October, also called the “pink month”, is that time of the year when we spread awareness for breast cancer, the warning signs, therapies available, and provide support for all breast cancer warriors and survivors all over the world. In the mood of the pink month, we’ll be going into the details of breast cancer and what its all about.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer. It’s a term that can bring a mix of emotions—fear, concern, and curiosity. But what exactly is breast cancer, and why is it so important to talk about it openly? In the simplest terms, breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells, and sometimes, these cells don’t behave as they should. They start growing uncontrollably, forming a mass of cells known as a tumor. When this happens in the breast tissue, it’s called breast cancer. Breast cancer is a very common cancer that occurs among both men and women.
Types of breast cancer:
Breast cancer isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. There are several types, and knowing which type someone has is important for treatment. The common types are:
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
This type starts in the ducts (the tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and then spreads to nearby breast tissue. It’s the most common form of breast cancer.
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
This type of breast cancer begins in the milk ducts, just like invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).
However, unlike IDC, DCIS stays within the ducts and does not spread to other tissues.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
This type begins in the lobules, which are the glands that produce milk, and can spread to other areas of the breast.
There are other, less common types and they include:
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
This is an aggressive form of invasive cancer that tends to spread faster than other types.
Paget’s disease of the breast
This rare cancer affects the skin of the nipple and can look like a rash. It accounts for less than 4% of all breast cancers.
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)
A rare, fast-growing cancer that often appears as a rash on the breast, it is uncommon in the United States.
Can men have breast cancer?
Yes, anyone can get breast cancer regardless of sex. Even though men don’t have breasts in the same way women do, they still have a small amount of breast tissue, where cancer can form. Male breast cancer is much less common than it is in women (about 1% of all breast cancer cases), and most cases are diagnosed between the ages of 60 and 70.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer:
Breast cancer symptoms can vary from person to person, and some may not notice any signs at all.
Here are some symptoms to be aware of:
A Lump or Thickening in the Breast
Probably the most well-known symptom, a lump in the breast (or even under the arm) can be a sign of breast cancer. Now, not all lumps are cause for alarm—many are benign. But if you feel something that wasn’t there before or seems unusual, it’s time to check in with your doctor.
Changes in Breast Size or Shape
Our bodies are constantly changing, but if you notice that one breast is suddenly larger or shaped differently, take note. These changes can sometimes be subtle, so it helps to be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. This way, you’ll be able to spot anything out of the ordinary more quickly.
Skin Changes on the Breast
Any dimpling or puckering of the skin can be a warning sign. Sometimes, the skin may start to resemble the texture of an orange peel, which could indicate an underlying issue.
Nipple Discharge
If you’re not breastfeeding or pregnant, nipple discharge can be a sign to investigate. The discharge may be clear, yellow, or even tinged with blood. While this can be related to other conditions, such as an infection, it’s always wise to let your doctor evaluate it.
Inverted or Changing Nipples
Some people naturally have inverted nipples, which isn’t a cause for concern. But if your nipples suddenly change direction or become inverted when they weren’t before, it’s something to look into.
Pain or Tenderness in the Breast
Breast pain isn’t always linked to cancer, especially since many people experience discomfort during hormonal changes or menstrual cycles. However, if the pain feels different or persists without explanation, it’s a good idea to get it evaluated.
Swelling in the Breast or Armpit
Swelling in your breast or armpit area, even without a noticeable lump, can be a symptom of breast cancer. If you notice unusual swelling, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your healthcare provider.
Unexplained Skin Sores or Rashes
Persistent sores, rashes, or even ulcers on the breast that don’t heal should not be ignored. Sometimes, these can be signs of an inflammatory form of breast cancer. While rashes can be caused by many things, it’s better to rule out any serious conditions.
Early Detection is Key!
Early detection, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is a major pillar in reducing deaths from breast cancer. In other words, the earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. In its earliest stages, breast cancer is often confined to a small area, making it easier to target with treatments like surgery, radiation, or even less invasive options. By the time it spreads, it can be tougher to treat, requiring more aggressive treatments and posing a higher risk.
Self-breast exam
You know your body better than anyone else. While routine check-ups and mammograms are important, self-breast exams can help you notice any changes in between those appointments.
The best time to perform a self-breast exam is a few days after your menstrual period ends,
when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. If you’re not menstruating, pick a day each month that’s easy to remember, like the first of the month.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Self-Breast Examination:
Start by Looking
Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms by your sides.
Look at your breasts. Notice their size, shape, and color. It’s normal for breasts to have slight differences in size or shape, but if you notice anything unusual—like dimpling, swelling, or nipple changes—make a mental note of it.
Raise your arms over your head and look for the same changes. This position helps you see any changes in your breasts’ shape or contour.
