What is breast cancer?
It is the abnormal reproduction of cells which grow into a malignant tumor in the breast. As the tumor keeps growing, it spreads and affects the other parts of the body.
What causes it?
No one knows what the causes are. But although there is no direct evidence for it, cancer seems to be strongly connected with lifestyle. Cases of the disease have risen dramatically in the past few decades, just as women’s habits and diet have undergone great changes.
Who is at greater risk to have breast cancer?
Women are more likely than men to develop the disease. Also, women who had periods early (before 12) or stopped late (after 50) or gave birth to their first child after 30. Chances are also increased for women who smoke and drink alcohol, or go on crash diets (very low calorie intake). Cancer appears to be partially genetic, so if there is a history of the disease in the family, the risk level is higher.
Those who take the oral contraceptive pill or take hormone replacement therapy are also at great risk because of the exposure to estrogen. Abortions are said by some to induce cancer also since the breasts continue growing even after the abrupt termination of pregnancy. Wearing a bra for long periods is also said to induce cancerous breast tumors. However these claims are not yet verified by research.
What are the symptoms?
Most people would not notice anything in the beginning. As the cancer grows however, you may notice irritation or swelling in the breast, an inverted nipple, a change in breast size, dimpling, or a lump around the underarm area.
Can breast cancer be prevented?
It cannot be prevented, although you can do things to lower your risk of getting cancer. Live a healthy lifestyle, eat healthy foods, avoid drinking and other unwholesome activities. Exercise regularly at least 5 times a week.
Can it be detected early?
Yes. Every woman should have her breasts examined regularly through mammography, which is x-ray of the breasts. As women grow older, the chances of developing cancer increase. Sometimes an ultrasound may be used instead. Finally, if a breast tumor is found, a breast biopsy or examination of a sample tissue will determine if the tumor is cancerous or not.
Can it be cured once it is detected?
The earlier a cancerous tumor is found, the sooner it can be cured. However the disease becomes harder to treat as it progresses. If the cancer is detected at an advanced stage, the chances of recovery are much slimmer.
What does it mean when they say a cancer is in its advanced stage?
That the disease has spread to parts of the body other than its origin. Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells. It does not stop growing unless successfully removed and treated.
How is the cancer treated?
The chief treatment is surgical removal of the tumor in the breast. The smaller it is, the better the chances of success. In many cases, the shape of the breast is retained as much as possible. Afterwards, the patient may undergo chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or hormone therapy to keep the cancer from returning.
