Breast Cancer- Everything you want to know

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the breast. While it predominantly affects women over the age of 50, men are also at risk, albeit representing a smaller percentage of cases. 

There are different types of breast cancer, including-

• Ductal Carcinoma in situ, 

• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma,

• Lobular Carcinoma in situ, 

• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma. 

The most common form is Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, accounting for around 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses. This form of cancer occurs when abnormal cells growing inside the milk ducts of the breast spread to other breast tissues near the walls of the duct. 

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, such as

• advanced age

• family history of breast or ovarian cancer (mother or sister)

• hormonal supplements

• genetic mutations

• dense breasts

• previous radiation therapy, 

• infertility or late first pregnancy, 

• smoking, alcohol consumption, and

• birth control pills. 

Symptoms of Breast  Cancer 

It's essential to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer, which may include

• inverted nipples, 

• changes in breast size and shape, 

• thickened or puckered breast skin,

• redness and  discomfort

• breast lumps, 

• bloody nipple discharge, 

• swollen lymph nodes, 

• breast pain, or peeling/flaking of the nipple skin.

If your senior loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a doctor promptly. Elder care service providers in Kolkata offer doctor's and pathology assistance services for seniors to ensure timely medical attention.

The following tests and procedures are used to detect breast cancer-

Mammogram 

A mammogram, also known as mastography, uses low-energy X-rays to examine the human breast for diagnosis and screening. 

Biopsy

It is a medical test involving the extraction of sample cells or tissues and then studying it under a microscope to determine the presence of a disease, especially cancer

MRI(Magnetic Resonance Imaging )

It is a medical imaging test that produces detailed images of the internal structures of  a human body, including bones, organs, blood vessels, and muscles 

 Breast Cancer Treatments

Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. 

 Surgery 

Surgery, such as partial mastectomy, lumpectomy, total mastectomy, or radical mastectomy, is often performed to remove cancerous tissues.

Partial mastectomy

It’s the surgery to remove the part of the breast that is affected by cancer and some tissues surrounding it.

Lumpectomy

This surgery involves removing a tumor or a lump and tissues around it.

Total Mastectomy 

The process by which the whole breast is removed through surgery to get rid of cancer Radical Mastectomy The surgery to remove the cancer-affected breast, chest wall muscles under the breast, and the lymph nodes under the arm

Radical Mastectomy

The surgery to remove the cancer-affected breast, chest wall muscles under the breast, and the lymph nodes under the arm 

Chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells. It is one of the most common forms of treatment for cancers. Chemotherapy may be given with curative intent, involving a combination of drugs or it may aim to prolong life and reduce symptoms

Radiation Therapy

This therapy uses high-energy X-rays or ionizing radiation to kill or prevent cancer cells from growing. Radiation therapy can be given externally or internally. The most common is external beam radiation therapy, involving a large machine, linear accelerator. High-energy beams are aimed from the machine to the cancer-affected part of your body.

 Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy involves modifying hormone levels in the body to treat breast cancer.

In conclusion, breast cancer is a complex disease that can affect both women and men. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention are crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Various treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, aim to combat breast cancer and improve patients' outcomes. Regular screenings and awareness can contribute to better managing and preventing this condition.