Breast cancer: What you need to know

By Dr. Avi Verma

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, though it can also affect men. Early detection, advancements in treatment, and awareness have significantly improved survival rates. Here’s what you need to know about breast cancer, its causes, recommended treatments, and success rates.

Understanding Breast Cancer

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. These abnormal cells form a tumor, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If left untreated, malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body.

Types of Breast Cancer

• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of the breast ducts.
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, where cancer cells spread beyond the ducts into breast tissue.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the milk-producing lobules and can spread to other parts of the body.
• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): A more aggressive form that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, making it harder to treat.
• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A type of cancer where HER2 protein promotes cell growth, often requiring targeted therapy.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:

Genetic Factors

• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
• Personal history of breast cancer

Hormonal & Lifestyle Factors

• Prolonged exposure to estrogen (early menstruation, late menopause)
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Obesity and lack of physical activity
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Environmental & Other Factors

• Radiation exposure
• Certain workplace exposures to chemicals
• Dense breast tissue, which makes detection harder

Symptoms to Watch For

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in breast size, shape, or appearance
• Nipple discharge, especially blood
• Redness, dimpling, or irritation of the skin
• Pain in any area of the breast

Early detection is key to successful treatment. Regular self-exams, clinical check-ups, and mammograms help in early diagnosis.

Recommended Treatments

The choice of treatment depends on the cancer’s stage, type, and the patient’s overall health.

1. Surgery

• Lumpectomy: Removes only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
• Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, sometimes including nearby lymph nodes.
• Reconstructive Surgery: Often performed post-mastectomy to restore breast appearance.

2. Radiation Therapy

Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and prevent recurrence, often after surgery.

3. Chemotherapy

Drugs are used to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy), or prevent recurrence after surgery (adjuvant therapy).

4. Hormonal Therapy

For hormone-sensitive cancers, medications like Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors block estrogen and progesterone to slow or stop cancer growth.

5. Targeted Therapy

For HER2-positive breast cancer, targeted drugs like Trastuzumab (Herceptin) and Pertuzumab (Perjeta) attack specific cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

6. Immunotherapy

Emerging treatments, such as checkpoint inhibitors, help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells, particularly effective in triple-negative breast cancer.

Success Rates and Prognosis

The survival rate for breast cancer has improved dramatically due to better treatments and early detection. According to studies published by the American Cancer Society (ACS) and National Cancer Institute (NCI):

• Localized (no spread): 5-year survival rate is 99%
• Regional (spread to nearby lymph nodes): 5-year survival rate is 86%
• Distant (spread to other organs): 5-year survival rate drops to 30%

The overall 5-year survival rate for all stages combined is 91%, emphasizing the importance of early detection and timely treatment.

Prevention and Lifestyle Changes

While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle choices can lower the risk:

• Regular exercise (150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Avoiding smoking
• Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Regular screenings based on age and risk factors

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious but treatable disease, especially when caught early. Advances in treatment continue to improve survival rates, making awareness, screening, and lifestyle modifications crucial. If you or a loved one notices any unusual changes, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early detection saves lives.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The treatment options and success rates mentioned are based on research from institutions such as the American Cancer Society (ACS), Mayo Clinic, National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.

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