Olivia Barredo
October 19, 2022

Many people have died as a result of breast cancer. In fact, it is the most prevalent cancer in the world and the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. More than 4 million women in the US alone are affected by breast cancer.

While this does not make a diagnosis any easier, it does show that a lot of research and effort is being put into preventing it, and it is working.

Survival rates continue to rise as treatments improve and become more personalized for each patient.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease in which the breast cells develop uncontrollably. The breast is made up of three major parts: ducts, lobules, and connective tissue. Breast cancers generally begin in the ducts or lobules. Breast cancer has the potential to spread to other portions of the body via the blood and lymph vessels.

Breast cancer screenings should be done on a regular basis. However, mammography does not identify every case of breast cancer. To be aware of any changes in your breasts, you must first understand how they normally feel and look. The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass, but most breast lumps are not cancerous.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

• Breast swelling that affects all or a portion of the breast

• Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples

• Non-breast milk nipple discharge

• General breast discomfort in/on any area of the breast

• Breast enlargement or change in form

• Breast lumps or nodules felt on or within the breast

Signs That You Might Have Breast Cancer

If you encounter any of these signs, it’s best to consult immediately with a trusted doctor. Be sure to have testing done during or after your consultation. Always remember that consulting a doctor should be your first priority if you find that you have signs of having breast cancer.

• A breast or underarm lump that won't go away. This is frequently the early sign of breast cancer. Typically, a lump on a mammography may be detected by your doctor long before you can feel or see it. Although lumps do not normally hurt, they might cause pain and discomfort. Some may irritate you.

• A breast that is flat or indented. This might occur as a result of a tumor you are unable to see and feel.

• Breast adjustments, such as a change in your breast's size, shape, texture, or warmth

• An area beneath your skin that likes marble and feels different from the rest of each breast.

• Armpit or collarbone swelling. This might indicate that the breast cancer has migrated to nearby lymph nodes. Swelling may begin before you see a lump, so inform your physician if you see it.

• Nipple discharge that is unusual. It might be red, clear, or of a different color.

• Retraction of the nipple (turning inward)

Remember that these symptoms might be caused by diseases other than cancer. If you see any signs or symptoms that bother you, make an appointment with your doctor immediately.

What do Lumps in Your Breast Area Mean?

Most breast lumps are caused by other medical conditions, such as cysts and fibrocystic breast disease. Cysts are little fluid-filled sacs that can form in the breast, causing it to become painful, lumpy, and uncomfortable. Fibrocystic disease creates noncancerous changes in the breast that can cause lumpiness and tenderness.

Breast Cancer Prevention: Things That You Can Do

Several factors can increase the chance of developing breast cancer throughout the period of your life. Some factors, such as family history or age, are unchangeable, but you may reduce your risk of breast cancer by following the guidelines provided below.

• Take part in some physical activities.

• Consult your doctor about the implications and determine whether you should take oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or hormone replacement therapy if you currently do or have been recommended to do so.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Choose not to consume alcohol or drink it in moderation.

• If you can, breastfeed your children.

• Talk to your doctor about additional ways to reduce your risk if you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

A breast cancer diagnosis may be frustrating, scary, and even depressing. Staying healthy throughout your life will reduce your risk of having cancer and increase your chances of survival if it does occur.

It is necessary that you utilize the several options accessible to you if you or a loved one is dealing with this condition. Consult your doctor about your treatment choices. You should even seek a second opinion before making a decision.

Moreover, participating in a local support group helps ease feelings of loneliness and provides you with the opportunity to speak with others who are going through similar experiences.