Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both men and women, although it is far more common in women. Breast cancer can develop in different parts of the breast, including the milk ducts, the lobules, or in the connective tissue.
What is Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that originates in the cells of the breast. It primarily affects the tissues in the breast, usually starting in the milk ducts or lobules (the parts of the breast responsible for milk production). Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, although it is far more common in women.
The disease is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells within the breast tissue. Over time, these cancer cells can form a lump or mass called a tumor. If left untreated, breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream, which is known as metastasis.
Breast cancer can manifest in various forms, and there are several different types of breast cancer, such as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma, invasive lobular carcinoma, and others. Its severity and prognosis depend on factors like the stage at which it is diagnosed, the type of breast cancer, and the presence of specific molecular markers, such as hormone receptors (estrogen and progesterone receptors) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2).
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer
Breast cancer can manifest with a variety of signs and symptoms, but it’s important to note that not all of these symptoms necessarily indicate breast cancer, and many of them can be caused by benign conditions. If you notice any of the following changes in your breasts, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation:
- Lump in the Breast: The most common symptom of breast cancer is a painless lump or thickening in the breast or underarm. Not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any new or unusual lump should be examined.
- Change in Breast Size or Shape: Any unexplained change in the size or shape of one or both breasts should be evaluated.
- Breast Pain: While breast cancer is not typically associated with pain, some women do experience breast discomfort or pain. However, pain alone is not a reliable indicator of breast cancer.
- Changes in the Skin: Be on the lookout for changes in the skin on or around the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering. Also, skin that appears scaly, itchy, or has ridges or pitting should be checked.
- Nipple Changes: Changes in the nipple can include nipple inversion (pulling inward), discharge other than breast milk, or any new pain or discomfort around the nipple.
- Nipple or Areola Abnormalities: If you notice any changes in the nipple or areola, such as scaling, crusting, or the nipple turning inward (inversion), it should be investigated.
- Swelling: Unexplained swelling of the breast, particularly if it occurs in one breast and not the other, should be assessed.
- Axillary Lymph Node Changes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the underarm area (axilla) can be a sign that breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. This can sometimes be felt as a lump under the arm.
Types of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a complex disease with several different types and subtypes. These types can be categorized based on where they originate within the breast, whether they are invasive or non-invasive, and the presence or absence of certain receptors. The most common types of breast cancer include:
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
DCIS is a non-invasive type of breast cancer that originates in the milk ducts. It has not spread beyond the ducts into surrounding breast tissue. DCIS is considered stage 0 breast cancer.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
This is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. IDC starts in the milk ducts but then invades nearby breast tissues.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
ILC starts in the lobules (milk-producing glands) of the breast and can spread to nearby tissues. It accounts for about 10-15% of invasive breast cancers.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
IBC is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. It often causes the breast to appear red and swollen and may not present as a distinct lump. It is typically at a more advanced stage at diagnosis.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
This type of breast cancer lacks three common receptors found in some breast cancers: estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and HER2/neu receptors. It can be more challenging to treat because it does not respond to hormonal therapies or targeted therapies designed for other types.
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
This type of breast cancer overexpresses the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. Targeted therapies, such as Herceptin, are often used in treatment.
Hormone Receptor-Positive (HR+) Breast Cancer
This type of breast cancer is characterized by the presence of hormone receptors, such as estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR). Hormone therapies like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are often used in the treatment of HR+ breast cancer.
Male Breast Cancer
Though rare, breast cancer can occur in men. It is typically similar to some types of breast cancer seen in women.
Metastatic Breast Cancer
When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is referred to as metastatic breast cancer. The type of breast cancer cells found in the distant site is the same as the original breast cancer. For example, metastatic breast cancer originating from a ductal carcinoma would still be called metastatic ductal carcinoma.
Inflammatory breast cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. It is characterized by the rapid onset of symptoms, which often mimic inflammation or infection of the breast. Unlike other types of breast cancer, IBC does not typically present as a lump or mass that can be felt through self-examination or seen on imaging studies like mammograms. Instead, it tends to infiltrate the breast tissue, causing the breast to become swollen, red, and warm to the touch.
Key characteristics and symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer include:
- Breast Changes: The affected breast often becomes larger, firmer, and swollen. It may also appear red or purple, with an orange peel-like texture (referred to as “peau d’orange”).
