Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among women, with a case diagnosed every 15 seconds and a fatality every 50 seconds.
Breast cancer is caused by a complex interaction between genetic makeup and environmental factors, leading to abnormal and uncontrolled growth of breast cells, which form tumours that may spread to other parts of the body, causing further destruction.
Risk Factors and Causes
While the exact causes of breast cancer remain unknown, several interconnected factors increase the risk of developing the disease. These factors include genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices. Key risk factors include:
Gender: Being female is the strongest risk factor, with 99% of cases occurring in women. However, men can also develop breast cancer, with male cases accounting for 0.5-1% of the total.
Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 50. Most men diagnosed with breast cancer are over 60.
Genetic Mutations: Changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of breast cancer.
Family History: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
Personal Medical History: A history of certain non-cancerous breast conditions or previous breast cancer increases the risk.
Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or had their first child later in life face a higher risk.
Early Menstruation: Starting menstruation before the age of 12 raises the risk.
Late Menopause: Women who experience menopause after age 55 are at increased risk.
Breast Density: Women with higher amounts of fatty breast tissue face a greater risk.
Hormonal Treatments and Birth Control: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives heightens the risk.
Unhealthy Lifestyle: Obesity, lack of exercise, excessive consumption of fatty foods, alcohol, and smoking are all contributing factors.
Signs and Symptoms
Although not all breast changes indicate cancer, it’s essential to monitor them. Early-stage breast cancer often presents no symptoms, and signs usually appear as the tumour grows. Key symptoms include:
Painless swelling or lumps in the breast.
Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
Skin changes, such as dimpling or puckering, giving it an orange-peel texture.
Redness or inflammation of the breast.
Alterations to the nipple, such as inversion or the appearance of a rash or peeling skin.
Unusual discharge from the nipple, including bloody fluid.
As the disease progresses, it can spread to other parts of the body, often starting with the lymph nodes under the arm. Once cancer cells reach organs like the lungs, liver, brain, or bones, symptoms such as bone pain or headaches may arise.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Breast cancer is diagnosed through several methods, including:
Clinical Breast Exam: A physical examination of both breasts and the lymph nodes by a healthcare professional.
Mammogram: X-ray imaging to detect any abnormal lumps.
Ultrasound: Used to determine if a lump is solid or fluid-filled.
Biopsy: A sample of breast tissue is taken to determine if cancerous cells are present.
MRI: Provides detailed images of the breast to aid in diagnosis.
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the individual and the cancer type and stage. It typically includes a combination of:
Surgery: To remove the tumour and possibly nearby lymph nodes or the entire breast.
Radiation Therapy: To reduce the risk of recurrence by targeting surrounding tissue.
Medications: Such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted biological treatments to kill or control cancer cells.
Prevention and Early Detection
Early detection is crucial in improving survival rates. When breast cancer is found early, treatment success rates exceed 95%, and mortality rates can be reduced by up to 30%. Key preventive measures include:
Breast Self-Examination: Conducted monthly from age 20, six to ten days after the start of menstruation.
Clinical Breast Exam: Performed annually by a specialist for women over 40, and every three years for women over 20.
Mammogram: Recommended every two years starting at age 40.
In addition to early detection, making lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer:
Adopting a Healthy Diet: Focus on vegetables, fruits, and fibre-rich foods while avoiding excessive fat, processed foods, and red meat.
Regular Exercise: Staying active can help maintain a healthy weight.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Reducing obesity risk.
Limiting Hormonal Treatments: Minimising the use of birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
By taking proactive steps towards prevention and early detection, women can significantly reduce their risk of breast cancer and increase their chances of successful treatment.
By: Dr Badreyya Al-Harmi, Public Health Consultant, Emirates Public Health Association
