Breast Cancer:Sign&Symptoms,Causes,Self Evaluation &Treatment

 

Signs & Symptoms:

1. Lump or Mass: The most common sign is the presence of a lump or mass in the breast or underarm.

2. Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Any noticeable change in the size or shape of the breast.

3. Pain in the Breast or Nipple: Unexplained pain in the breast or nipple.

4. Changes in the Skin: Skin changes such as redness, thickening, or dimpling.

5. Nipple Changes: Changes in the appearance of the nipple, such as inversion or discharge.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss may be a symptom of advanced breast cancer.

7. Persistent Fatigue: Ongoing fatigue that is not due to other factors.

Causes:

1. Genetic Factors: Inherited mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, increase the risk.

2. Age and Gender: Breast cancer risk increases with age, and women are more prone than men.

3. Family History: Having close relatives with a history of breast cancer increases the risk.

4. Personal History: A previous history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases can increase risk.

5. Hormonal Factors: Prolonged exposure to estrogen, whether from early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can elevate risk.

6. Radiation Exposure: Previous chest radiation treatment, especially during adolescence.

Self-Evaluation:

1. Breast Self-Exams (BSE): Regularly check your breasts for any changes, lumps, or abnormalities.

2. Clinical Breast Exams (CBE): Have regular clinical exams by a healthcare professional.

3. Mammograms: Follow recommended mammogram guidelines based on age and risk factors.

4. Know Your Risk: Understand your family history and other risk factors, and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Treatment:

1. Surgery: Removal of the tumor (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy).

2. Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to kill cancer cells or reduce the risk of recurrence.

3. Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells throughout the body.

4. Hormone Therapy: If the cancer is hormone-sensitive, hormonal medications may be used to block or lower hormone levels.

5. Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

6. Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to fight cancer cells.

7. Follow-up Care: Regular check-ups, monitoring, and ongoing care to detect any recurrence or new developments.