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Understanding Breast Cancer: Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatments

Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month shines a spotlight on breast cancer, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, breast cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. With breast cancer affecting so many lives, it’s essential to understand the importance of early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer starts as an abnormal growth of cells (a tumor) within the breast tissue. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. While breast cancer predominantly affects women, men can also be diagnosed with it, albeit at a significantly lower rate.

What Increases Risk of Breast Cancer?

There are various factors that can increase your risk of breast cancer:

1. Gene Mutations – Specific inherited mutations in genes can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
2. Age – The likelihood of developing breast cancer rises with age, particularly after 50.
3. Hormonal Factors – Prolonged exposure to estrogen, whether from early menstruation, late menopause, or home replacement therapy, can increase risk.
4. Family History – A family history of breast cancer can elevate risk due to genetic predispositions.
5. Lifestyle Choices – Factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking are linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Early detection is crucial, and being aware of the symptoms can save lives. Common signs of breast cancer include:

1. Lumps or Masses – A noticeable lump or mass in the breast or underarm area
2. Changes in Breast Shape or Size – Any unusual changes in the contour, size, or shape of the breast
3. Nipple Changes – Discharge or changes in the appearance of the nipple
4. Skin Changes – Redness, swelling, or dimpling of the skin on the breast or nipple area
5. Pain – Persistent pain in or near the breast that doesn’t go away

How to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer?

While there is no way to guarantee that you don’t develop breast cancer, several strategies may reduce the risk or help you catch it early:

1. Regular Screenings – Annual mammograms and clinical breast exams are vital for early detection. Women should start regular screening at age 40. Some women may be advised to start earlier based on personal and family medical histories.
2. Self–Exams – Performing monthly self-exams can help you become familiar with the normal state of your breasts, making it easier to notice any changes.
3. Healthy Lifestyle – Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding tobacco can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
4. Genetic Testing ­– For individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended to assess risk.

Coping with Breast Cancer

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. As always, consult with your physician for personalized medical advice. For some ways to help deal with the mental and emotional effects of a diagnosis, see below:

1. Seek Support – Support groups – whether educational or focused on emotional support – can be an important resource for those with breast cancer.
2. Educate Yourself – Understanding your diagnosis and treatment options can empower you to make informed decisions about your care.
3. Focus on Wellness – Engage in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being such as meditation, yoga, or therapy. If you’re interested in practicing mindfulness, check out the practices in your Motivation Alliance portal.

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Resources:

American Cancer Society. (2021, November 19). What Causes Breast Cancer? | American Cancer Society. Www.cancer.org. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/how-does-breast-cancer-form.html

Breast Cancer Risk: Family History of Breast, Ovarian or Prostate Cancer. (n.d.). Susan G. Komen®. https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/family-history-cancer/#:~:text=People%20with%20a%20family%20history%20of%20breast%2C%20ovarian

‌Breast cancer – Symptoms and causes. (2024). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470#:~:text=Breast%20cancer%20is%20a%20kind%20of%20cancer%20that

‌Communications, E. P. H. (2023, May 17). Estrogen a more powerful breast cancer culprit than we realized. Harvard Gazette. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/05/estrogen-a-more-powerful-breast-cancer-culprit-than-we-realized/

‌Mayo Clinic. (2024, February 10). Breast cancer – symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470

‌October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. (n.d.). American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). https://www.aacr.org/patients-caregivers/awareness-months/breast-cancer-awareness-month/

‌Disclaimer:

We want you to be well and to live your best life. The content in this blog is provided for the purposes to educate and entertain you: our very important reader. It is not intended as medical advice or as substitute for medical advice from a trained healthcare professional.

If you have a medical condition or are under the care of a medical provider, please always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before undertaking a new health care regimen. To that point, never disregard medical advice or delay treatment for a medical condition because of something you read on this site.

Listen to your care providers as they know you and your conditions best. Thank you for reading!

The Team at BSDI