What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a prevalent condition affecting women globally. Despite advancements in medical science, it still claims numerous lives each year. Spreading awareness plays a vital role in preventing breast cancer and encouraging early diagnosis, which can greatly enhance treatment effectiveness and boost survival chances. October is internationally observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, commonly known as “Pink Month,” because of the pink ribbon used as its symbol. In India, breast cancer has recently overtaken cervical cancer, becoming the most widespread cancer among women. According to the Globocan 2022 report, India recorded 98,337 deaths from breast cancer, the highest in the world among women, surpassing cervical cancer. Several factors, such as delayed diagnosis, limited access to screening, and socioeconomic challenges, contribute to this high mortality rate.

UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER

Breast cancer originates in breast tissue, often within the cells that line the milk ducts or the lobules responsible for milk production. It can spread to other body areas through the lymphatic system or blood vessels if undetected or untreated. While men can also develop breast cancer, it is far more common in women. There are multiple types of breast cancer, with invasive ductal carcinoma accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. Other forms include invasive lobular carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, and the more aggressive triple-negative breast cancer, which is harder to treat.

Various factors may increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, though having one or more risk factors does not guarantee the onset of the disease. These factors include:

1. Gender: Women are significantly more likely to develop breast cancer than men.

2. Age: The risk escalates, especially after age 50.

3. Family History & Genetics: A history of breast cancer in close relatives, such as a mother or sister, can raise the risk, as can certain genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.

4. Hormonal Factors: Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55) increases exposure to estrogen, elevating the risk.

5. Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and a lack of physical activity are all linked to higher breast cancer risk.

6. Radiation Exposure: Those who have received radiation treatment to the chest for other conditions, such as lymphoma, may be at increased risk.

7. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Prolonged use of HRT, particularly combined estrogen-progestin therapy, can heighten the risk.

SYMPTOMS OF BREAST CANCER

Recognising the symptoms of breast cancer is crucial for early detection. While some cases in the early stages may show no noticeable signs, the following symptoms are common:
– A lump or thickened tissue in the breast or underarm.
– Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance.
– Skin dimpling or puckering on the breast.
– Nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody or abnormal.
– Nipple inversion or discomfort.
– Redness or scaling of the nipple or surrounding skin.
Not all lumps are cancerous, but healthcare should check for any unusual changes provider.
Maintaining proper breast hygiene is also essential to overall breast health. Here are a few tips:
– Daily Cleaning: Gently cleanse the breast area with mild soap and water during a shower or bath.
– Proper Bras: Wear well-fitted bras that provide support and change them regularly.
– Moisturize: Keep the skin around the breasts hydrated with non-irritating lotions to avoid dryness.
– Monitor Skin Changes: Routinely check the breast skin for any signs of irritation, rashes, or abnormalities.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION

Detecting breast cancer early is the most effective way to improve outcomes. When breast cancer is caught at an early stage, treatment is more successful, and long-term survival rates increase. For instance, when localised breast cancer is diagnosed early, the survival rate can reach up to 99%. Several methods for early detection include:

1. Breast Self-Exams (BSE): Regular self-examinations help women become familiar with the normal look and fees, enabling them to detect changes early on. Although
BSEs are not a replacement for professional screening like mammograms; they are a helpful
first step in spotting any irregularities.
Steps for a BSE:
– In the shower: Use your fingertips to examine the entire breast area, moving in circular
patterns to check for lumps.
– In front of a mirror: Look for visible changes in breast size, shape, or skin texture with
your arms at your sides and raised.
– Lying down: With a pillow under your shoulder, use the opposite hand to examine each
breast in small circular motions.
When to Perform BSE: Monthly self-exams are recommended, particularly a few days after menstruation when the breasts are less tender. Postmenopausal women should select a consistent day each month for the exam.

2. Clinical Breast Exams: Regular clinical exams by a healthcare professional are crucial for maintaining breast health, especially for women over 40 or those at higher risk.

3. Mammograms: As the most effective screening tool, mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages before any symptoms appear.

4. Ultrasound and MRI: These imaging techniques are often used to investigate abnormalities in mammograms or women with dense breast tissue.

PREVENTION STRATEGIES

While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle adjustments can lower the risk. These include:
1. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
2. Engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes daily.
3. Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption.
4. Quitting smoking to improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.
5. Breastfeeding, which has been shown to lower breast cancer risk.
6. Limiting hormone therapy and using the lowest effective dose under medical supervision.
7. Following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

CONCLUSION

Raising breast cancer awareness, particularly through initiatives like October’s “Pink Month,” is crucial in breaking down the disease’s stigma, promoting early detection, and improving survival rates. In India, where breast cancer cases continue to rise, spreading awareness and ensuring access to screening and treatment is critical for reversing current trends. By empowering individuals with knowledge about risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies, we can help save lives. Through collective efforts and early detection, we can work toward a future where no woman loses her life to breast cancer.

Reference:

1. www.who.int
2. A review of breast cancer awareness among women in India: Cancer literate or awareness deficit? doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2015.07.008.
3. knowyourlemons.org
4. www.bcrf.org