Use Your Hands to Feel for Changes
Lie down on your back and use the pads of your fingers to feel for any lumps or unusual thickness in your breast tissue.
Use your right hand to examine your left breast and your left hand for your right breast.
Move your fingers in small, circular motions, about the size of a quarter. You want to cover the entire breast area—from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.
Use varying pressure: light pressure to feel just beneath the skin, medium pressure to feel deeper into the tissue, and firm pressure to check the tissue closest to your chest and ribs.
Check While in the Shower
Some women find it easiest to feel their breasts while they are in the shower. The water and soap can make it easier to feel any unusual changes.
Just like when lying down, use circular motions and different levels of pressure to check for lumps or thickening. While it’s common for breasts to feel lumpy or tender during certain times of the month, keep an eye out for anything that feels different from the norm.
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Regular screenings can help identify cancer in its earliest stages, sometimes even before
symptoms appear. Here are some common screening methods for breast cancer:
Clinical breast exam (Done by your healthcare provider)
Mammograms (X-ray of the breast)
Breast ultrasound
Breast MRI
Breast biopsy
Genetic studies (for breast cancer genes like BRCA)
When to Start Breast Cancer Screening:
If you're in good health and have no family history of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends starting regular mammograms at age 45. You can choose to begin earlier, at age 40. If you have a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting screenings earlier—sometimes in your 30s. In certain cases, more frequent mammograms or additional imaging, like breast MRI, might also be advised.
How is Breast Cancer Treated?
Surgery
The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue. Depending on the type and stage of breast cancer, there are two main surgical options:
Lumpectomy (Breast-conserving surgery)
Mastectomy
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It’s usually done after surgery, especially after a lumpectomy, to ensure any remaining cancer cells are destroyed.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (or "chemo") uses drugs to kill cancer cells that might still be in the body after surgery or to shrink tumors before surgery.
Hormone therapy
Some breast cancers grow in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone.
If that’s the case, hormone therapy can block the production or effects of these hormones, essentially cutting off the cancer's fuel supply.
Targeted therapy
Unlike chemotherapy, which attacks all fast-growing cells, targeted therapies focus on specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as proteins or genetic mutations that allow them to grow.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps your own immune system recognize and fight cancer cells.
This therapy is typically used for certain types of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer.
In many cases, breast cancer treatment involves a combination of therapies.
How to Lower Your Risk?
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Focus on making small, sustainable changes in your diet. Swap out sugary drinks for water, or try adding a serving of vegetables to each meal.
Stay Active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking, or 75 minutes of more intense exercise, like jogging, each week.
Limit Alcohol
The World Health Organization (WHO) noted alcohol intake to be an important risk factor for breast cancer. It is best to limit or completely quit alcohol intake.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is linked to a higher risk of many cancers, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking can help lower your risk.
Know Your Family History
Having a close family member with breast cancer can increase your risk. Talk to your doctor about your family’s health history to determine whether genetic testing or earlier screening might be beneficial for you.
Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Some forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase breast cancer risk, especially if used long-term. If you’re considering HRT to manage menopause symptoms, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits, and explore alternative options if necessary.
Stay On Top of Screenings
Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams can help catch any potential issues early, when they’re most treatable.
Self-breast exams can also be a helpful way to stay familiar with how your breasts normally feel, so you can detect any changes early.
Bottom Line
Talking about breast cancer openly is one of the most powerful ways we can support each other, raise awareness, and encourage early detection. Whether you're learning about it for the first time, supporting a loved one, or working through your own diagnosis, remember that you're not alone.
The good news? Survival rates for breast cancer have improved significantly over the years,
thanks to early detection and advancements in treatment. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for
breast cancer is 91.2%!
So, let’s keep talking, supporting, and spreading hope—because awareness truly saves lives.
References
Breast cancer. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer. Accessed September 27, 2024.
ACS Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines. ACS Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines | American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html. Accessed September 27, 2024.
Alcohol is one of the biggest risk factors for breast cancer. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/20-10-2021-alcohol-is-one-of-the-biggest-risk-factors-for-breast-cancer. Accessed September 7, 2024.
Does smoking cause breast cancer? National Breast Cancer Foundation. https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-faqs/does-smoking-cause-breast-cancer/. Published January 17, 2024. Accessed September 7, 2024.
HealthfulHelps Editors. Breast cancer survival rates 2024. HealthfulHelps. https://healthfulhelps.com/breast-cancer-survival-rates-2024/. Published September 23, 2024. Accessed September 7, 2024.
I am Nancy, a medical doctor, writer and graphic designer who is dedicated to making a difference in the world of healthcare communication—whether that’s through the written word, striking visuals, or a combination of both.
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