EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST CANCER

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It's important to note that while certain risk factors are associated with an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer, the exact cause of breast cancer is often multifactorial and not fully understood. Here are some recognized risk factors:

1. Age and Gender:

• The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and women are at a higher risk compared to men.

2. Family History and Genetics:

• A family history of breast cancer, especially if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) had the disease, can increase the risk. Mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are also associated with an elevated risk.

3. Hormonal Factors:

• Prolonged exposure to estrogen is a known risk factor. Early onset of menstruation, late onset of menopause, and hormone replacement therapy are factors that can contribute.

4. Reproductive History:

• Women who have never had children or had their first child after the age of 30 may have a slightly higher risk. Conversely, early childbirth and breastfeeding can have a protective effect.

5. Personal History of Breast Cancer or Certain Non-Cancerous Diseases:

• Women who have had breast cancer in one breast are at an increased risk of developing cancer in the other breast. Certain non-cancerous breast diseases may also increase the risk.

6. Radiation Exposure:

• Previous radiation therapy to the chest for other medical conditions, especially during adolescence, increases the risk.

7. Lifestyle Factors:

• Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as a high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, may contribute to an increased risk.

8. Body Weight:

• Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause, is associated with an increased risk.

It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee the development of breast cancer, and many individuals with breast cancer have no apparent risk factors. If you need more specific information or details, feel free to ask.

Screening is the process of identifying individuals who may have a particular health condition or risk factor before symptoms appear, using tests or examinations to facilitate early detection

 and intervention.

American Cancer Society (ACS) provided the following general guidelines for breast cancer screening. It's important to note that guidelines may be updated, and it's advisable to consult with healthcare professionals the most current recommendations:

1. Mammography:

   - Annual mammograms for women starting at age 40, continuing as long as they are in good health and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years.

   - Women between the ages of 40 and 44 have the option to start screening mammograms, while those aged 45 to 54 are encouraged to have annual mammograms.

   - From age 55 and older, women can transition to biennial mammograms or continue with yearly screenings based on personal preferences and oncologist recommendations.

2. Clinical Breast Exam (CBE):

   - Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) is a hands-on check of the breasts done by a healthcare professional, like a doctor or nurse. They feel for lumps or changes in size, shape, or texture. CBE is often done alongside mammograms to assess breast health. The frequency can vary based on factors like age and risk. For women at higher risk, it's a valuable part of a comprehensive screening plan. CBE also includes education on breast health, encouraging women to be aware and report any changes promptly. Regular communication with healthcare providers is crucial for maintaining breast health. it is recommended to get it done every year along with the mammogram.

3. Breast Self-Exam (BSE):

   - Self Breast Examination (SBE) is a simple and important way for women to monitor their breast health. Here's a brief guide on how and when to do it:

How to do a Self Breast Examination (SBE):

-- Choose a Regular Time: Pick a consistent time each month, ideally a few days after your period when your breasts are less likely to be tender or swollen.

-- Use Your Fingers: Stand or sit in front of a mirror. Raise your arms and inspect your breasts visually for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture.

-- Check in the Shower: Use soapy hands to glide over your breasts. Feel for any lumps, changes in texture, or unusual tenderness. Use the pads of your fingers and make circular motions.

-- Examine While Lying Down: Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Use your left hand to check your right breast. Repeat on the other side.

-- Note Any Changes: Pay attention to any changes, such as new lumps, dimpling, swelling, or changes in nipple appearance. Report any concerns to your healthcare provider.

When to do Self Breast Examination (SBE):

-- Monthly Routine: Perform SBE once a month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period ends.

-- Postmenopausal Women: For women who no longer have a menstrual cycle, choose a specific day each month for the examination.

-- Consistency is Key: Regularity in performing SBE helps you become familiar with your breasts and detect any changes early.

Remember, while SBE is a useful tool for breast awareness, it is not a substitute for regular mammograms or clinical breast exams by healthcare professionals. If you notice any changes or have concerns, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

4. Individualized Decision-Making:

   - Women should make informed, shared decisions with their healthcare providers about when to start screening, the frequency of screening, and when to stop based on their personal values, preferences, and individual risk factors.

5. High-Risk Women:

   - Women at higher risk due to family history or genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2) should discuss personalized screening plans, including the potential use of additional imaging modalities or starting screening at an earlier age.

It's important for women to have open and informed discussions with their healthcare providers to tailor screening recommendations to their individual circumstances. Additionally, guidelines may be updated, so checking the latest recommendations from reputable sources like the American Cancer Society is advised.

Mastectomy surgery involves the removal of one or both breasts and is commonly performed for the treatment of breast cancer or as a preventive measure for individuals at high risk. Here's an overview for understanding mastectomy surgery:

Types of Mastectomy:

• Total (Simple) Mastectomy: Entire breast removal without axillary lymph node or pectoralis muscle tissue removal.
• Modified Radical Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast along with axillary lymph nodes, leaving chest muscles intact.
• Radical Mastectomy: Rarely performed in current times, involves removing the entire breast, underlying pectoralis muscle, and axillary lymph nodes.

The primary purpose is to remove and examine lymph nodes in the armpit (axilla) to assess if cancer has spread beyond the breast. Typically done during the same surgery as a mastectomy or lumpectomy, the surgeon removes a specific number of lymph nodes for examination. The results guide further treatment decisions.

Oncoplastic breast surgery is a specialized approach that combines principles of cancer surgery with plastic surgery techniques. Aimed at treating early-stage breast cancer, this method seeks to remove cancerous tissue while preserving or enhancing the appearance of the breast. It involves a multidisciplinary approach and includes procedures like lumpectomy with volume replacement. The goal is to achieve optimal functional and cosmetic outcomes for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.