Breast Cancers

Breast Cancers

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Outcomes are excellent when the disease is detected early and treated appropriately using modern, evidence-based therapies. Although far more common in women, breast cancer can also occur in men.

Overview

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumor.

It usually begins in the milk ducts (ductal cancer) or lobules (lobular cancer).

Breast cancer can occur at any age but is more common after 40–50 years.

There are multiple subtypes including hormone receptor-positive, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancer.

Treatment is personalized based on tumor biology, stage, and patient factors.

Risk Factors

Non Modifiable

Increasing age

Female sex

Family history of breast or ovarian cancer

BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations

Early menarche and late menopause

Modifiable

Obesity after menopause

Physical inactivity

Alcohol consumption

Smoking

Hormone replacement therapy

Prevention Tips

Maintain healthy weight

Exercise regularly

Limit alcohol

Avoid tobacco

Regular screening for high-risk individuals

Symptoms

Early

Often asymptomatic in early stages

Common

Breast lump

Change in breast shape or size

Nipple discharge or inversion

Skin dimpling or redness

Advanced

Bone pain

Breathlessness

Weight loss

Enlarged lymph nodes

Diagnosis

Approach

Clinical Evaluation

Breast examination

Axillary lymph node examination

Tests

Blood tests for baseline evaluation

Imaging

Mammography

Breast ultrasound

Breast MRI (selected cases)

Biopsy

Core needle biopsy

Vacuum-assisted biopsy

Molecular Tests

ER/PR receptor testing

HER2 testing

Genomic assays (selected cases)

Staging

CT scan

Bone scan

PET-CT when indicated

Treatment

Principle

Surgery

Breast-conserving surgery

Mastectomy

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

Radiation Therapy

Adjuvant radiotherapy

Palliative radiotherapy

Systemic Therapy

Chemotherapy

Hormonal therapy

Targeted therapy

Immunotherapy (selected cases)

Supportive Care

Pain management

Physiotherapy

Psychological counseling

Nutritional support

Do's and Don'ts

Dos

Attend regular screening

Complete full treatment

Maintain healthy lifestyle

Seek emotional support

Donts

Do not ignore symptoms

Do not stop medicines without advice

Avoid smoking and alcohol abuse