It is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably. When detected at an early stage, the chance of cure is quite high. Regular screenings are especially important for women with a family history of breast cancer. Breast cancer is diagnosed with diagnostic methods such as mammography, ultrasound and biopsy.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer is a disease that can be treated with early diagnosis. Therefore, it is very important to know the symptoms of breast cancer and not to neglect regular check-ups.
1. Feeling a mass in the breast or armpit: The most common symptom is a hard mass in the breast or armpit. It is usually painless and can grow over time. The mass may not have regular borders and may have a different structure than the surrounding tissues.
2. Change in breast shape or size: It can cause changes in the breast tissue. If you notice a sudden increase in breast size or deformity, it could be a symptom.
3. Changes in the skin of the breast: Redness, thickening, and flaking of the skin of the breast are among the signs of cancer. These changes in the skin can be caused by tumors, especially under the skin.
4. Changes in the nipple: Nipple depression, retraction, itching or sores may be signs of breast cancer. Also, bloody or clear discharge from the nipple is a symptom to watch out for.
5. Pain: Although breast cancer usually starts without pain, in later stages a constant feeling of pain may occur in the breast or armpit. Pain may increase, especially when the tumor compresses the nerves.
If you notice one or more of the symptoms of breast cancer, you should consult a health professional. Remember, early diagnosis increases the chance of treatment and can prevent the spread of cancer.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Breast cancer is a serious disease that affects both women and, rarely, men. While each individual's risk of developing breast cancer is different, certain factors can increase that risk.
1. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Women, especially those aged 50 and over, are at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Therefore, regular checkups become more important with age.
2. Family history of breast cancer: If you have a first-degree relative with breast cancer, your risk increases. The risk is especially high in people with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
3. Genetic factors: Some genetic mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. It is recommended that people with a genetic predisposition receive regular medical check-ups.
4. Hormonal factors: Starting menstruation at an early age (before age 12) or entering menopause at a late age (after age 55) increases the risk. Also, taking birth control pills or hormone treatments are factors that increase the risk.
5. Giving birth at a later age or not giving birth: The risk is higher in women who have their first child after the age of 30 and in women who have never given birth.
6. Obesity and poor diet: Obesity increases the risk of breast cancer, especially in the postmenopausal period. High fat content, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle are also factors that increase the risk.
7. Alcohol consumption and smoking: Regular alcohol consumption and smoking increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
Breast cancer risk factors may vary from person to person. However, even if risk factors are present, it can be diagnosed early thanks to a healthy lifestyle, regular checkups and awareness.
Breast Cancer Treatment Options
Breast cancer is a treatable disease when detected early. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, the patient's general health, and personal preferences.
Lumpectomy: Removal of only the cancerous mass and a small piece of surrounding tissue. This method preserves the breast and is usually preferred for early-stage cancers.
Mastectomy: The procedure to remove the entire breast containing cancerous tissue. There are several types of mastectomy. In some patients, only breast tissue is removed, while in others, muscles and lymph nodes may also be removed.
2. Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy): Uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It is usually used to eliminate remaining cancer cells after surgery. It is especially frequently used after lumpectomy.
3. Chemotherapy: It is used to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. It is used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to prevent the spread of cancer. The drugs are given intravenously and spread throughout the body and affect the cancer cells.
4. Hormone Therapy: Some types of breast cancer can be sensitive to hormones. In these types of cancers, hormone levels are lowered or hormones are prevented from reaching the cancer cells. This treatment is especially effective in estrogen or progesterone receptor positive cancers.
5. Targeted Therapy: This is a method in which drugs are used that target specific molecules found in cancer cells. This treatment has fewer side effects than chemotherapy. It is generally preferred in more advanced cancers or those with certain mutations.
Breast cancer treatment options may vary depending on individual characteristics. When deciding on treatment, doctors consider the stage of the disease, the size of the tumor, its spread, and health status.
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