Introduction
Breast cancer awareness is the most common cancer among women. Every year millions of women around the world are affected by this cancer disease. And not detecting it on time is an even bigger problem. It can be prevented by timely identification and proper treatment, but awareness is very important for this. Which we all should take care of properly.
Due to not detecting this cancer on time, its mortality rate is increasing year after year. Therefore, to spread awareness about breast cancer, we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month every year in October. Today, through this article, we will provide complete information about breast cancer. Let’s know what breast cancer is and what the symptoms and causes of breast cancer are. we will talk about all the measures to test, treat and prevent it, etc.
1. What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common disease in women. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs due to abnormal growth in breast cells. These cells can grow out of control and form a lump (tumor). You can also see this lump or tumor in an X-ray. Which can further spread to other parts of the body.
Major types:
Ductal Carcinoma: Starts in the breast ducts.
Lobular Carcinoma: Starts in the mammary glands.
2. Causes of breast cancer
Breast cancer can have many causes, some of which are as follows:
- Genetics: Changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Aging: Risk is higher after 50 years.
- Hormonal imbalance
- Early onset or late cessation of menstruation
- Late pregnancy for the first time
- Alcohol and smoking
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise
- High fat diet
3. Symptoms of breast cancer awareness
In most cases of breast cancer, breast cancer cells form a tumor that can be felt mostly as a lump. It can be clearly felt when you place your hand on the breast. Early symptoms of breast cancer can be
- Lump or swelling in the breast
- Abnormal discharge from the nipple (blood or white fluid)
- Change in the shape or colour of the breast
- Nipple turning inward
- Pin or wrinkles on the skin
- Swelling near the armpit or collarbone
- Pain or burning sensation in the breast
4. Diagnosis
A. Self-Examination
Every woman should self-examine her breasts once a month, especially after menstruation.
B. Clinical examination
Examination of the breasts by hand by a doctor.
C. Mammogram
A special type of X-ray that shows the structure inside the breasts. Should be done regularly after the age of 40.
D. Biopsy
Examining tissue by removing it from the lump.
E. Ultrasound or MRI
To know the spread of cancer in the body.
5. Stages of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer has a total of 5 stages:
Stage 0: Only in the ducts or glands; very early.
Stage 1: Tumor less than 2 cm; has not spread to lymph nodes.
Stage 2: Tumor 2-5 cm; may be in lymph nodes.
Stage 3: Spread to breast skin or chest wall.
Stage 4: Spread to other parts of the body (such as lungs, liver, and bones).
6. Treatment of Breast Cancer awareness
Treatment is selected based on stage, age and health:
A. Surgery
Lumpectomy: Only the lump is removed.
Mastectomy: The entire breast is removed.
B. Chemotherapy
Medications are given to kill cancer cells.
C. Radiotherapy
Radiation to shrink or eliminate the tumor.
D. Hormone therapy
For hormone-sensitive tumors.
E. Targeted therapy
Drugs that attack specific proteins.
7. Preventive measures
✅ 1. Regular screening
- Every woman should get a mammography done every year after the age of 40.
✅ 2. Healthy lifestyle
- Healthy diet (fruits, vegetables, fiber)
- Regular exercise
- Weight control
✅ 3. Avoid smoking and alcohol
✅ 4. Breastfeeding
- Research suggests that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer.
✅ 5. Avoid mental stress
8. Breast cancer in men
Although cancer usually occurs in women, men can also be affected by it. It is very rare in men, but the symptoms are almost the same — lumps, nipple discharge, and skin changes.
9. Status of breast cancer in the US
In 2024, 310,720 new breast cancer cases are expected to be reported in the US. And in India too, about 150,000 new cases are reported every year.
- Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women.
- In rural areas, there is a significant lack of awareness.
10. Myths related to breast cancer awareness
| Myth | Truth |
| it only happens to old women | Young women can also be affected by it |
| If the lump doesn’t hurt then it’s not cancer | Absence of pain can also be cancer |
| breastfeeding causes cancer | On the contrary, breastfeeding reduces the risk |
| If the cancer has spread, there is no cure. | Treatment is possible in many stages |
11. What is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated every year in the month of October everywhere. Its main objective is to spread awareness about breast cancer among women (and men) so that people can recognize its symptoms on time and get early examination and treatment. During this month, various health organizations, hospitals, NGOs, and media run campaigns together, which include campaigns like giving information, organizing screening camps, wearing pink ribbons, and fundraising.
For more details about breast cancer awareness you can visit trusted medical sources like National Breast Cancer Foundation.
The main objective of this month is:
- To spread information about the symptoms of breast cancer everywhere
- To motivate everyone to get mammography and examination on time
- To provide mental and social support to patients
- To collect funds for research and treatment
- During this time, the pink ribbon is a symbol of breast cancer awareness. It inspires women to be aware of their health and to make a habit of regular examination.
- Cancer treatment is available free of cost in some states of India. For example, institutions like Tata Memorial Hospital and AIIMS: treatment is free or at concessional rates.
12. How can lifestyle improvement help in preventing breast cancer? How to avoid it?
- 30 minutes of walking or exercise every day
- Eating fruits and vegetables 5 days a week
- Yoga and meditation to reduce stress
- Medical checkup once a year
Conclusion of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer awareness can be fatal, but it can be completely cured with timely detection and proper treatment. What is required for this is proper awareness, regular checkups, and a healthy lifestyle. Every woman should not delay in recognizing the changes in her body and seeking medical advice. Society also needs to support and give breast cancer awareness to women.
Disclaimer: All the information given above (breast cancer awareness ) is only for information for all of you. Please consult your doctor for the right medical advice at the right time.
