Breast cancer affects millions of women worldwide every year. This disease is the most frequently diagnosed form of cancer in women, with its spread promoted by several factors. Biological characteristics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle choices play a significant role. Because of this, it is important to understand the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures of breast cancer in order to increase the chances of early detection.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the tissues of the mammary gland. This disease usually begins in the milk ducts or glandular lobules where breast milk is produced. Breast cancer cells multiply uncontrollably and can spread to other parts of the body if the disease is not detected early.
Several factors influence the development of breast cancer. Genetic mutations, such as in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase the risk of the disease. Hormonal changes, including fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, can also promote the growth of cancer cells. In addition, environmental factors and lifestyle choices, such as diet, alcohol consumption, and physical activity, play an important role.
Breast cancer is not just a single disease, but has different subtypes. These subtypes are determined according to the characteristics of the tumor cells and their response to hormones. For example, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer responds to hormone therapy options, while triple-negative breast cancer is more aggressive and requires a different approach.
Risk factors for breast cancer
Breast cancer development is influenced by several risk factors, which can be genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle-related. Although not all factors can be controlled, awareness of them helps reduce the risk of the disease.
Heredity plays a significant role in breast cancer. If close relatives, such as a mother or sister, have been diagnosed with breast cancer, an individual's own risk also increases. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the best-known genetic factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Hormonal changes, especially the increase in estrogen and progesterone levels, can promote the growth of cancer cells. Early onset of menstruation and late menopause prolong the body's exposure to these hormones, which increases the risk of breast cancer. Scientific research has confirmed that hormonal factors play a significant role in increasing the development of breast cancer (Lukasiewicz et al., 2021).
Lifestyle choices play an important role in breast cancer prevention. Being overweight, especially after menopause, increases the risk because adipose tissue produces estrogen. Excessive alcohol consumption and low physical activity are also significant risk factors.
Although risk factors increase the likelihood of breast cancer, their presence does not always mean the disease will develop. Likewise, breast cancer can develop even without known risk factors.
Main symptoms
Early detection of breast cancer largely depends on knowing the symptoms. Although some symptoms may be mild or unnoticeable, it is important to pay attention to any changes in the breast or in general well-being.
Physical changes in the breast
Breast cancer can cause noticeable changes in the appearance or texture of the breast. For example, there may be:
A persistent lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
Changes related to the size or shape of the breast.
Skin texture changes, such as an orange peel-like surface.
Retraction of the nipple or a change in its position.
Nipple discharge, which can be bloody or transparent.
These changes do not always indicate cancer, but if they appear, you should consult a doctor.
Pain and discomfort
Breast cancer does not always cause pain, but in some cases, the following may occur:
Persistent pain in the chest or armpit.
Discomfort not related to the menstrual cycle.
Sensitivity or burning sensation in the chest.
Pain is not always a sign of breast cancer, but it may indicate the need for further examinations.
Other symptoms to monitor
In addition to physical changes and pain, other symptoms may also occur, such as:
Breast or armpit swelling.
Redness or skin irritation on the chest.
General fatigue or unexplained weight loss.
Screenings
Screenings are a traditional method that enables the detection of changes in breast tissues, providing an opportunity to intervene before the disease progresses. These examinations help provide valuable information to make informed decisions regarding further monitoring and, if necessary, treatment.
Main screening methods
Mammography
Mammography is the most common method for detecting breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to detect changes in breast tissue that cannot be palpated. Mammography is generally recommended for women starting from the age of 50, but it may be performed earlier for women in high-risk groups.Ultrasound examination
Ultrasound is often used as an adjunct to mammography, especially in younger women who have denser breast tissue. This method helps differentiate between cysts and solid tumors.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is a very sensitive method used for high-risk patients or when the results of mammography and ultrasound are unclear.
How to prevent?
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle plays an important role in breast cancer prevention. Diet, weight management, and limiting alcohol consumption are important steps. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can reduce the risk of cancer.
Should be avoidedProcessed foods, excess sugar, and saturated fats.
Preference should be givenAntioxidant-rich foods such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens.
Maintaining body weight is especially important after menopause, as excess weight increases estrogen production, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.
Regular physical activity
Regular physical activity is one of the effective ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Physical activity helps balance hormone levels and strengthen the immune system, which can help protect the body against the development of cancer cells.
The effects of physical activity are not limited to weight control, but it also promotes better blood circulation and reduces inflammation levels in the body. The most effective activities are moderate-intensity activities, such as walking, swimming, or light jogging, which are recommended to be done for at least 150 minutes a week.
Medical diagnostics
Breast cancer prevention and early detection depend largely on effective diagnostic methods. Traditional screenings are important when cancer is suspected, but there are also supplementary methods that help identify breast cancer risk early. One such method is the use of a cancer test that analyzes specific biomarkers in blood or other bodily fluids that may indicate the presence of breast cancer.
Such tests act as a supplement to traditional methods, such as medical examinations, and offer the potential to identify breast cancer risks at an early stage, before other screenings have yet raised alarms. Although these tests do not replace regular medical monitoring, they can provide valuable information and help reduce the risk of discovering the disease at a later stage.
Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the mammary gland and whose development is influenced by genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle-related factors. Early detection of breast cancer is important, which is why, in addition to traditional methods, additional cancer tests help to detect risks at an early stage.
