How does breast cancer occur? Self-examination, symptoms, and treatment
In most cases I see, breast cancer cells form a tumor that can often be felt as a lump or seen on an X-ray. Breast cancer occurs almost exclusively in women, but in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
It is important to be aware of the fact that most breast lumps are not cancerous. Non-cancerous breast tumors are just abnormal growths that do not spread outside the breast. Although non-cancerous tumors are not life-threatening, some types of women may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
If a breast lump is felt, to determine whether it is benign or malignant and whether it may affect your future cancer risk, it is very important to get examined by a certified doctor.
I am explaining to you the way of self-examination, awareness and regular screening of symptoms are important ways to reduce risk.
Breast cancer symptoms self-examination
The most common symptom of breast cancer can be seen as a lump in the breast or armpit area or a thick tissue in the breast.
Other breast cancer symptoms include:
- Constant pain in the breast or armpit area that does not depend on the menstrual cycle
- Change in breast size or shape
- Fluid discharge from the nipple that may contain blood
- Nipple Reversal
- Scaling, blinking, or peeling of skin on breast or nipple
- If you get breast lumps, do not panic, most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, if there is any lump on the breast, it is necessary to go to the doctor for examination.
Causes of breast cancer
The exact cause of how breast cancer occurs is still unclear but I explain to you some risk factors that make it more likely. Risk factors under your control must be stopped.
Ages
The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
Genetics
If a blood relative has or had breast cancer, the person is more likely to develop breast cancer.
History of breast cancer or breast lumps
Dense breast tissue
Women who were previously diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to develop the disease.
Women with more dense breasts should be more vigilant as they are more likely to receive a diagnosis of breast cancer.
Exposure to estrogen and breastfeeding
Extended exposure to estrogen increases breast cancer risk.
Bodyweight
Overweight women after menopause may also have a higher chance of developing breast cancer, possibly due to higher estrogen levels.
Alcohol abuse
Regular and high amounts of alcohol consumption play a role in the development of breast cancer. Women who consume alcohol have a higher breast cancer risk than those who do not.
Radiation risk
Undergoing chemotherapy for a different cancer may increase the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
Hormone treatment
Taking oral contraception may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer.
Please note that some women may develop breast cancer without any risk factors. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get the disease, and not all risk factors will have the same effect.
When should I get a breast check?
Women should do breast self-testing starting in their 20s. Women who decide to do a breast self-examination must have their technique performed by a certified physician. Any symptoms seen during breast self-examination must be reported to the doctor immediately.
Women who have an increased risk of breast cancer should undergo an annual MRI of their breasts with their annual mammogram. Consult your doctor to find out if you are at risk of breast disease.
