Breast cancer is the type of cancer that forms in the breast cells and grows out of control. It can spread to different parts of the breast. Gradually, it can also blow out to other parts of the body through blood and lymph vessels. The breast has three main features, lobules that produce milk, ducts, the tubes that carry milk, and connective tissue that holds everything together.
Most breast tumors start in the ducts, so it is called ductal cancers. Tumour in lobules is known as lobules cancer. It's important to know that not all breast lumps are cancerous. Some are non-cancerous but with abnormal growth. But they do not spread outside the breast and are not life-threatening. That's why it's advisable to consult a doctor once you notice signs of breast cancer.
However, it is not a transmissible or infectious health condition, unlike cancers with infection-related causes such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer. If a breast lump is felt, it is very important to get it examined by a certified doctor to determine whether it is benign or malignant and whether it could trigger future cancer risk.
In addition, awareness of symptoms and regular screening are important ways to reduce the risk.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Though symptoms may vary from female to female, some most common warning signs are:
- Persistent pain in the breast or armpit area that does not depend on the menstrual cycle
- Redness of breast skin
- Rash on one or both nipples
- Change in breast size or shape
- Fluid discharge from the nipple that may contain blood
- Inverted nipple
- Scaling, peeling, or flaking of the skin on the breast or nipple
To learn and get more and more information about symptoms. Visit a doctor for a complete examination and consult that whatever you notice is a cause of concern.
The most common symptom of breast cancer can be seen as a lump in the breast or armpit area or a thick tissue in the breast.
Other Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The exact cause of breast cancer is still unclear, but certain risk factors make it more likely. Risk factors under your control should be prevented. Other breast cancer symptoms include:
Age- The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
Genetics- If it is in family history , the person's chances of developing breast cancer are increased.
History of Breast Cancer or Breast lump- Women who were previously diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to develop the disease.
Dense Breast Issue- Women with denser breasts should be more cautious because they are more likely to receive a breast cancer diagnosis.
Exposure to Estrogen and Breastfeeding- Extended exposure to estrogen increases the risk of breast cancer.
Bodyweight- Women who are overweight after menopause may also have a higher chance of developing breast cancer, possibly due to higher estrogen levels.
Alcohol Abuse- Regular and high amounts of alcohol consumption play a major role in developing breast cancer. Studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) have consistently found that women who consume alcohol have a higher risk of breast cancer than those who do not.
Radiation Exposure- Undergoing chemotherapy for different cancer may increase the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
Hormone Treatment- According to NCI studies, taking oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer.
Please note that some women can develop breast cancer without any risk factors. Having risk factors does not mean that you will get the disease, and not all risk factors will have the same effect.
When is the Right Time to Get Examined for Breast Cancer?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women in their 20s and 30s take a breast examination every three years. After the age of 40, it should be taken every year.
ACOG recommends that women do breast self-exams starting in their 20s. Women who decide to do a breast self-exam should have their technique done by a certified doctor. Any symptoms observed during breast self-exam should be reported to the doctor immediately. And women who are at increased risk of breast cancer should have an annual MRI of their breasts and their annual mammogram.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer in your family, your financial planning may be erratic. Care Health Insurance provides comprehensive cancer insurance coverage against certain forms of breast cancer depending on the policy’s terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: The coverage of breast cancer claims is subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.
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