Breast Cancers
Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the breast tissue. It is one of the most common cancers among women, but it can also affect men, although it is much less common in men.
Common Types:
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Early-stage cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but haven't spread outside the duct.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, it starts in the milk ducts and invades nearby tissues in the breast.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to nearby tissues.
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A subtype that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, making it less responsive to some treatments.
- HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A subtype that has an overabundance of HER2 protein, which can be targeted with specific therapies.
Risk Factors:
- Gender (more common in women)
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Family history of breast cancer
- Inherited gene mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2)
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Personal history of breast cancer
Symptoms:
- Lump in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes on the breast (dimpling, redness)
- Nipple changes (inversion, discharge)
- Breast pain (not always present)
Prevention:
- Regular breast self-exams and mammograms for early detection.
- Lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking.
- Genetic counseling and testing for individuals with a family history of breast cancer.
