Why Breast Cancer affects most Women in the USA? Causes and Preventions.
What is a Cancer?
Cancer is a disease in which some cells in the body grow out of control and spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer can start almost anywhere in the billions of cells that make up the human body. Normally, human cells grow and multiply (through a process called cell division) to create new cells as the body needs them. As cells get old or damaged, they die, and new cells take their place. In cancer, something goes wrong in the cell division process. The new cells that are created are not normal. They may grow too fast, or they may not die when they should. These abnormal cells can form a mass of tissue called a tumor.
Tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors, also called cancer, can spread to other parts of the body through a process called metastasis.
The Different Types of Cancer
There are about 100 different forms of cancer.
Cancers are frequently called for the organs or tissues in which they develop. Lung cancer, for example, begins in the lungs, while brain cancer begins in the brain. Cancers can also be classified based on the type of cell that caused them, such as epithelial or squamous cells.
Doctors classify cancer into several categories based on where it starts. There are four primary forms of cancer:
1. Carcinomas
The skin or the tissue that covers the surface of internal organs and glands is where a carcinoma develops. Carcinomas are often solid tumors. Cancers of this class are the most frequent. Prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer are all examples of carcinomas.
2. Sarcomas
Sarcomas start in the body’s supporting and connecting tissues. Fat, muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, blood arteries, lymph vessels, cartilage, and bone can all form sarcomas.
3. Leukemias
Leukemia is a kind of blood cancer. When healthy blood cells begin to alter and expand uncontrolled, leukemia develops. Acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and chronic myeloid leukemia are the four primary kinds of leukemia.
4. Lymphomas
Lymphoma is a malignancy of the lymphatic system that starts in the lymph nodes. The lymphatic system is a system of tubes and glands that assists in the fight against infection. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the two most common forms of lymphomas.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a sickness in which the cells of the breast proliferate uncontrollably. There are several types of breast cancer. The kind of breast cancer is determined by which cells in the breast develop into cancer.
Breast cancer can develop in a variety of locations within the breast. A breast is composed of three major components: lobules, ducts, and connective tissue. The glands that generate milk are known as lobules.
Ducts are tubes that transport milk to the nipple. The connective tissue (fibrous and fatty tissue) surrounds and binds everything together. The majority of breast cancers start in the ducts or lobules.
Breast cancer can spread outside of the breast via blood and lymph arteries. Breast cancer is considered to have metastasized when it spreads to other portions of the body.
Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among American women.
Breast Cancer: A Growing Concern for Women in the USA
Breast cancer continues to be a significant health issue in the United States. Despite advancements in treatment and early detection, it remains a prevalent disease affecting millions of people.
Here’s a breakdown of the latest statistics:
- Incidence: In 2023, an estimated 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women.
- 56,500 women are projected to receive a diagnosis of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
- Mortality: Approximately 42,250 women in the U.S. are expected to die from breast cancer in 2023.
- Survival Rates: The 5-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is 99% when detected at a localized stage.
- Women under 50: Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in this age group, after skin cancer.
- Women over 50: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in this age group.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer:
The American Cancer Society states that any of the following unexpected changes in the breast can be a sign of breast cancer:
- Swelling of the whole or a portion of the breast,
- Skin irritation, or dimpling breast discomfort
- Nipple discomfort or inward nipple redness, scaliness, or thickness of the nipple or breast skin
- A nipple discharge other than breast milk
- An underarm lump
- Any alteration in the breast’s size or contour.
- Any part of the breast might be painful.
These changes may also be symptoms of less serious, non-cancerous illnesses, such as an infection or a cyst. Again, it’s critical to have any breast changes evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.
Breast self-examination
It should be part of your monthly health care regimen, and you should see your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts.
If you are above the age of 40 or have a high risk of breast cancer, you should also get yearly mammography and physical exam performed by a doctor. The earlier breast cancer is discovered and diagnosed, the greater your chances of survival.
The actual diagnosing procedure might take weeks and involve a variety of tests. Waiting for results might feel interminable.
The unpredictability stinks. However, if you comprehend your own unique “big picture,” you will be able to make better selections. You and your physicians can create a treatment plan that is unique to you.
What are the types of Breast Cancer?
1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
One in every five new cases of breast cancer will be ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Almost of women with early-stage breast cancer may be cured.
DCIS can also be referred to as intraductal carcinoma or stage 0 breast cancer. DCIS is a kind of breast cancer that is non-invasive or pre-invasive. This suggests that the cells lining the ducts have transformed into cancer cells, but they have not migrated through the duct walls into surrounding breast tissue.
Because DCIS has not expanded into the surrounding breast tissue, it cannot spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.
DCIS, on the other hand, can occasionally progress to aggressive malignancy. At that point, cancer had progressed from the duct into adjacent tissue and might have spread to other sections of the body.
A woman with DCIS can usually choose between breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and straightforward mastectomy. A woman with DCIS can usually choose between breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and a straightforward mastectomy.
