Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both men and women, although it is much more common in women. Breast cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the breast tissue, which can form a mass or lump, and if left untreated, these cancer cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Types of Breast Cancer
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS):
Early-stage cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but have not invaded surrounding tissues.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC):
The most common type, where cancer cells invade nearby tissues in the breast. Most invasive breast cancers have no special features and are classed as No Special Type (NST).
Triple negative breast cancer:
The breast cancer cells don’t have receptors for the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, or the protein called Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2).
Inflammatory breast cancer:
This is a rare type of breast cancer. The breast might look swollen and red (inflamed) and may feel warm.
Paget’s disease of the breast:
A rare condition of the nipple that is associated with some breast cancers. It is also known as Paget’s disease of the nipple or mammary Paget’s disease.
Breast cancer in men:
Men can also develop rarer types of breast cancer, but these are very rare. They include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive lobular carcinoma and Paget’s disease of the breast.
Related breast conditions that are not breast cancer:
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS): LCIS isn’t cancer. LCIS means that some cells lining the lobules of the breast tissue have started to become abnormal.
Intraductal papilloma: Intraductal papilloma is a benign breast condition.
Atypical hyperplasia in a breast lump: Atypical hyperplasia is when the cells in the breast increase in number and also develop an unusual shape.
Symptoms of breast cancer:
Lump or mass: The most common symptom is the presence of a painless lump or mass in the breast or underarm. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new or unusual lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Changes in breast size or shape: Breast cancer may cause changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
Changes in skin texture: Dimpling, redness, or other changes in the skin texture of the breast may indicate breast cancer.
Nipple changes: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge (other than breast milk), or skin changes around the nipple, can be signs of breast cancer.
Breast pain: While not always a symptom of breast cancer, persistent breast pain or discomfort should be evaluated.
Unexplained weight loss: In advanced stages, unexplained weight loss and fatigue may occur.
Swelling in the breast or underarm: Swelling or enlargement of the breast or underarm may be a symptom.
Changes in breast appearance: Regular breast self-exams may help detect any changes in the breast tissue.
It’s important to note that not all symptoms necessarily indicate breast cancer, and some women may not experience any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, is crucial for improved outcomes. If any concerning symptoms are observed, individuals should promptly consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate diagnostic tests.