Breast Cancer is an abnormal cell growth in the breast. Breast Cancer can affect men and women. 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and 1 % of men above age 35 will develop breast cancer. Although it frequently presents as a lump, it can also be more subtle than that. In actuality, breast cancer is a complex foe that not only harms individuals but also whole communities. This October, as we create awareness about breast cancer it's critical to examine the complexities of this illness and consider how we can work together to fight it.
Unraveling the Essentials
In this blog post, we will clarify four important points.
-
Understanding Breast Cancer: The Meaning of Breast Cancer: What Is It, and Why Is It So Common?
-
Risk Factors: What are the main elements that raise the risk of breast cancer?
-
Clinical Presentation: What are the typical clinical signs of breast cancer and why is early identification so important?
-
Prevention: What actions can each of us individually and collectively take to lower the prevalence of breast cancer?
Incidence: The Global Impact
Breast cancer is a matter of global concern that affects women everywhere. Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women, according to GLOBOCAN 2020, with alarming 2,261,419 new cases (24.5%) and 684,996 fatalities worldwide. Surprisingly, breast cancer is responsible for one in six of all cancer-related fatalities among females. The second most frequent cancer in women, only behind cervical cancer. The key to combating breast cancer is awareness and action.
Risk Factors
An essential first step in preventing breast cancer is understanding risk factors. Several of the recognized risk factors include:
-
Early menstrual onset (before age 11) and a late menopause (beyond age 54).
-
First childbirth occurs later in life (after 40 years).
-
Certain breast conditions, such as palpable cysts, complex fibroadenoma, and duct papilloma.
-
Exposure to ionizing radiation to the chest, as seen in Hodgkin lymphoma treatment.
-
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after breast cancer.
-
Obesity (affecting about 50% of postmenopausal women).
-
Alcohol intake (affecting about 10 to 20% of premenopausal women).
-
Genetic predisposition, including mutations in critical genes.
Understanding the Beast Within Through Pathology
Breast lumps are the classic sign of breast cancer. It can be everywhere, although the top outside quadrant is the most typical (50%). Determining elements that affect treatment choices, such as the status of the HER-2 gene and the estrogen and progesterone receptors, requires immunohistochemistry (IHC).
A Multifaceted Approach to Treatment
A variety of interventions are included in the therapy options for breast cancer:
-
Chemotherapy
-
Radiotherapy
-
Hormone therapy
-
Surgery (including mastectomy)
-
Plastic surgery for reconstruction
The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage and type of cancer.
Screening and Prevention: Our Best Defense
The key to effective treatment is early detection. The following screening techniques are advised:
-
Annual mammographic screening (most effective for women over 40).
-
Monthly breast self-examination.
-
Annual clinical examination by a healthcare professional.
Prevention: Empowerment through Knowledge
A crucial part of our fight against breast cancer is prevention:
-
Chemoprevention and prophylactic surgery may be considered for high-risk individuals.
-
Estrogen antagonists like Tamoxifen and Raloxifene can reduce incidence but may have side effects.
-
Prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Hope
Breast cancer can be overcome. Regular screening, awareness, and early detection can save lives. Understanding the risk factors, clinical presentation, and preventive actions can help us fight this strong foe proactively. Let's work together to lessen the effects of breast cancer, strengthen our communities, and provide hope for a healthier future as we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
References & Credits:
Hanna, L., Cosby, T., Macbeth, F. (2008).
Practical clinical oncology(eighth ed.).
United States of America. GLOBOCAN, U. (2020).
New Global Cancer Data. Bahnassy, A. A., Abdellateif, M. S., & Zekri, A. R. N. (2020).
Cancer in Africa: Is It a Genetic or Environmental Health Problem?.
Frontiers in Oncology, 2508.
TTH Oncology Department.
Image Credits:
www.google.com/search/images
www.freepik.com