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Breast Cancer: Complete Guide for a Healthy Life

by Stephen Pantazopoulos

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide. In the United States, it is the second most common cancer after skin cancer. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it is most common in women. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, the global incidence of breast cancer is projected to reach nearly 27 million cases by 2040.

The good news is that breast cancer can be successfully treated if detected early. There are a number of ways to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, and early detection is key.

If you have any concerns about your risk of breast cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor. In the meantime, you can find more information and resources in this complete guide. We will try to cover everything you need to know about breast cancer – from risk factors and symptoms to treatment and prevention.

Complete Guide of Breast Cancer

Types

It can be classified into two primary categories: invasive breast cancer and non-invasive breast cancer.

There are also several subtypes of breast cancer, which are classified based on the type of cells that are affected.

 

Invasive Breast Cancer Types

Invasive breast cancer is the more serious type of breast cancer, as it can spread to other parts of the body.

Invasive ductal carcinoma

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer. It starts in the milk ducts and spreads to the surrounding breast tissue. IDC is also known as infiltrating ductal carcinoma.

IDC makes up about 80% of all breast cancers. Most IDCs are found during a mammogram before they can be seen or felt. IDC can occur in any age group, but it is most common in women over the age of 50.

Invasive lobular carcinoma

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 10-15% of all cases. ILC is a malignant tumor that starts in the milk-producing lobules of the breast and can spread to other tissues. ILC is typically diagnosed at a later stage than other types of breast cancer, as the tumors are often small and difficult to detect. Treatment for ILC may include surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy.

Inflammatory breast cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a particularly aggressive and difficult to treat this form of the disease.

IBC is characterized by the Infiltration of cancer cells into the lymphatics of the skin of the breast, which leads to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected breast. IBC is often misdiagnosed as an infection or other benign condition, which can delay treatment and lead to worse outcomes.

If you or someone you know has symptoms of IBC, it is important to see a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. While IBC is a very serious cancer, it is also very treatable if caught early.

Paget’s disease of the breast

Paget’s disease of the breast is a rare condition that affects the nipple and areola. The nipple and areola are the dark brown or black circles around the nipple. Paget’s disease usually starts as a rash or eczema on the nipple. It can also cause the nipple to itch, burn, or feel painful. The nipple may also leak fluid or bleed. Paget’s disease can also cause the areola to enlarge and become misshapen. Paget’s disease is a type of cancer, but it is not breast cancer. Paget’s disease is a cancer of the nipple and areola.

Angiosarcoma of the breast

Angiosarcoma of the breast, is a very rare and aggressive form of the disease. typically occurs in older women, and it is often diagnosed at a late stage. This is because the symptoms of angiosarcoma of the breast are often vague and can mimic the symptoms of other, more common diseases. As a result, angiosarcoma of the breast can be difficult to diagnose.

Phyllodes tumors

Phyllodes tumors are a type of cancer that accounting for only 1-2% of all breast cancers. They are most common in women in their 40s and 50s, and tend to be larger than other types of breast cancer. Phyllodes tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and can usually be found in the outermost part of the breast.

While phyllodes tumors are not as common as other types of breast cancer, they can still be aggressive and dangerous. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a phyllodes tumor, it’s important to get treatment right away.

 

Noninvasive (in-situ) Breast Cancer Types

Non-invasive breast cancer is not as aggressive and is less likely to spread to other parts of the body.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive breast cancer. DCIS means that there are abnormal cells in the lining of the breast ducts, but they have not spread outside of the ducts. DCIS is considered an early form of breast cancer.

DCIS is usually found on a mammogram (breast X-ray) before it can be felt. DCIS is not life-threatening, but it is important to treat DCIS because it may become invasive breast cancer and spread beyond the breast if it is not treated. DCIS can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy, or a combination of these treatments.

If you have been diagnosed with DCIS, you may have a lot of questions. You may want to learn more about DCIS and how it is treated.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)

Breast lobules can develop cancerous cells, a disease known as lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). LCIS is not a true cancer, but it is considered a risk factor for developing breast cancer. This is because women with LCIS have an increased risk of developing cancer in the future.

LCIS is usually found during a mammogram or other breast cancer screening. If LCIS is found, your doctor may recommend additional screening tests, such as a breast MRI, to check for breast cancer. In some cases, a biopsy may also be recommended.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for LCIS. Treatment options will be based on your individual risk factors and may include surveillance, hormonotherapy, or prophylactic mastectomy.

 

Causes

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women, and it can occur in men as well. While the exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, there are a number of risk factors that can increase your chance of developing the disease.

Some of the most common risk factors for breast cancer include gender (being a woman), age (55 or older), family history, and personal history (e.g., previous breast cancer diagnosis). Additionally, lifestyle choices like smoking, drinking alcohol, and having an unhealthy diet can also increase your risk.

