What are the symptoms and signs of Breast Cancer?

 What are the symptoms and signs of Breast Cancer? We all fear Cancer! It is heartbreaking to see your loved ones fighting against this deadly disease. One such type of Cancer is Breast cancer which is the most talked-about topic. But still, there are many misconceptions about it.

Here in this blog, we will discuss breast cancer, its symptoms, and how to treat it right on time. Further, we will discuss some myths associated with breast cancer.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease caused when cells start growing out of control in the breast area. You can notice it as a lump. In most cases, women are affected by breast cancer, but it occurs in men too.

A breast has three layers; lobules are the milk glands, ducts that carry milk to the nipple, and connecting tissues to hold everything. Generally, breast cancer starts within the duct or lobules. Soon it starts spreading outside the breast through blood vessels, and you start noticing a lump in that area.

What are the different types of breast cancer?

The most common breast cancers are:

Invasive ductal Carcinoma: In this type of Cancer, the cell grows outside the breast tissue. It can spread to other parts of the body.

Invasive lobular carcinoma: In this type of cancer, the cells are spread from lobules to breast tissues nearby. This can also apply to other parts of the body.

There are other less common breast cancers like Paget’s, Medullary, Mucinous, inflammatory breast cancer.

What is the cause of breast cancer in females?

1. If you had breast cancer or early non-invasive cancer cell changes previously, you have a higher risk of developing it again.
2. Family history can also be one of the significant contributors in increasing the risk of developing breast cancer.
3. The presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of breast and ovaries cancer. In addition presence of genes like TP53 and CHEK2 genes increase breast cancer risk.
4. If you have dense breast tissue, you might develop breast cancer as more cells become cancerous.
5. Hormones and hormone medicine can also contribute to developing breast cancer. In addition, hormone replacement therapy is also associated with the risk of developing breast cancer.
6. Contraceptive pills increase your chances of developing breast cancer slightly. However, this risk will automatically decrease once you stop taking the drugs.
7. Some lifestyle factors might also increase your risk of developing breast cancer, like obesity, excessive alcohol and bad eating habits.
8. There are specific medical procedures like x-ray city scan, which may slightly increase your risk of developing breast cancer due to the radiation they release.

Read Also: Why do women have periods? What is the evolutionary benefit or purpose of having periods?

How can we do self-examination for breast cancer?

To do the self-examination, stand in front of the mirror with your shoulder straight. Look at the shape, size and color of the breast. If you see any puckering, swelling, or bulging, contact your doctor soon.

In the subsequent examination, raise your arms straight and check if there is any release of thick yellow or watery substance from the nipple.

In this method, you can either sit or stand; try doing it under the shower. Feel your breast and make movements. If you feel any lump in your breast area, there is something suspicious.

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms mentioned above, quickly make an appointment with your doctor.

Myth and Facts about breast cancer

There are different myths associated with breast cancer. So here we have listed a few most common methods to break the Taboo related to breast cancer.

1. Myth: No family history lower risk

Women without any family history of breast cancer are at lower risk. You will be surprised to know that most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of this disease. The only risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman and growing older.

2. Myth: Breast cancer occurs in women’s bodies; men are entirely safe.

Another most common myth about breast cancer is that it only occurs in a woman’s body. But the fact is breast cancer can occur in men occasionally. Many people have no idea or realize that men have breast tissues that can develop into breast cancer.

3. Myth: Injury causes breast cancer

Next up is that any injury to the breast can cause breast cancer. Damage to the breast never causes Cancer. It only draws attention to the lamp which has already been created, but you never noticed.

4. Myth: Good diet and regular exercise is equal to no breast cancer

If you have a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and limit your alcohol consumption, you cannot have breast cancer. Remember that these actions can help you lower the risk of breast cancer, but they do not eliminate it.

5. Myth: Wearing a bra causes Cancer

Another funny myth about breast cancer is that wearing a bra can result in breast cancer. But we have no evidence that proves bra causes breast cancer.

5. Myth: Too much sugar high risk of breast cancer

Too much sugar contains causes breast cancer is yet another associated with breast cancer. But the fact is no evidence states that sugar in diet causes breast cancer.

Hope you get an idea about breast cancer after reading the blog. If you have breast cancer or have recently diagnosed it, stay strong! Everything will get better soon.

Frequently asked questions

How do unmarried girls get breast cancer?

Marital status has nothing to do with breast cancer; an unmarried woman is at the same risk as a married woman.

Is it normal for a teenage girl to lump in her breast?

Breast lumps are pretty common in old age, but teenagers might develop them as well. However, these lumps can be caused due to different reasons, not necessarily breast cancer.

Can a 14-year-old have breast cancer?

Breast cancer usually develops once you start growing older. The chances of a 14-year-old girl having breast cancer are rare.