Breast cancer develops when an abnormal mass of tissue known as a tumor grows in the breast. Here, the cells divide and grow in an uncontrolled manner. If affected, one might notice signs like lumps in the breast, skin discoloration in the area, and a change in the breast size. Age is a key risk factor for the condition, and women over 50 have a higher likelihood of developing breast cancer.
Symptoms
The symptoms of breast cancer can vary from person to person and sometimes may go completely unnoticed. So, routine mammograms are essential for timely diagnosis. Some of the common signs of the condition are:
- Noticeable changes in the shape or size of breasts
- Formation of a lump (as small as a pea) that can be felt during examination
- Redness in the area
- A clear fluid or blood-stained discharge
- Scaly, inflamed, puckered, or dimpled skin around the breast
- A hard spot under the skin
- Lump formation in the breasts or the underarm during menstruation
Causes
The exact cause of breast cancer is still not known, however, some of the risk factors are:
Age: Women are at a higher risk of the condition as they age, and the condition is commonly observed in those over 50.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop breast cancer than men.
Genetics and family history: One is at risk of developing the condition if their sibling or parent has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Radiation exposure: If one has undergone radiation therapy, particularly to the chest, head, or neck, they are more likely to have breast cancer.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Women undergoing HRT may have an increased risk of cancer.
Diagnosis and treatment
Doctors diagnose breast cancer with the help of several tests, such as a mammogram, ultrasonography, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and PET (positron emission tomography) scan. If they find something suspicious, they may recommend a biopsy. Based on the diagnosis, the doctor will discuss suitable breast cancer treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgical options could be:
Lumpectomy: Removal of tumor and a small portion of tissue
Mastectomy: Removal of all breast tissue, skin, nipple, and areola
Radical mastectomy: In addition to total mastectomy, the chest wall muscles under the breast and a few lymph nodes under the arm are removed.
Modified radical mastectomy: A few lymph nodes are removed in addition to total mastectomy.
Sentinel node biopsy and axillary lymph node dissection: Performed to check if cancer has reached sentinel nodes and remove the nodes affected by the cancer spread.
Alternative treatment
A few remedies can help relieve discomfort associated with breast cancer. Common alternative treatment options are acupuncture, massage therapy, biofeedback, reiki, tai chi, qi gong, and holistic therapies. However, one should consult a doctor before choosing any remedy. Along with treatment, lifestyle changes like better food choices can help the body heal faster. Some foods that help with breast cancer management are leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, and chard. They are rich in antioxidants that help manage the side effects of treatment. One can also have cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruits, berries, peaches, apples, beans, walnuts, and whole grains as part of a balanced meal plan.
One should consult a doctor for a prompt diagnosis if they notice any signs of breast cancer.
