SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
While most early-stage breast cancers in the world are detected through mammography before any symptoms occur, some cases are still discovered through warning signs. Thus, it's vital to be conscious of the warning signs and promptly seek medical attention if you notice any breast changes.
It's essential to note that these warning signs vary among women, but commonly include alterations in the appearance or texture of the breast, nipple, or nipple discharge.
If you have any of the warning signs described above, see a health care provider !
FACTS & STATISTICS
Cancer happens when the body's natural cell creation, growth, and death systems malfunction, resulting in excessive cell growth, which can form a tumor.
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Breast cancer occurs when breast cells divide and grow uncontrollably, typically resulting in slow-growing tumors.
However, some tumors can be aggressive and develop faster. Although most cancers in the breast are breast carcinomas, other rare types like lymphomas and sarcomas can occur, and cancers from other areas can also spread to the breast.
These cancers have different risk factors and treatments than breast carcinomas.
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RISK FACTORS
Healthcare providers estimate breast cancer risk by assessing the severity of risk factors a patient may have, such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 inherited gene mutation, which greatly increases the risk of breast cancer.
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Most risk factors, however, are only linked to a modest increase in risk. Currently, the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool, also known as the Gail model, is used to estimate risk based on seven factors, including age, family history, and race.
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Women with a 5-year risk of 1.67% or higher are classified as high-risk and may be recommended a risk-lowering drug. It's essential to note that the tool cannot predict if a woman will develop breast cancer or calculate individual risk.
SCREENING & EARLY DETECTION
If you feel a lump or notice a change in your breast, it's important to get it checked by a health care provider. Most lumps are not cancerous and could be a benign breast condition.
Some lumps go away on their own, but if you feel a hard lump or notice a change that doesn't go away, it could be a sign of breast cancer. Similarly, nipple discharge can be normal, but see a health care provider if the discharge occurs without squeezing the nipple, is only in one breast, or is bloody or clear.
Other warning signs of breast cancer include changes in breast size, shape, skin, and nipple, as well as new pain that doesn't go away. If you're not sure whether to get a lump or change checked, see a health care provider.
DIAGNOSIS
If you find a lump or have an abnormal result on a breast screening test, you may need follow-up tests or a biopsy to check for breast cancer. A biopsy is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of breast cancer.
However, most biopsy results don't show breast cancer. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, it's important to understand your diagnosis and the factors that will affect your treatment, including the type and stage of breast cancer.
This will help you make informed decisions about your treatment in collaboration with your doctor.
A biopsy is a medical procedure that involves taking a sample of cells or tissue from a suspicious area of the breast to determine if cancer is present.
There are two types of biopsies: needle and surgical. The tissue sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, and the results are sent to your doctor in a pathology report. Waiting for the results can be difficult, but if breast cancer is found, it's important to understand your diagnosis and discuss treatment options with your doctor.
TREATMENT
Starting breast cancer treatment can be overwhelming. It's essential to understand your treatment options based on your unique diagnosis and personal choices.
Each option has benefits and risks, along with your own values and lifestyle.
Making informed decisions in partnership with your doctor is crucial. Completing your treatment plan is essential as those who do have a higher chance of survival.
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Types of Breast Cancer Treatment:
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DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) requires treatment as it can progress to invasive cancer
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Early invasive breast cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, HER2-targeted therapy, CDK4/6 inhibitor therapy, immunotherapy, or PARP inhibitor therapy
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Metastatic breast cancer is treated with drug therapies to maintain quality of life and extend life
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Breast cancer recurrence risk varies and should be discussed with a doctor
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Young women with breast cancer have good chances of survival but may have concerns about fertility and other issues
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Men have a similar prognosis to women but are often diagnosed at a later stage
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Clinical trials are ongoing to improve breast cancer treatment
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Targeted therapies are a promising emerging area of breast cancer treatment.
SURVIVORSHIP TOPICS
Being diagnosed with breast cancer puts you in the company of over 4 million breast cancer survivors and those currently living with the disease in the U.S.
According to Susan G. Komen®, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute, anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer is considered a survivor. However, not everyone may identify with the term or see themselves as such.
Survivors may face unique challenges and concerns during and after treatment, but there are resources available to help cope with these issues.
Follow-up care with your healthcare team, which may include physical exams, mammograms, and bone health tests, is important after completing breast cancer treatment. Regular check-ins with your doctor and addressing any concerns that arise can help ensure a healthy recovery.
MENTAL WELLBEING FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
It is essential to prioritize the mental health of healthcare professionals who work with breast cancer patients. These professionals can experience high levels of stress and burnout, which can lead to negative impacts on patient care and outcomes.
By providing support and resources for their mental well-being, healthcare professionals can better manage the emotional demands of their work and provide better care for their patients.
AWARENESS
& PREVENTION
Breast cancer is a common and serious disease that affects millions of people globally. Knowing its signs, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
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Survivorship and support are equally important for those who have undergone treatment and those who are providing those treatments in a long run as they both can face physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. Being informed and having access to resources can greatly aid in coping and recovery.