Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. The breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the breast cells and can spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to survive breast cancer.

However, the latest reports show that breast cancer diagnoses are increasing in advanced stages in the region.

What is breast cancer and its causes?

Breast cancer occurs when the cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but there are certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

These include genetics, age, hormonal imbalances, obesity, and alcohol consumption.

Why are breast cancer diagnoses increasing in advanced stages?

There could be several reasons behind the increase in advanced-stage diagnoses. One of the primary reasons could be a lack of awareness about the disease and its symptoms.

Women might not be familiar with early detection methods like mammograms, or they might not seek medical help until they experience symptoms like a lump in their breast.

Another major reason could be the lack of access to quality healthcare. A lot of women in the region might not have access to proper healthcare facilities or might not be able to afford the high cost of breast cancer treatment.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

It’s important to be familiar with the symptoms of breast cancer, as early detection can improve your chances of survival. Some of the common symptoms of breast cancer include:.

A lump in the breast or underarm that does not go away
Changes in the size or shape of the breast
Swelling or redness on the breast
Nipple discharge or inversion
Skin changes on the breast

How can breast cancer be diagnosed?

There are several ways to diagnose breast cancer, including:.

Mammogram: A mammogram is a type of X-ray that can detect abnormal growths in the breast tissue.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue.
MRI: An MRI can create detailed images of the breast tissue, which can detect abnormalities more easily than other diagnostic tests.
Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a small amount of tissue from the breast for laboratory analysis.

What are the treatment options for breast cancer?

There are several treatment options for breast cancer, including:.

Surgery: Surgery involves removing the cancerous tissue from the breast.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy uses drugs to block the hormones that contribute to the growth of the cancer cells.

How can breast cancer be prevented?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, there are certain lifestyle changes that women can make to reduce their risk. These include:.

Maintaining a healthy weight
Limiting alcohol consumption
Exercising regularly
Limiting exposure to radiation
Avoiding unnecessary hormone therapy

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious disease that affects millions of women worldwide. It’s important for women to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer and to seek medical help if they experience any of them.

With early detection and proper treatment, breast cancer can be successfully treated, and the chances of survival improve significantly. However, the latest reports indicate that breast cancer diagnoses are increasing in advanced stages in the region, pointing towards the need for more awareness and better access to quality healthcare.