Breast Cancer Awareness; Be Courageous to Act Now!

Breast cancer is a worldwide dilemma in the public health domain. It is the second most
common cancer occurring in newly diagnosed cancer. This condition develops when breast cells grow
unconditionally, forming tumours that can invade nearby tissue or spread to other body parts. Several types of breast cancer exist, each varying in aggressiveness, prognosis, and
treatment options. Early detection through routine screening, such as mammograms, and advances in treatment have improved outcomes for many individuals. However, breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, emphasising the need for continued research, awareness, and prevention strategies.⁽¹⁾ Current evidence suggests that in women aged <45 years, breast cancer is unquestionably the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer that affects women and can also affect men. ⁽²⁾

When the cells of breast tissue change and are out of control, they form tumours in the breast. Cancer cells are called ‘in situ’ if they don’t spread. However, if they spread to surrounding breast tissue and lymph nodes through the lymphatic system and blood, termed ‘invasive.’

October is celebrated as Breast Awareness Month. “The Pink October” is celebrated worldwide to understand the importance of cancer and its early prevention through routine screening for early detection.

• Healthcare providers have categorized breast cancer into various types for the effectiveness of the treatment plan. The different types of cancer are listed as:⁽³⁾
• Invasive ductal carcinoma: This cancer has an effect on your milk duct and spreads to other breast tissue. It’s the most common type of cancer.
• Ductal carcinoma in situ: It’s a non-invasive cancer. The abnormal cells are found in the breast duct but have not spread outside the duct.
• Lobular carcinoma in situ: it’s not considered to be a true cancer but can lead to the risk of invasive cancer. The abnormal cells are seen in the lobules of the breast.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma: cancer that begins in lobules and gets spread in breast tissue.

The causes of breast cancer are multifunctional; several factors contribute to the development of the cancer. An overview of causes and risk factors for breast cancer;

• Family history: close relatives [mother, sister, daughter] who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, then you may have the risk too. This is because the mutated gene, which can cause breast cancer, can be inherited.
• Inherited gene mutation: mutation of specific gene can increase the risk for breast cancer. Especially BRCA1 and BRCA2, mutations can increase the risk for breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

• Obesity and Diet: A high-fat diet and obesity, especially after menopause, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Fat tissues produce estrogen, which can trigger certain types of breast cancer.
• Lack of physical activity: no physical activity can lead to an uncontrolled weight and increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Alcohol consumption: overconsumption of alcohol affects health and can increase the risk of breast cancer.

• Early menstruation and late menopause: Disruption in this process of onset and offset menstruation can lead to disturbed levels of estrogen therefore increasing the risk of breast cancer.
• Estrogen level: long- term exposure to estrogen could lead to breast cancer risk as this hormone promotes breast cell growth.

Recognizing signs and symptoms of breast cancer is vital for early detection.If any of the listed symptoms are noticed by you, please consult a healthcare professional for a proper treatment plan:

• Lump formation in breast or underarm.
• Skin dimpling or puckering.
• Any Shape or size change in any of the breasts.
• Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or the breast skin
• Any discharge or retraction in the nipple
• Swelling in the armpit or coral bone
• Pain or discomfort in the breast or the nipple

Breast cancer treatment has advanced significantly, offering many options tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer. Therefore, understanding these treatments can help patients and their loved ones make informed decisions.

• Mastectomy ⁽⁴⁾
• Lumpectomy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy involving tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors
• HER2- targeted drug therapy
• Immunotherapy

Breast cancer awareness is crucial for people to know the early detection, screening and treatment available for their betterment. ⁽⁵⁾

These awareness groups have the following purposes:

• Education: Overall these awareness groups educate people about breast cancer, its advancement, and treatment planning by means of seminars, workshops, and community practices.
• Support and Connection: Such awareness groups make a sense of belonging. People feel safe and can express themself, their concern, fear, and experience. They help to form a network with the right people for the journey.
• Fundraising: Many groups come along to hold informational sessions, and seminars and educate others by public policy and raise funds for services, support, research and treatment for vulnerable people.
• Resources and referral: They provide valuable resources like contact of medical professionals, about clinical trials, support services groups, and new treatments.

Breast cancer awareness is not about understanding the problem. It’s a call to take action for the betterment of your loved one. Early detection, regular health check-ups and screening can help save lives and protect from future regrets.

Open up calendar, find a date and fix up your mammogram today for yourself or your loved once.

Be part of groups and invest some time of yours in community groups. Change starts by one, be that one for your loved once.

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1. Anastasiadi Z, Lianos GD, Ignatiadou E, Harissis HV, Mitsis M. Breast cancer in young women: an overview. Updates Surg. 2017;69(3):313-7. doi: 10.1007/s13304-017-0424-1.
2. American Cancer Society. What is breast cancer? Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/what-is-breast-cancer.html
3. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Breast cancer types: what your type means. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/in-depth/breast-cancer/ART-20045654?p=1
4. National Library of Medicine. Mastectomy: MedlinePlus health topic. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/mastectomy.html
5. National Breast Cancer Foundation. Breast cancer support group. National Breast Cancer Foundation. Available from: https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/nbcf-programs/breast-cancer-support-group/

Author:  Dr Sakshi Singh

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