Avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking.
Getting regular screenings, such as mammograms and physical exams.
Limiting alcohol consumption as drinking too much increases the risk of breast cancer
Being aware of their family history, as those with a close relative who has had the disease may be at an increased risk.
Discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice on reducing the risk of breast cancer.
By following these steps, women can ensure that they stay informed and take action to reduce their risk of breast cancer.
How to Treat Breast Cancer
The treatment for breast cancer will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as other factors such as age, general health, and personal preferences. Treatment options may include
Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Hormone therapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy
The medical team at your clinic can provide more information about the treatments available to you and the potential side effects. It is important to discuss each treatment option's risks and benefits before deciding on a course of action.
1. Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for breast cancer. Depending on the size and type of tumor, doctors may remove the entire breast, known as a mastectomy. Alternatively, they may remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue.
2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It is typically used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells and, if necessary, can be used in combination with surgery and radiation.
4. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is used to reduce the levels of hormones such as estrogen, which can help stop the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells.
5. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs to block the growth signals that tell some cancer cells to grow and divide.
6. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells and is becoming increasingly popular for treating certain breast cancers.
Your treatment plan should be in line with your individual needs and preferences. Working with your medical team, you can make the best decisions for your health.
Breast Cancer Is Not a Death Sentence
Breast cancer treatment has continuously improved over the years and is becoming more effective daily. New therapies have been developed in recent years tailored to individual patient and their cancer.
These therapies allow for successful breast cancer treatment while avoiding the side effects associated with more traditional treatments. The therapies include targeted drug therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and even novel surgical techniques specific to breast cancer.
Many patients with breast cancer now have the opportunity to experience a much better prognosis than ever before. Thanks to advancements in medical technology and treatment options, more women are living longer without traditional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.