2. Invasive Breast Cancer (IDC/ILC)
Invasive breast cancer refers to malignancies that have migrated into surrounding breast tissue.
The majority of breast cancers are invasive, although there are many forms of invasive breast cancer. Invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma are the two most prevalent types.
IDC Invasive ductal Carcinoma:
This is the most prevalent kind of breast cancer. Invasive (or infiltrating) ductal carcinomas account for approximately 8 out of 10 invasive breast cancers (IDC).
IDC begins in the cells that border the breast milk duct. The malignancy then bursts through the duct wall and spreads to the adjacent breast tissues. It may be able to spread (metastasize) to other regions of the body through the lymph system and circulation at this stage.
ILC Invasive Lobular Carcinoma:
Invasive lobular carcinoma accounts for approximately one-tenth of all invasive breast malignancies (ILC).
ILC begins in the glands that produce milk (lobules). It, like IDC, can spread (metastasize) to other regions of the body. On physical examination and imaging, such as mammograms, invasive lobular carcinoma may be more difficult to detect than invasive ductal carcinoma.
In addition, compared to other types of invasive carcinoma, about 1 in 5 women with ILC may have cancer in both breasts.
Treatment for invasive breast cancer is determined by the stage of the tumor and other variables. The majority of women will require surgery to remove the tumor. Depending on the kind of breast cancer and how advanced it is, you may require further therapy before or after surgery or both.
3. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for around 10-15% of all breast cancers.
The term triple-negative breast cancer refers to cancer cells that lack estrogen and progesterone receptors as well as a high level of the protein HER2. (All three tests result in “negative” results for the cells.) These malignancies are more frequent in women under the age of 40, African Americans, and those with a BRCA1 mutation.
Triple-negative breast cancer is distinct from other forms of invasive breast cancer in that it grows and spreads more quickly, has fewer treatment choices, and has a poor prognosis.
There are fewer therapy choices for triple-negative breast cancer than for other kinds of invasive breast cancer. Surgery is a possibility if cancer has not progressed to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy may be used initially to reduce a big tumor before surgery. It may also be administered after surgery to lessen the likelihood of the cancer returning. Depending on the characteristics of the tumor, radiation may potentially be a therapeutic possibility.
4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is uncommon, accounting for just 1% to 5% of all breast cancers.
Although it is frequently classified as invasive ductal carcinoma, it varies from other forms of breast cancer in terms of symptoms, prognosis, and therapy.
IBC has inflammatory signs such as swelling and redness, although infection or damage do not cause IBC or the symptoms. IBC symptoms are produced by cancer cells obstructing lymph veins in the skin, giving the breast an “inflamed” appearance.
Top 10 Proven Tips to Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, but the good news is there are steps you can take to lower your risk. Here are ten evidence-based tips to empower yourself in the fight against breast cancer:
1. Embrace a Physically Active Lifestyle:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise weekly (or a mix of both). Regular physical activity can significantly decrease breast cancer risk.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Excess body weight, especially after menopause, increases breast cancer risk. Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight throughout your life. (Source: National Cancer Institute [invalid URL removed])
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption:
Excessive alcohol intake raises your breast cancer risk. Consider abstaining or limiting yourself to one drink per day (12 oz. beer, 5 oz. wine, or 1.5 oz. distilled spirits). (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [invalid URL removed])
4. Prioritize a Nutritious Diet:
Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Aim for a diet rich in calcium-rich dairy products and limit red and processed meats. While a specific “breast cancer prevention diet” doesn’t exist, focusing on overall health through balanced nutrition can be beneficial.
5. Minimize Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can increase breast cancer risk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to determine if alternative options are suitable.
6. Breastfeed Your Babies:
Breastfeeding reduces your exposure to hormones like estrogen, potentially lowering your risk of breast cancer. Consider breastfeeding for as long as comfortable for you and your child.
7. Limit Oral Contraceptives:
While the link between birth control pills and breast cancer risk is weak, discuss it with your doctor if you’re concerned. Alternative birth control methods are available.
8. Know Your Family History:
Talk to your family about their medical history. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, genetic testing may be an option. Early detection and risk management can be crucial. (Source: National Cancer Institute [invalid URL removed])
9. Schedule Regular Screenings:
Early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate screening schedule for you, which may include mammograms and clinical breast exams. (Source: American Cancer Society [invalid URL removed])
10. Practice Self-Breast Exams:
Familiarize yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts. Perform regular self-exams and report any changes to your doctor promptly. Early detection can significantly improve your prognosis.
These are just some ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer. Remember, every woman is different, and the best approach will vary based on your individual risk factors. Talk to your doctor about your personal risk and develop a plan that works best for you.
Empower Yourself, Prevent Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a serious health concern, but with the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk. Remember, early detection and prevention are key. By embracing a healthy lifestyle, staying informed, and seeking regular medical care, you’re taking charge of your health and empowering yourself in the fight against breast cancer
So, take action today!
