Bca

Breast Cancer
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Lump in breast, change in breast shape, dimpling of the skin, fluid coming from the nipple, red scaly patch of skin
Complications	Metastasis, lymphedema
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic mutations, environmental factors
Risks	Female sex, age, family history, obesity, alcohol consumption
Diagnosis	Mammography, biopsy, ultrasound
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

Overview

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops from breast tissue. It is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though it can also occur in men. Breast cancer arises from the cells of the breast, typically from the lining of the milk ducts or the lobules that supply the ducts with milk.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump in the breast or underarm. Other symptoms may include:

• Change in breast shape or size
• Dimpling of the skin over the breast
• Fluid coming from the nipple, which may be bloody
• Red scaly patch of skin on the breast
• Swelling of part or all of a breast
• Pain in the breast or nipple

Causes

Breast cancer is caused by a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. Some of the key genetic mutations associated with breast cancer include mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Environmental factors such as radiation exposure, hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise can also contribute to the development of breast cancer.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer:

• Being female
• Increasing age
• Family history of breast cancer
• Obesity
• Alcohol consumption
• Early menstruation or late menopause
• Nulliparity or having children later in life

Diagnosis

Breast cancer is diagnosed through a combination of imaging studies and biopsy.

Imaging Studies

• Mammography: An X-ray of the breast used to detect tumors.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging can be used for more detailed images.

Biopsy

A biopsy involves taking a sample of breast tissue to be examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.

Treatment

Treatment for breast cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

Surgery

• Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
• Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, partially or completely.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to target and kill cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells, often used in combination with other treatments.

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy is used for cancers that are sensitive to hormones, such as estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Prognosis

The prognosis for breast cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, the type of cancer, and the treatment received. Early detection and treatment generally lead to a better prognosis.

Prevention

While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, certain lifestyle changes can reduce risk:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Considering the risks of hormone replacement therapy

See Also

• Oncology
• Cancer
• Mammography

External Links

• [American Cancer Society]
• [Breast Cancer Research Foundation]