Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and the second most common cancer overall, with about 1.7 million new cases diagnosed in 2012.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast cells. It can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in women. The cancer cells form a tumor in the breast tissue, which can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Types of Breast Cancer

There are different types of breast cancer, which can be classified based on where the cancer cells originate:.

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a type of breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts of the breast. It is considered non-invasive, meaning it hasn’t spread outside of the milk ducts.

DCIS is usually detected through a mammogram and is treatable with surgery and radiation.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) starts in the milk ducts of the breast and grows into the surrounding breast tissue. It is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases.

IDC can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast and can spread to the surrounding breast tissue. It accounts for about 10% of breast cancer cases.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a type of breast cancer that does not have receptors for estrogen, progesterone, or HER2. This means that TNBC does not respond to hormonal therapy or targeted therapy for HER2.

TNBC is more common in younger women and African American women.

Breast Cancer Prevention

While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking can help reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Limit Alcohol Intake

Drinking alcohol increases your risk of breast cancer. The more you drink, the higher your risk. It’s recommended that women limit their alcohol intake to one drink per day or less.

Consider Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy (HT) is used to treat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, long-term use of HT can increase your risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of HT.

Breast Cancer Early Detection

Early detection is key to successful treatment of breast cancer. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better your chances of survival. There are two main ways to detect breast cancer early:.

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can detect breast cancer before a lump can be felt.

Mammograms are recommended for women over the age of 50, but women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to start getting mammograms earlier.

Clinical Breast Exam

A clinical breast exam (CBE) is a physical exam of the breast performed by a healthcare provider. It can detect lumps or other abnormalities that may need further testing.

It’s recommended that women get a CBE every 3 years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but it is treatable if detected early.

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol intake, considering hormone therapy, and getting regular mammograms and clinical breast exams, you can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer and increase your chances of survival if you are diagnosed.