This month, we focus on the causes, risks, symptoms of breast cancer, and how to prevent it!
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control in one or both breasts. They can invade nearby tissues and form a mass called a malignant tumor. The cancer cells can spread (metastasize) to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Breast cancer that begins in the ducts of the breast is called ductal carcinoma. It is the most common type of breast cancer. When breast cancer begins in the lobes of the breast, it is called lobular carcinoma. Sometimes breast cancer is a mix of both types.
If abnormal cells are found only in the lining of a duct or lobe of the breast, they are said to be noninvasive or “in situ” (say “in-SY-too”). These abnormal cells are called ductal carcinoma in situ or lobular carcinoma in situ.
What Causes Breast Cancer?
Doctors don’t know exactly what causes breast cancer. But some things are known to increase the chance that you will get it. These are called risk factors. Risk factors that you cannot change include getting older and having changes to specific genes. However, you may change risk factors, including using certain types of hormone therapy after menopause, being overweight, and not getting enough physical activity.
But many women who have risk factors don’t get breast cancer. And many women who get breast cancer don’t have any known risk factors other than being female and getting older.
Can Breast Cancer be Prevented?
At this time, there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer. Some risk factors, such as your age and being female, cannot be controlled. But you can do things to stay healthy, such as having a healthy diet and being active. Knowing your risk of getting breast cancer also can help you choose what steps to take.
Talk to your doctor about your risk. Find out when to start having mammograms and how often you need one. If your doctor confirms that you have a high risk, ask about ways to reduce your risk, such as getting extra screening, taking medicine, or having surgery.
If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, ask your doctor about genetic testing. The test can check for gene changes that increase your risk of getting breast cancer.
What Are the Symptoms?
- A change in the way the breast feels. The most common symptom is a painless lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
- A change in the way the breast looks. The skin on the breast may dimple or look like an orange peel. There may be a change in the size or shape of the breast.
- A change in the nipple. It may turn in. The skin around it may look scaly.
- A fluid that comes out of the nipple.
See a doctor right away if you notice these changes!
If you have noticed changes in your breasts, call MHEDS to schedule an appointment with a provider today at (814) 453-6229 or (814) 898-0400. Or visit www.mheds.org for more information.
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
