Getting a diagnosis of breast cancer can be devastating. The fear and uncertainty that follow can paralyze any individual, but it is essential to seek as much information as possible.

Knowledge is power, and armed with the correct knowledge, you are better equipped to make informed decisions. This article will provide you with expert answers to many questions you may have about breast cancer.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when normal breast cells begin to multiply abnormally, gradually forming a malignant tumor. Breast cancer can begin in different components of the breast, such as the lobules or milk ducts.

What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Some of the common symptoms of breast cancer include:.

A lump in the breast, which may feel hard or tender to touch.
A change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
Discharge from the nipple, which may contain blood.
Inverted nipples, especially if the change is sudden and unexplained.
Skin irritation or dimpling, which may cause the breast to look like the skin of an orange.
Breast pain or tenderness that is new and unexplained.

It’s important to note that not all breast lumps are malignant. Still, it is essential to have any changes in your breast, for example, skin dimpling, checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

What Causes Breast Cancer?

There is no definitive cause of breast cancer, but several factors can increase your risk of developing the disease. These include:.

Gender: Women are more likely to develop breast cancer than men.
Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older.
Family history: A family history of breast cancer may increase your risk of getting the disease.
Weight: Being overweight may increase your risk of developing breast cancer.
Exposure to radiation: Exposure to radiation, such as during cancer treatment, may increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

To diagnose breast cancer, a doctor will perform a physical examination of the breasts and may also order imaging tests like mammograms, ultrasound, or MRI.

If the imaging test suggests cancer, the doctor may perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue from the lump to be examined under a microscope. A biopsy is the only way to be sure whether a breast lump is cancerous or not.

What are the Treatment Options for Breast Cancer?

The treatment options for breast cancer depend on the stage of the disease and may include:.

Surgery: Surgery aims to remove the cancerous tumor and any affected tissue around it.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy aims to kill cancer cells in the body using strong drugs.
Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells in the breast.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is for breast cancers that are hormone-sensitive. The therapy aims to block hormones that promote cell growth from working.
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is for breast cancers that have specific proteins that allow the cancer cells to grow. The therapy aims to block these proteins and stop cancer growth.

Your treatment plan will depend on the stage of your breast cancer and other factors, such as your overall health.

What is the Prognosis for Breast Cancer?

The prognosis or outlook for breast cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and type of cancer, how aggressive it is, and how responsive it is to treatment. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.

If breast cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer?

You can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer by:.

Maintaining a healthy weight.
Limiting your alcohol consumption.
Exercising regularly.
Having regular mammograms to detect breast cancer early.
Avoiding hormone replacement therapy and other medications that may increase the risk of breast cancer.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical help if you discover a lump in your breast or notice any other unusual changes that persist for two weeks or more.

It is essential to have regular screening tests and exams, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. However, it is essential to keep in mind that early detection is key to good prognosis and successful treatment.

Be aware of your body and stay up-to-date on your screening tests to detect any changes early on. If you have any concerns about breast cancer or have any unusual changes in your breast, seek medical help as soon as possible.