Know These Causes & Symptoms of Breast Cancer

 

Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a complex disease, and its exact causes are not fully understood. However, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. For best insights onbreast cancer and the primary breast cancer symptoms, follow DocTubeTM. Here are some of the known risk factors and potential causes of breast cancer:

1. Genetic Factors

Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers (Martin, A.M. and Weber, B.L., 2000. Genetic and hormonal risk factors in breast cancer. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 92(14), pp.1126-1135). A family history of this cancer, particularly in close relatives like a mother, sister or daughter, can significantly increase the risk.

2. Hormonal Factors

Longer exposure to estrogen hormones, which can happen due to early menstruation, late menopause or hormone replacement therapy, is associated with an increased risk. Some forms of birth control and hormone replacement therapy may slightly increase breast cancer risk.

3. Age

It has been found that breast cancer risk increases as a person ages and most cases usually occur in women aged over 50. 

4. Gender

Breast cancer is far more common in women than in men. However, men can also develop breast cancer (Meister, K. and Morgan, J., 2000. Risk factors for breast cancer. Am Cncl on Science, Health).

5. Personal History

A previous history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases can increase the risk.

6. Radiation Exposure

Exposure to ionizing radiation, especially during adolescence, can increase the risk.

7. Dense Breast Tissue

Women having denser breast tissue is often thought to be at a higher risk.

8. Obesity

Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, is associated with an increased risk (James, F.R., Wootton, S., Jackson, A., Wiseman, M., Copson, E.R. and Cutress, R.I., 2015. Obesity in breast cancer–what is the risk factor?. European journal of cancer, 51(6), pp.705-720).

9. Alcohol Consumption

Regular and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of breast cancer.

10. Lack of Physical Activity

Sedentary lifestyles may contribute to a higher risk.

11. Environmental Factors

Exposure to certain environmental pollutants and chemicals may play a role in some cases.

12. Race and Ethnicity

Some racial and ethnic groups have different breast cancer risks (Amend, K., Hicks, D. and Ambrosone, C.B., 2006. Breast cancer in African-American women: differences in tumor biology from European-American women. Cancer research, 66(17), pp.8327-8330). For example, African-American women have a higher risk of developing more aggressive forms of breast cancer.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer 

Breast cancer can manifest with a variety of symptoms, and it is important to be aware of these breast cancer symptoms to seek prompt medical attention if necessary. Keep in mind that many breast changes are not cancer-related, but it is essential to have any unusual or persistent breast changes evaluated by a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. The most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

1. Lump in the Breast

The most common symptoms of breast cancer are the presence of new, painless lumps or mass in the breast. These can feel hard or have irregular edges.

2. Changes in Breast Size or Shape

Any unexplained changes in the size or shape of one or both breasts should be investigated (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).

3. Breast Pain or Discomfort

While breast cancer is not typically painful in its early stages, some women may experience breast pain or discomfort.

4. Skin Changes

Look for changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling, puckering or redness. Sometimes the skin may look like an orange peel (Koo, M.M., von Wagner, C., Abel, G.A., McPhail, S., Rubin, G.P. and Lyratzopoulos, G., 2017. Typical and atypical presenting symptoms of breast cancer and their associations with diagnostic intervals: Evidence from a national audit of cancer diagnosis. Cancer epidemiology, 48, pp.140-146).

5. Nipple Changes

Pay attention to any changes in the nipple, including:

• Nipple inversion wherein the nipple turns inward
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk), which may be bloody or clear
• Scaly, crusty, or rash-like changes around the nipple

6. Breast Swelling

Swelling, warmth or redness of the breast can be other breast cancer symptoms.

7. Lymph Node Enlargement

If breast cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes, you may notice swollen lymph nodes in the underarm or around the collarbone.

8. Nipple Retraction

The nipple may become flattened or pulled inward. These are other significant symptoms of breast cancer. 

9. Breast Skin Thickening

Thickening of the breast skin, often described as feeling like the skin of an orange, can be a sign of cancer (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).

10. Persistent Breast Pain

While breast cancer is not typically painful, persistent and unexplained breast pain should be evaluated.

It is important to remember that many breast changes may have benign causes. However, if you notice any of these symptoms or other unusual changes in your breasts that persist for more than a few weeks, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a clinical breast examination and if necessary, further diagnostic tests such as mammography, ultrasound or biopsy. Early detection and prompt medical attention can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment for breast cancer. Regular breast self-exams and mammograms as recommended by your healthcare provider can also aid in early detection.

FAQ

 

Which lifestyle factors helps to prevent breast cancer?

 

   

To prevent breast cancer, it is important to follow several lifestyle changes like limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, breast feeding and focussing on a healthy overall lifestyle.

 

 

Is breast cancer completely curable?

 

   

Breast cancer is usually curable and most people recover from it completely with the help of proper treatment. However, advanced cases of breast cancer may not be curable. Treatment has proved efffective in improving symptoms and prolonging a breast cancer patient’s life.