Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in the United States, causing 670,000 deaths globally in 2022. While this statistic might seem daunting, early detection and advancements in treatment offer a hopeful outlook. Thus, it becomes essential to understand the importance of knowledge and empowerment in navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. This blog explores the different types of breast cancer and risk factors and provides valuable information on managing your breast health.

Understanding Breast Cancer

Breast cancer originates in the breast tissue, usually starting in the milk ducts or lobules. Abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can spread to other body parts if left untreated.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is categorized based on where it starts and whether it has spread beyond the breast tissue. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This is the most prevalent type, starting in the milk ducts and spreading to nearby breast tissue.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This type originates in the milk-producing lobules and can also spread beyond the breast.
• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): These are abnormal cells confined to the milk ducts and haven't invaded surrounding tissue. DCIS is considered non-invasive but carries a higher risk of developing invasive cancer later.
• Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS): Similar to DCIS, LCIS refers to abnormal cells in the lobules that haven't spread. However, LCIS is not considered precancerous but may increase the risk of developing breast cancer in either breast.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of breast cancer can vary, but some common ones include:

• A lump in the breast or armpit
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or puckering
• Nipple discharge, other than breast milk
• Nipple retraction (turning inward)

The exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown. However, certain factors are believed to contribute to its development:

• Genetic mutations: Inherited changes in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase breast cancer risk.
• Hormonal factors: Exposure to estrogen over a longer period increases risk. This includes early menstruation, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, and alcohol consumption can contribute to breast cancer risk.
• Dense breasts: Breasts with more connective tissue than fatty tissue can make it harder to detect tumors on mammograms.

What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?

While some risk factors are beyond control, like family history and age, others can be managed:

• Age: Breast cancer risk increases significantly after age 50.
• Family history: Having a close relative with breast cancer raises your risk.
• Reproductive history: Early menstruation, late menopause, and having no children or having children later in life increase risk.
• Dense breasts: Dense breast tissue can mask tumors on mammograms.
• Lifestyle factors: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce risk.

How to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer?

Here are some ways to manage your breast cancer risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases estrogen levels, which can fuel cancer growth.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 2 hours of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise weekly.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase breast cancer risk.
• Breastfeeding: Studies suggest breastfeeding may reduce breast cancer risk.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Discuss the potential risks and benefits of HRT with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
• Consult your doctor about genetic testing: If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, consider genetic testing to identify gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Your doctor may recommend additional risk-reduction strategies like medications or preventive surgery, depending on the results.

Management and Treatments

Early detection is vital for successful breast cancer treatment. Regularly performing breast self-exams and scheduling routine mammograms are essential steps. If breast cancer is diagnosed, treatment options depend on various factors like the type and stage of cancer, your overall health, and personal preferences.

Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: This may involve removing the entire breast (mastectomy) or a portion of the breast (lumpectomy) with or without removal of lymph nodes in the armpit.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
• Hormone therapy: This targets hormone receptors on cancer cells, slowing or stopping their growth.
• Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells can be used in some cases.

Chesapeake Oncology-Hematology Associates: Your Reliable Partner in Breast Cancer Care

At Chesapeake Oncology-Hematology Associates, we are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Our team of board-certified medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and nurse practitioners work together to develop personalized treatment plans that address your individual needs and preferences. If you have concerns about your breast health or a family history of breast cancer, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. Early intervention can make a significant difference!