Causes of Breast Cancer

The following are a few of the most common risk factors for breast cancer:

  • Gender (Being a Woman).
  • Age (55 or Older).
  • Being Overweight or Obese.
  • Having Dense Breasts.
  • Starting Menstruation at a Young Age.
  • Going Through Menopause at a Late Age.
  • Having a History of Breast Cancer in the Family.
  • Having a Personal History of Certain Breast Conditions.

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk or catch the disease early. There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, but early detection is key to successful treatment.

 

Breast Cancer Symptoms

While every case of breast cancer is different, there are some common symptoms that tend to occur in most cases. If you notice any of the following changes in your breasts, it’s important to consult with a doctor as soon as possible.

  • A Change in the Size or Shape of the Breast.
  • A Lump or Mass in the Breast.
  • Discharge From the Nipple.
  • Dimpling of the Skin.
  • Redness or Inflammation of the Breast.
  • A Change in the Texture of the Breast.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that not all of these changes will necessarily be indicative of cancer. However, if you notice any of these changes, it’s important to have them checked out by a doctor to rule out the possibility of cancer.

 

Diagnosis

A breast cancer diagnosis can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. But keep in mind that you are not fighting this battle alone. There are lots of options present.

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. For women who have breast cancer symptoms, a mammogram is often the first test ordered. Mammograms are also used as a follow-up test after breast cancer has been diagnosed to see if cancer has returned or to check for new breast cancer.

Mammograms are performed by radiologists, doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases using medical imaging. A mammogram usually takes about 15 minutes.

Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound is a diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create an image of the breast tissue. It is often used to help diagnose breast cancer, as it can help to show the size, shape, and location of a suspicious mass. A breast ultrasound is usually performed by a cancer specialist, such as a radiologist or surgeon.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound to help determine the best course of treatment. This test is usually safe and non-invasive, and it does not use ionizing radiation (such as X-rays). Breast ultrasound is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as a mammogram or biopsy.

MRI

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a type of imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. An MRI of the breast is sometimes used to diagnose breast cancer.

MRI is not routinely used for screening breast cancer, but it may be recommended for women who have an abnormal mammogram or clinical exam, women with dense breast tissue, or women with implants. MRI is also sometimes used to evaluate breast lumps that cannot be seen or felt on a physical exam.

MRI of the breast is usually performed with contrast agents, which are injected into the veins before the MRI begins. The contrast agent helps to better visualize abnormalities in the breast tissue.

The MRI exam itself is painless, but the injecting of the contrast agent can cause some discomfort. The MRI may also be somewhat noisy,

PET/CT

A PET/CT scan is a imaging test that combines images from a computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET) scan. It can be used to diagnose breast cancer. The test is performed by injecting a small amount of a radioactive tracer into the body. The tracer travels through the body and collects in areas of high cell activity, such as cancerous tumors.

A PET/CT scan is often used to confirm the results of other tests, such as a mammogram or biopsy. It can also be used to determine the stage of breast cancer, which helps guide treatment decisions.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor may recommend a PET/CT scan as part of your treatment plan.

Scintimammography

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and early detection is critical to successful treatment. Many women undergo mammography as part of their routine cancer screening, but this test is not always accurate, especially in women with dense breast tissue. In recent years, scintimammography has emerged as a valuable tool for breast cancer diagnosis.

Scintimammography is a type of nuclear medicine imaging that uses a special camera to create images of the breast. This imaging technique is able to detect cancerous lesions that may be hidden on a mammogram. Scintimammography is a safe and non-invasive procedure that can be used to supplement mammography in women at high risk for breast cancer.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which tissue or cells are taken from the body and examined. A biopsy of the breast is often performed to determine if breast cancer is present.

There are several types of breast biopsies, and the type of biopsy performed will depend on the size, location, and appearance of the suspicious area. The most common type of breast biopsy is a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. This type of biopsy uses a very thin needle to remove cells from the breast.

Other types of biopsies include core needle biopsies and surgical biopsies. A core needle biopsy removes a small cylinder of tissue from the breast, while a surgical biopsy involves removing the entire tumor or a large sample of tissue.

Breast Cancer Treatments

Breast Cancer Treatment

There are a variety of treatment options available, and your team will work with you to determine the best course of action based on the specific type and stage of your cancer. You may receive one or more of these treatments, depending on your individual case.

 

Surgery

Surgery is the most common therapy for breast cancer. There are several types of surgery, and the type of surgery you have will depend on the stage of your cancer, the size of your tumor, and your overall health.

Surgery can be used to remove the cancerous tumor from your breast (lumpectomy) or to remove your entire breast (mastectomy). If you have a lumpectomy, you may also need to have radiation therapy. If you have a mastectomy, you may also need to have chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

 

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a common therapy for breast cancer. It uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be given externally, by aiming the beams at the tumor from outside the body, or internally, by placing radioactive material in the tumor.

