How to Identify Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. It is the most common cancer in women worldwide, but it can also affect men. Early detection is critical for successful treatment of breast cancer. In this article, we will discuss how to identify breast cancer, including its signs and symptoms, risk factors, screening, and diagnosis.


Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Symptom Breast

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit area. However, not all breast lumps are cancerous, and some women may have no symptoms at all. Other signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:


Changes in breast size or shape: The breast may become larger or smaller, or it may change shape.


Breast pain or tenderness: The breast may feel sore, tender, or painful.


Nipple discharge: A clear or bloody discharge may come from the nipple.


Nipple retraction: The nipple may turn inward or become inverted.


Skin changes: The skin of the breast may become red, swollen, or dimpled.


Breast skin thickening: The skin of the breast may become thicker or feel like an orange peel.


Rash or crusting: A rash or crusting may develop on the nipple or breast skin.


It is essential to note that these signs and symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as a breast infection or benign breast cysts. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor for evaluation.


Risk Factors for Breast Cancer


Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are modifiable, meaning you can take steps to reduce your risk, while others are not. The following are some of the most common risk factors for breast cancer:


Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age.


Gender: Breast cancer is more common in women than in men.


Family history: Having a first-degree relative (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer increases your risk.


Personal history: Having a personal history of breast cancer, particularly in one breast, increases your risk of developing cancer in the other breast.


Genetic mutations: Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of breast cancer.


Hormones: Women who have early menstruation, late menopause, or who have never given birth, have an increased risk of breast cancer.


Lifestyle factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity are also associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.


Breast Cancer Screening


Breast cancer screening involves the use of tests and exams to detect breast cancer in its early stages, before symptoms appear. The following are some of the screening tests used for breast cancer:


Mammogram: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. It can detect breast cancer in its early stages, before symptoms appear. The American Cancer Society recommends that women should start getting mammograms at age 45, and should continue to get them annually until age 54. After that, women should get mammograms every two years or continue to get them annually if they choose to do so.


Clinical breast exam: A clinical breast exam is a physical exam of the breast tissue by a healthcare provider. It can be done in conjunction with a mammogram, or on its own. The American Cancer Society recommends that women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam every three years, and women over 40 should have a clinical breast exam annually.


Breast self-exam: A breast self-exam is when a woman