Symptoms & Causes of Cancer of the Breast

 

Over the years, the rates of breast cancer have increased exponentially among the population. Breast cancer is a kind of cancer that originates in the cells of the breast tissue. It primarily affects the cells lining the milk ducts or the cells of the milk-producing glands (Madaminov, M. and Shernazarov, F., 2022. Breast cancer detection methods, symptoms, causes, treatment. Science and innovation, 1(D8), pp.530-535). Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it is much more common in women. Cancer is usually characterized by uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells. In breast cancer, these abnormal cells can form a lump or mass within the breast tissue, which may be felt during self-examinations or detected through imaging techniques like mammograms. 

It is important to know the causes of cancer of the breast effectively. Breast cancer usually results from a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle choices and environmental exposures. Certain risk factors are often identified, such as age, family history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations, hormonal factors like early onset of menstruation, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy and exposure to ionizing radiation. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving the prognosis of breast cancer. Regular self-exams and mammograms are recommended for early detection. 

Symptoms of Breast Cancer 

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breast tissue. The symptoms of breast cancer can vary, and not everyone with breast cancer will experience the same symptoms. However, some of the more common symptoms and signs of breast cancer include: 

1. Lump or Thickening

The most common symptom is the presence of a lump or mass in the breast tissue (Burgess, C., Hunter, M.S. and Ramirez, A.J., 2001. A qualitative study of delay among women reporting symptoms of breast cancer. British journal of general practice, 51(473), pp.967-971). This lump may feel hard, painless and different from the surrounding tissue.

2. Change in Breast Size or Shape

Unexplained changes in the size or shape of one or both breasts may be a sign of breast cancer.

3. Pain or Discomfort

While breast cancer is not usually painful in its early stages, some people may experience pain, tenderness or discomfort in the breast or nipple.

4. Skin Changes

Changes in the skin over the breast, such as redness, dimpling, puckering or an orange-peel texture can be indicative of breast cancer.

5. Nipple Changes

Changes in the nipple, including inversion, scaling, crusting or abnormal discharge can be a sign of underlying breast cancer.

6. Nipple Discharge

Spontaneous nipple discharge that is bloody, clear or any color other than breast milk should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 

7. Swelling

Swelling of all or part of the breast, even if there is no noticeable lump, should be checked by a doctor (Vernon, S.W., Tilley, B.C., Neale, A.V. and Steinfeldt, L., 1985. Ethnicity, survival, and delay in seeking treatment for symptoms of breast cancer. Cancer, 55(7), pp.1563-1571).  

8. Lymph Node Changes

Enlarged lymph nodes under the arm or in the collarbone area can be a sign that breast cancer has spread.  

It is crucial to know that many of these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than breast cancer such as infections or benign growths. However, whenever you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. 

Regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams and mammograms are essential for early detection and improved outcomes in case of breast cancer.

Causes of Cancer of the Breast 

Cancer of the Breast is a multifactorial disease and its development is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, hormonal and lifestyle factors. While the exact causes of cancer of the breast can vary from person to person, researchers have identified several key factors that contribute to its occurrence. These factors include:

1. Genetic Mutations

Inherited genetic mutations significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer. These mutations are associated with an increased likelihood of other cancers as well.

2. Hormonal Factors

Hormones play a critical role in breast cancer development. Estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and affect breast tissue, can promote the growth of certain types of breast cancer (MacMahon, B., 2006. Epidemiology and the causes of breast cancer. International journal of cancer, 118(10), pp.2373-2378). Factors that increase lifetime exposure to estrogen, such as early onset of menstruation, late menopause and hormone replacement therapy, can contribute to the risk.

3. Age and Gender

Breast cancer risk increases with age, and the disease is more common in women. Although possible, breast cancer is quite uncommon in males.

4. Family History and Genetics

A family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives like mother, sister or daughter can increase the risk of the disease. Genetic mutations and hereditary factors can contribute to familial patterns of breast cancer.

5. Personal History of Breast Cancer

Individuals who have previously had breast cancer in one breast have a higher risk of developing cancer in the other breast. These are other common causes of cancer of the breast.

6. Radiation Exposure

Exposure to ionizing radiation, especially at a young age, increases the risk of breast cancer.

7. Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle choices can impact breast cancer risk, including:

i) Alcohol Consumption

Regular and excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk.

ii) Obesity

Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause, is linked to a higher risk of postmenopausal breast cancer.

iii) Physical Inactivity

Lack of regular physical activity is a risk factor.

iv) Diet

A diet high in saturated fats and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to an increased risk.

v) Reproductive Factors

Women who have never given birth or had their first child after the age of 30 have a slightly higher risk (Thomson, A.K., Heyworth, J.S., Girschik, J., Slevin, T., Saunders, C. and Fritschi, L., 2014. Beliefs and perceptions about the causes of breast cancer: a case-control study. BMC research notes, 7, pp.1-8).

vi) Hormone Replacement Therapy

Long-term use of combined hormone replacement therapy increases the risk of breast cancer.

vii) Breast Density

Women with dense breast tissue, as seen on mammograms, have a higher risk.

Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee the development of breast cancer. Many people without identifiable risk factors can also develop the disease. Regular breast screenings, early detection and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important for reducing the risk and improving outcomes for breast cancer.

 

How likely is breast cancer with family history?

 

   

A person with a family history of breast cancer is more likely to suffer from this disease as compared to someone who does not have such a family history. However, this is not a certainty.

 

 

To what extent do lifestyle factors increase the risk of breast cancer?

 

   

Lifestyle factors have a substantial impact on increasing the risk of breast cancer. Cigarette smoking, lack of proper diet and following a sedentary lifestyle increase risks for women. Having more fat tissues can raise estrogen levels thereby increasing the chances of developing breast cancer.