- Rapid Progression: IBC tends to progress rapidly, with symptoms worsening over a short period of time, sometimes weeks to months. This rapid growth is one of the distinguishing features of IBC.
- Breast Pain: Many individuals with IBC experience breast tenderness, pain, or aching.
- Skin Changes: The skin over the breast may feel warm to the touch and may develop ridges or dimples.
- Nipple Changes: The nipple may become inverted or change in appearance.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone may be enlarged and feel firm.
Triple-negative breast cancer
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer characterized by the absence of three specific receptors that are commonly used to classify and treat breast cancer: estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). TNBC does not express these receptors, which makes it distinct from other breast cancer subtypes.
Key points about triple-negative breast cancer include:
- Lack of Receptors: TNBC tumors lack estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER/PR-negative) and do not overexpress HER2 (HER2-negative). These receptors play a crucial role in the growth and spread of most breast cancers.
- Diagnosis: TNBC is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging, biopsy, and laboratory tests that assess the expression of these receptors.
- Subtype Prevalence: TNBC accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancer cases. It is more common in younger women, African American women, and those with a BRCA1 gene mutation.
- Treatment Challenges: TNBC is challenging to treat because it does not respond to hormone therapies or targeted treatments that are effective for other breast cancer subtypes. It is usually treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy.
- Aggressive Nature: TNBC tends to be more aggressive and has a higher likelihood of recurrence than other breast cancer types. However, some TNBCs respond well to chemotherapy.
- Research and Clinical Trials: Researchers are actively working on finding more effective treatments for TNBC. Clinical trials are ongoing to test new therapies, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies that focus on specific genetic mutations in TNBC.
- Prognosis: The prognosis for TNBC can vary widely depending on factors such as tumor size, grade, and stage at diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
- Support and Awareness: Due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options, TNBC patients often benefit from support groups, counseling, and raising awareness about this subtype.
Breast cancer stages
Breast cancer is typically staged to determine the extent of the disease and to guide treatment decisions. The most commonly used system for staging breast cancer is the TNM system, which stands for Tumor, Nodes, and Metastasis. This system takes into account the size of the primary tumor (T), whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes (N), and whether it has metastasized (spread to distant organs, most commonly the bones, lungs, liver, or brain) (M). The combination of these factors helps determine the overall stage of the cancer. The stages are typically expressed as 0, I, II, III, and IV, with sub-stages indicated by letters (e.g., IIa, IIb).
Here’s an overview of the stages of breast cancer:
Stage 0 (In Situ): This is the earliest stage, where the cancer is confined to the milk ducts or lobules of the breast. It has not invaded nearby tissues and is considered non-invasive. There are two types: a. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) b. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
Stage I: At this stage, the tumor is small and confined to the breast. It hasn’t spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant sites.
Stage II: This stage is divided into two sub-stages: a. Stage IIA: The tumor is either small and has spread to a few nearby lymph nodes, or it is larger but hasn’t spread to the lymph nodes. b. Stage IIB: The tumor is larger and may or may not have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III: Stage III is divided into sub-stages: a. Stage IIIA: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes and the tumor may be of various sizes. b. Stage IIIB: The cancer has spread extensively to nearby lymph nodes and may have invaded the chest wall or skin. c. Stage IIIC: The tumor may be of any size, and cancer has spread to a significant number of nearby lymph nodes.
Stage IV: In this stage, the cancer has spread to distant organs or distant lymph nodes. Stage IV is also known as metastatic breast cancer and is considered advanced. Treatment at this stage is typically focused on managing the disease rather than curing it.
Breast cancer survival rate
The survival rate for breast cancer can vary depending on several factors, including the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed, the type of breast cancer, and the treatment received. Survival rates are typically expressed as a percentage and represent the proportion of people with a specific condition (in this case, breast cancer) who are still alive after a certain period of time, usually five years.
It’s important to note that survival rates are general statistics and may not accurately predict an individual’s outcome. Many factors can influence a person’s prognosis, including their overall health and response to treatment.
Here are some general statistics for breast cancer survival rates, based on the stage at diagnosis:
Stage 0 (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, DCIS): The five-year survival rate is close to 100% because DCIS is non-invasive, and the cancer cells are confined to the milk ducts.
Stage I: Five-year survival rate is typically around 100% or very close to it, especially if the cancer is small and has not spread to lymph nodes.
