It is a type of cancer that occurs with the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the breast tissue. It is usually noticed by a hard mass or an abnormal change in the breast. Although breast cancer is more common in women, it can also occur in men. Early diagnosis increases treatment success. Treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Risk factors include genetic predisposition and age.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
A painless hard mass felt in the breast or under the armpit is the most common symptom. A visible growth, shrinkage or asymmetry in the breast may be noticed. There may be discharge from the nipple, usually bloody or yellowish in color. The nipple may be pulled inwards or a change in the position of the nipple may be observed. Redness, thickening, orange peel appearance or swelling may be noticed on the breast skin. Pain or tenderness in the breast or armpit may be experienced, especially in the later stages. If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis ensures successful results in breast cancer treatment.
What Causes Breast Cancer?
Mutations in some genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk. People with a family history of breast cancer are more likely to have these mutations. Long-term exposure to hormones such as estrogen and progesterone may increase the risk. Starting menstruation at an early age, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy increase the risk. The risk increases with age. Especially women aged 50 and over are at higher risk. Factors such as obesity, unhealthy diet, alcohol consumption, smoking and lack of physical activity increase the risk. Receiving radiation therapy to the chest area at a young age may increase the risk. Each of these factors can increase the likelihood of developing cancer. However, not every woman may develop breast cancer even if she has these risk factors.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
The doctor physically checks for any lumps in the breast or armpit area. Mammography is the most commonly used imaging method for early diagnosis. Breast tissue is examined in detail using low doses of X-ray. A mass can be detected after mammography. In this case, ultrasound can be used to determine whether the masses are fluid-filled cysts or solid tumors. In cases where more detailed examination is required, MRI is used in women with dense breast tissue. A biopsy is performed for the definitive diagnosis of a suspicious mass. During the biopsy, a small sample of breast tissue is examined in the laboratory. Genetic predisposition tests such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are performed in individuals with a family history of breast cancer. With these methods, cancer can be detected at an early stage, which increases the chance of treatment.
Lumpectomy is the process of removing the cancerous area and surrounding tissue. It is done for breast protection purposes. Mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which the entire breast is removed. Depending on the spread of the disease, full or partial mastectomy can be performed. After surgery, high doses of radiation are applied to destroy remaining cancer cells. It may be recommended after breast-conserving surgery or after mastectomy. Chemotherapy is a drug treatment used to kill cancer cells. It can be applied before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) surgery. Hormone therapy is the method used to prevent the growth of cancer cells. It is effective in cancer types that are sensitive to hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Targeted therapies target the specific protein that contributes to the growth of cancer cells. For example, the treatment used in cases of HER2-positive breast cancer falls into this category. Immunotherapy is a treatment that strengthens the body's immune system and enables it to fight against cancer cells. It is generally used for advanced stages. These methods can be applied alone or in combination. The most appropriate treatment plan is determined by the doctor according to the patient's condition.