Breast Cancer…The 411Vol 1

Cancer in generalCancer is a term used for diseases in which

abnormal cells divide without control and are able to invade other tissues.

Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body basically through bloodstream and lymph systems.

Cancer as a term encompasses a complex group of more that 100 different types of Cancerous diseases

Cancer in general ContdCells are the smallest unit of life. Cells form

tissues, tissues form organs and organs form system.

Cells divide and multiply as the body needs them (a process known as Mitosis).

The issue of Cancer or cancerous cells arises when cells continue dividing when the body does not need them…

TypesCancer can affect almost any part of the body.

Every part of our body is made up of cells so that fact is logical.

Most Cancers are named after the organ or area in which they start growing. E.g Colon Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Breast Cancer etc…

Breast CancerBreast cancer is the type that develops or

originates from Breast cells.Its either from the Milk ducts in the breast or

the lobules that supply the milk ducts with milk.

If it originates form the Milk ducts, its known as ductal carcinoma. If its from the lobules however, its known as lobular carcinoma

Causes of Breast Cancer?There is no specific cause of breast

cancer. Experts do not have a full understanding of that yet.

However, there are what we call Risk Factors that increase the individual’s chances of developing the disease

Risk FactorsAge: it is more common in older women –

women over 50 years.Family history of breast or ovarian cancer.Previous Breast Cancer: individuals who have

had breast cancer before are more likely to develop the disease again compared to those who don’t have such history.

Alcohol consumption.

Risk Factors Contd Radiation Exposure: like X-rays and CT scans Hormone Replacement TherapyObesity: Post-menopausal obese and

overweight women may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer

Estrogen Exposure: menstrual period at a very early age (before 12 for example) or late menopause can increase the odds also.

Signs and SymptomsLump in the Breast.Rash on or around one of the nipples.Swelling in one of the armpits.Pain in the armpits or the best (that is not

related to the menstrual period)Area of thickened tissue in the breast.Discharge from the nipple that may contain

blood.

Signs and Symptoms ContdChanges in the appearance of the nipple.

It might become inverted/sunken.Changes in the size or shape of the

breast.The skin of the nipple or the breast may

peel, scale or flake.

Breast Cancer ScreeningThis is done to check the breast for

anything unusual – sign or symptom.The screening can be used to determine

if the individual in question is cancer free or to catch the cancer early in the other case

Catching the cancer at an early stage is quite significant in the long-term treatment.

Breast Cancer ScreeningThe Screening Tests include Breast Exam,

Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan.

Breast Exam can either be ‘self’ (by the individual) or ‘clinical’ (by a physician). The breast is examined physically for any of the aforementioned signs/symptoms.

Breast Cancer ScreeningMammography uses x-rays to check the breast

for any unusual lump or masses.

If anything is found, lump majorly, then;

Breast Ultrasound helps determine if the lump or abnormality found is a Solid mass or a fluid-filled cyst.

Breast Cancer ScreeningBreast MRI helps determine the

extent to which the cancer has spread

Important Message!!!It is important to check the breast occasionally as an

early detection can go a long way in the fight against Breast Cancer.

Individuals should go for Breast Cancer Screening occasionally. It should be more routine for women over the age of 50.

Eat right, Treat your body well and stay away from harmful hazards in the environment.

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