Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. It develops when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Though it occurs mostly in women, men can also develop breast cancer (though rare).

Breast cancer can start in different parts of the breast—most commonly in the ducts that carry milk (ductal carcinoma) or the glands that produce milk (lobular carcinoma).

Early breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, which makes regular screening very important. Common warning signs include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the breast skin
• Inverted nipple or changes in the nipple area
• Redness, scaliness, or thickening of nipple or breast skin
• Unusual discharge from the nipple (other than breast milk)
• Persistent pain in any part of the breast

Breast cancer is classified into stages, which describe the extent of spread. Staging helps doctors decide treatment options.

• Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ): Abnormal cells are present but have not spread.
• Stage I: Small tumor (up to 2 cm) confined to the breast.
• Stage II: Tumor may be 2–5 cm, possibly with limited spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Larger tumor with spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes but not distant organs.
• Stage IV (Metastatic): Cancer has spread to other organs like bones, lungs, liver, or brain.

Follow treatment plans (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or hormone therapy) as advised by your oncologist.

The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several factors increase the risk:

• Genetic factors: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
• Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 50.
• Family history: Having a close relative with breast or ovarian cancer.
• Hormonal factors: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after 55), or hormone replacement therapy.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
• Reproductive history: Having the first child after 30 or never having a full-term pregnancy.

While not all breast cancers can be prevented, certain steps can reduce risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.
• Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking.
• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Breastfeed, if possible, as it lowers risk.
• Limit exposure to hormone replacement therapy.
• Consider genetic counseling if you have a strong family history.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, accounting for about 1 in 4 new cancer cases in women.

• In India, breast cancer accounts for 14% of all cancers in women.
• About 1 in 8 women globally will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
• Survival rates are much higher when the cancer is detected early. The 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer can be as high as 90% or more.
• Around 10–15% of breast cancers are linked to genetic factors, while lifestyle and environment play a larger role.