Breast Cancer Awareness
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, promote early detection, and provide education about this disease. This month, we’ll go over how breast cancer is diagnosed, common signs and symptoms, treatment options, and the myths associated with it.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form tumors. These abnormal cells typically begin in the milk ducts, which carry milk to the nipple, or in the milk-producing lobules within the breast. While less common, these cells can also develop in other breast tissues.
Diagnosis
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Breast cancer can be diagnosed through a combination of screening tests and diagnostic procedures, including:
- Mammograms: X-ray images of the breast to detect abnormalities before symptoms appear.
- Ultrasounds: Used to examine suspicious areas and distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images for high-risk patients or unclear findings.
- Biopsy: Removal of tissue for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Healthcare providers may also use genetic testing for patients with a strong family history, which can help identify inherited mutations that increase cancer risk.
Signs and Symptoms
Breast cancer doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, but some common warning signs include:
- Lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance
- Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin
- Nipple changes, such as inversion, discharge, or unusual texture
- Persistent breast pain or tenderness
- Swelling or lumps in the collarbone or underarm lymph nodes
It’s important to note that some cancers may be detected before any symptoms appear, which is why regular screenings are essential. If you notice any changes in your breasts, be sure to reach out to your doctor to get a check up. You can never be careful when it comes to your health.
Treatment Options
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type, stage, and individual patient factors. Common approaches include:
- Surgery: Removing the tumor (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy).
- Radiation Therapy: Using targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells and prevent recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment that kills rapidly dividing cells throughout the body.
- Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel certain types of breast cancers.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs designed to target specific molecules in cancer cells, reducing damage to healthy tissue.
Many patients receive a combination of these treatments to improve outcomes. Advances in research and personalized care have significantly improved survival rates, especially when breast cancer is detected early.
Myths
1) Breast cancer is only a cancer that happens in women.
FACT: Breast cancer can also happen in men, while it is rare (1%) it can still happen to them.
2) Underwire bras or deodorant causes breast cancer.
FACT: No scientific evidence supports this. These are persistent myths, but they’re unfounded.
3) Breast cancer will always cause a lump.
FACT: Some cases are detected on mammograms before a lump appears. A lot of lumps in the breast are benign and can be from several things such as your menstrual cycle, birth control, & more.
4) Only older women get breast cancer.
FACT: Risk increases with age, but younger women can develop it too, especially aggressive types.
5) You will only get breast cancer if someone in your family has it.
FACT: Only 5–10% of cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations, which means 90-95% of breast cancer cases actually have no family history of it.
Struggling with a breast cancer diagnosis?
If you or someone you love is facing breast cancer Call us today at 815-288-4673 to set up an appointment with our social worker.
Whether you are in active treatment or a survivor, we are here for you! RSVP to our ladies’ night October 23rd at 6pm and get your free hand massage, wig tips, & nails painted. This is totally free to cancer patients, survivors, & there loved ones. There are limited spots so be sure to RSVP today! We can’t wait to see you!!
