Early Detection of Breast Cancer: Causes and How to Treat It

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early detection is an important step to increase the chances of recovery and reduce the death rate from this cancer. This article will discuss the importance of early detection, the causes of breast cancer, and steps to overcome it.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of breast cancer allows diagnosis at an early stage, when treatment has a higher survival rate. There are two main approaches to early detection:

1. Routine Screening: Includes mammography, which can detect cancer before symptoms appear.
2. Self Breast Examination: Women are advised to examine their own breasts regularly every month 7-10 days after menstruation, to identify suspicious changes.

Early symptoms to watch out for include:

• Lumps in the breast or armpit.
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
• Redness or orange peel-like discoloration of the breast area.
• Fluid that comes out of the nipple for no apparent reason.

Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer occurs due to the growth of abnormal cells in breast tissue. The exact cause is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:

1. Genetic Factors: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of breast cancer.
2. Family History: The risk is higher if a family member has had breast cancer.
3. Hormones: Long-term exposure to the hormone estrogen, such as early menstruation or late menopause, may increase the risk.
4. Lifestyle: Obesity, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and a high-fat diet can contribute to the risk of breast cancer.
5. Age: Risk increases with age, especially after age 50.

How to Treat Breast Cancer

After a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment steps will depend on the stage of the cancer, its type, and the patient's health condition. Here are some of the main methods to deal with it:

1. Operation:
   • Lumpectomy: Removing the tumor without removing the entire breast.
   • Mastectomy: Removing the entire breast to prevent the spread of cancer.
2. Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill any cancer cells remaining after surgery.
3. Chemotherapy: Drugs given orally or through an IV to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.
4. Hormone Therapy: Used for hormone-sensitive cancers, such as estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
5. Targeted Therapy: Using drugs that specifically target genetic changes or proteins in cancer cells.

Breast Cancer Prevention

While not all cases can be prevented, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:

• Maintain ideal body weight.
• Be physically active.
• Eat healthy foods, including fruits and vegetables.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Breastfeed, if possible.
• Perform regular breast examinations.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a serious disease that requires immediate attention and action. Early detection through regular check-ups and self-awareness is essential to increase the chances of recovery. By understanding the risk factors and taking preventive measures, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the threat of breast cancer.
 

References:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection.html
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-treatment-pdq