What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. If left unchecked, the tumours can spread throughout the body and become fatal.
Breast cancer cells begin inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast.
Breast cancer is a type of uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast, occurring outside of their natural boundaries. Breast cancer originates in the breast tissue, where it can develop from the milk lobules or ducts. The cancer can spread to surrounding breast tissues or other parts of the body, including the liver, lungs, and bones.
What are the causes of breast cancer?
Breast cancer can occur due to various lifestyle factors such as unhealthy eating habits, smoking, alcohol consumption, and hereditary (genetic) causes.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Symptoms of breast cancer include:
- Lumps or thickened areas in the breast
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Skin dimpling or nipple inversion
- Unexplained discharge from the nipple
- Pain in the breast or armpit
- Other irregularities that persist for a long time
If you notice any unusual symptoms, you should consult a healthcare provider immediately.
What are the preventive measures against breast cancer?
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Undergoing regular breast checkups
These measures help in reducing the risk of breast cancer and promoting overall breast health.
How to perform a regular breast examination?
- Breast Exam: A clinical breast exam done by a health professional
- Mammography: An X-ray image of the breast to detect any abnormalities
- Clinical Breast Exam: A physical examination done by a doctor
- Breast Self-Exam: A self-check done at home to look for any changes in the breast
It is essential to perform these regular examinations to detect any early signs of breast cancer.
What to do if a problem is detected during a regular examination?
If any problems are detected during a regular breast examination, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment is crucial in managing breast cancer effectively. The doctor will prescribe further tests and treatments based on the examination. It is essential to follow the doctor’s recommendations and go for regular checkups.