Stage II: The five-year survival rate is generally around 90-93%. Survival rates can vary within this stage, depending on factors such as tumor size and lymph node involvement.
Stage III: The five-year survival rate for stage III breast cancer can range from 72% to 88%. This stage represents more advanced cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage IV (Metastatic): The five-year survival rate for stage IV breast cancer is much lower, typically around 22%. Stage IV breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body, and it is considered incurable, but treatment can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.
Breast cancer treatment
Surgery
- Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery): Removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue.
- Mastectomy: Removes the entire breast.
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection may be performed to assess lymph node involvement.
Radiation Therapy
- Used after breast-conserving surgery to target any remaining cancer cells.
- Can also be recommended after a mastectomy if there’s a high risk of cancer recurrence.
Chemotherapy
- Administered as systemic treatment to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
- Used to treat early-stage breast cancer or to shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy).
Hormone Therapy
- Often used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.
- Blocks the effects of estrogen in the body or lowers estrogen levels to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
- Designed to target specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth.
- Often used in conjunction with chemotherapy or hormone therapy for certain types of breast cancer.
Immunotherapy
- May be used in some cases to stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells.
Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Therapy
- Neoadjuvant therapy is given before surgery to shrink tumors and increase the chances of successful surgery.
- Adjuvant therapy is given after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
Supportive Care
- Management of side effects, including pain, nausea, and fatigue.
- Emotional and psychological support through counseling and support groups.
Clinical Trials
- Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments and help advance our understanding of breast cancer.
Risk factors for breast cancer
Breast cancer is a complex disease, and its development is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. While the exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified. It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that an individual will develop breast cancer, and many people with breast cancer have no known risk factors. Here are some common risk factors associated with breast cancer:
Gender: Breast cancer is much more common in women than in men. Although men can develop breast cancer, it is about 100 times more common in women.
Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Most breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50.
Family History: A family history of breast cancer, especially in close relatives (such as a mother, sister, or daughter), can increase the risk. Having a first-degree relative with breast cancer can roughly double a woman’s risk.
Inherited Gene Mutations: Some individuals carry mutations in specific genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic counseling and testing can help identify these mutations.
Personal History of Breast Cancer: If a person has previously had breast cancer, they have a higher risk of developing a second breast cancer, either in the same breast or the other breast.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progestin) during and after menopause can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Reproductive and Menstrual History: Factors related to a woman’s reproductive history, such as early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), and having the first child at an older age, can influence the risk.
Dense Breast Tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer. Dense breast tissue can make it more challenging to detect tumors on mammograms.
Radiation Exposure: Previous exposure to ionizing radiation, especially during childhood or adolescence, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause, is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
Alcohol Consumption: Regular and excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle may contribute to a higher risk of breast cancer.
Hormone Levels: Elevated levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer prevention
Breast cancer prevention involves a combination of lifestyle changes, early detection, and risk reduction strategies. While it’s not always possible to prevent breast cancer entirely, you can take steps to reduce your risk. Here are some key strategies:
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
- Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of red meat and processed foods.
- Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for breast cancer, especially after menopause. Aim to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
- If you consume alcohol, limit your intake. Even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends no more than one drink per day for women.
Breastfeed, if possible
- Breastfeeding has been linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer. If you have the opportunity and choose to breastfeed, it may offer some protection.
Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms can increase the risk of breast cancer. If you are considering HRT, discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Know Your Family History
- Understanding your family history can help identify potential genetic factors that may increase your risk. If you have a family history of breast cancer, consider genetic counseling and testing.
Screening and Early Detection
- Regular mammograms are an essential part of early detection. Discuss the recommended screening schedule with your healthcare provider, which typically begins at age 40 or 50, depending on your risk factors.
- Perform breast self-exams to become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. Report any changes or abnormalities to your healthcare provider promptly.
Stay Informed and Educated
- Stay up-to-date on the latest research and guidelines for breast cancer prevention. The recommendations may change over time as new information becomes available.
Quit Smoking
- Smoking is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer. If you smoke, seek support to quit.
Limit Exposure to Environmental Carcinogens
- Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, such as pesticides, chemicals, and radiation, that could potentially contribute to the development of cancer.
Manage Stress
- Chronic stress may weaken the immune system and potentially increase the risk of cancer. Engage in stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.
Also Read: Cancer: Definition Types, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
