What Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer has for a long time been synonymous with women's health challenges. As a matter of fact, advances in the medical world, especially regarding breast cancer screening and treatment, have improved survival rates dramatically over the past few decades. The good news? The rate of breast cancer dropped by approximately 40% between 1989 and 2017. But here's the catch: a 2019 study indicated that this rate may no longer be declining among women aged 20-39 in the U.S.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors currently reside in the U.S. This data paints an optimistic picture, emphasizing the need for awareness about symptoms and the crucial role of screening in reducing mortality risks.

Spotting the Symptoms Early

Often, the earliest symptom of breast cancer is a thickened tissue in the breast or a lump in the breast or armpit. But it doesn't stop there. Other symptoms include persistent pain in the breast or armpit, skin changes on the breast resembling the surface of an orange, rash or discharge around the nipple, and even a sunken nipple. Not all lumps are cancerous. But if you find one, a healthcare professional should be your next stop.

Underlying Causes and Risk Factors

After puberty, a female's breast composition includes fat, connective tissue, and thousands of tiny milk-producing lobules. Mutations or damage to DNA, often influenced by factors such as estrogen exposure or inherited genetic defects like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, can lead to breast cancer. When these mutations occur, cells within the breast tissue multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor.

A myriad of factors can amplify the risk of developing breast cancer, including age, genetics, history of breast cancer, dense breast tissue, prolonged estrogen exposure, obesity, high alcohol consumption, radiation exposure, and certain hormone treatments.

Types, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Breast cancer is not monolithic; it has different types. Ductal carcinoma, which starts in a milk duct, is the most common. Depending on the spread, breast cancer can be "invasive" or "noninvasive."

Diagnosis usually follows a routine screening or if a patient reports symptoms. Procedures for diagnosis include breast exams, imaging tests like mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies.

Treatments differ based on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's age, and overall health. Options encompass radiation therapy, surgery, biological therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.

Survival Rates and Outlook

Survival rates provide a snapshot of how long breast cancer patients live post-diagnosis compared to those without the diagnosis. The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 90% of females diagnosed with breast cancer survive for at least 5 years after. However, these rates are general and don't dictate individual experiences or responses to treatments.

Despite being a leading cause of cancer death among women, the 5-year survival rate remains impressive. For optimal preventive measures, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regularly consulting with healthcare professionals about screenings is advisable, especially from age 40 onwards.

In conclusion, knowledge about breast cancer is our strongest weapon against it. The more we know, the better equipped we are to detect and beat it. It's a journey, but with advancements in the medical field and increased awareness, the path looks promising