There are two types of external radiation therapy:
Beam radiation therapy: A machine called a linear accelerator produces a beam of high-energy X-rays that is aimed at the tumor.
Electron beam radiation therapy: A machine produces a beam of high-energy electrons that is aimed at the tumor.

Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive material, called a seed, that is placed directly in the tumor. The seed gives off radiation for a short time and then becomes inactive.

 

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. It uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given through a vein in your arm (intravenously), or it can be taken as a pill.

Chemotherapy is often provided in cycles, with each round lasting a few weeks. The length of treatment depends on the type of chemotherapy you’re receiving and how well your body responds to it.

Side effects of chemotherapy can include fatigue, hair loss, nausea, and vomiting. However, these side effects are usually temporary and will go away once treatment is finished.

If you’re scheduled to receive chemotherapy, your doctor will give you more specific instructions on what to expect and how to prepare for treatment.

 

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapies are drugs that block or lower the amount of hormones in the body. They are used to treat hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.

There are two types of hormonal therapies:

  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)
  • Aromatase inhibitors (AIs)

SERMs work by blocking the effects of estrogen on breast cancer cells. AIs lower the amount of estrogen in the body by preventing the production of estrogen.

Hormonal therapy is most often used as adjuvant therapy, which means it is given after surgery to lower the risk of the cancer coming back. It may also be used as neoadjuvant therapy, which means it is given before surgery to shrink the tumor.

 

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer therapy that targets specific chemicals or genes involved in cancer cell growth and spread. This type of therapy is usually used in conjunction with other cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Targeted therapy is a relatively new type of cancer treatment, and it is still being studied. However, it has shown promise in the treatment of breast cancer and is currently approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain types of cancer.

If you are considering targeted therapy for your breast cancer treatment, be sure to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of this type of treatment.

 

Immunotherapy

In recent years, there has been a major breakthrough in the treatment of breast cancer. A new type of immunotherapy, known as checkpoint inhibitors, has shown promise in fighting the disease. This therapy works by targeting the proteins that cancer cells use to evade the immune system.

Checkpoint inhibitors have proven to be effective in treating breast cancer, and they are now being used to treat other types of cancer as well. This new immunotherapy is still in the early stages of development, but it shows great promise for the future of cancer treatment.

You should talk to your doctor about all of your treatment options and what is right for you.

Breast Cancer Prevention

Breast Cancer Prevention Tips

While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding alcohol.

  1.  Breast cancer prevention begins with early detection. It can be prevented by getting a regular check-up and by knowing the risk factors for the disease. Regular breast self-examination (BSE) can help identify any changes in your breast tissue. If you notice any changes, please talk to your doctor or health care provider.
  2.  The most important thing you can do to prevent breast cancer is to avoid smoking and alcohol. Smoking and Alcohol is the leading cause of cancer, and it also increases your risk of developing breast cancer.
  3.  It can also be prevented through healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding high-fat, high-calorie foods can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. Additionally, getting enough exercise can help reduce your risk of developing cancer.
  4.  Breast cancer can also be prevented through the use of prevention tools, such as mammography and screenings. Mammography is a imaging test that uses X-rays to look at your breast. Screenings help identify women who may be at risk for developing breast cancer. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should get screened for the disease at least once a year.

 

Living with Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a life-changing diagnosis, but it doesn’t have to define you. With the right treatment and support, you can live a long and healthy life.

There are many different types of breast cancer, so the first step is to meet with your doctor to discuss your diagnosis and treatment options. You may need to have surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, or you may be able to manage your cancer with hormone therapy or other medication.

Living with breast cancer can be difficult, but you’re not alone. There are many support groups and resources available to help you through this time. You can also talk to your doctor about ways to manage your anxiety and stress.

The most important thing is to stay positive and focus on the things that are important to you. With the right support, you can live happily and healthy.

 

Survival Rates

According to the American Cancer Society, the most recent data shows that the survival rates for breast cancer patients have continued to improve, with patients diagnosed in 2022 projected to have a 92.3% chance of surviving at least 5 years. This is a significant increase from the 83.3% survival rate for patients diagnosed in 2002. This impressive increase in survival rates is due to advances in cancer detection and treatment.

However, keep in mind that they are only averages. The survival rate for each woman diagnosed with breast cancer is different and depends on a number of factors, including the stage of the cancer, the woman’s age, her overall health, and the treatment she received.

 

Bottom Line

Breast cancer is a serious issue, and the more information we can spread about it, the better. Regular self-exams, knowing your family history, and getting screenings are all important prevention measures. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.

Lastly, if you found this guide helpful, please share it with others who might benefit from it. Breast cancer is a serious issue, and the more information we can spread about it, the better. Thanks for reading!

Originally posted 2022-12-15 14:31:54.

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