Breast cancer is when some abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. These cells can turn into a lump or tumour and, if not treated in time, can spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
Most people diagnosed with breast cancer are women, but men can get it too. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early detection can help individuals seek medical care without unnecessary delay.
What Is the Cause of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer starts when changes happen in the DNA of cells in the breast. These changes cause the cells to grow and divide abnormally.
The exact cause is not always identified. Breast cancer is a complex disease caused by a combination of age, genetics, hormonal influences, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Having a risk factor does not mean that a person will develop breast cancer, and some patients may not have any apparent risk factors.
What Are the Usual Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
One of the best-known signs is a new lump in the breast, but it is not the only one. Some breast cancers may not cause symptoms during their early stages.
Warning signs may include:
- A new lump or area of thickening in the breast or underarm
- A significant change in the size or shape of a breast
- Swelling in all or part of the breast
- Dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin
- A newly inverted nipple
- Scaling, irritation or a rash around the nipple
- Unusual nipple discharge, particularly if blood-stained
- Persistent pain in the breast or underarm
- Swollen lymph nodes near the armpit or collarbone
Not all lumps or breast changes are cancerous. Hormonal changes, cysts, and other benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, any new, unusual,l or persistent change should be examined by a doctor.
What Is Breast Awareness?
Breast awareness means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel. Breasts can change during menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. Understanding what is normal for you can make it easier to notice an unusual change.
You should consult a healthcare professional if you notice:
- A lump that was not present before
- A change in the nipple or skin
- An unusual difference between the breasts
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Unexplained nipple discharge
Being breast-aware is useful, but it is not a substitute for a clinical breast examination or doctor-recommended screening.
What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
Some risk factors cannot be changed, while others may be related to lifestyle or hormonal exposure.
Increasing Age
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, but it can also affect younger people.
Family History
Having a close relative, such as a mother, sister, or daughter, with breast or ovarian cancer may increase the risk. However, many people diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
Genetic Changes
Inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase a person’s risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic counselling may be advised for those with a significant family history.
Personal Medical History
A personal history of breast cancer or certain abnormal breast conditions may increase future risk.
Hormonal and Reproductive Factors
Early menstruation, late menopause, and certain types of long-term hormone therapy may affect breast cancer risk.
Lifestyle Factors
Physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and excess body weight after menopause may contribute to a higher risk.
Previous Radiation Exposure
People who received radiation treatment to the chest at a young age may have an increased risk later in life.
Having one or more of these factors does not guarantee the development of breast cancer. A doctor can help assess individual risk and recommend appropriate follow-up.
Why Is Early Detection Important?
Breast cancer may develop without any obvious symptoms. Early detection may provide doctors with more treatment options before the disease progresses.
Do not wait for pain before seeking medical advice. Breast cancer does not always cause pain during its early stages. A painless lump or a slight change in the skin should also be examined.
How Is Breast Cancer Detected?
The tests required will depend on a person’s age, symptoms, breast tissue, medical history,y and overall risk.
Clinical Breast Examination
A doctor or another trained healthcare professional examines the breasts and nearby lymph-node areas for lumps or other unusual changes.
Mammography
A mammogram is a specialised X-ray of the breast. It can detect certain changes that may be too small to feel. Consult your doctor about the appropriate time and frequency for mammography.
Breast Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to examine breast tissue. It can help doctors assess a lump or suspicious area and may be recommended alongside other tests.
Biopsy
If an abnormal area appears suspicious, a small tissue sample may be removed and examined in a laboratory. A biopsy is needed to confirm whether cancer cells are present.
Additional imaging or laboratory tests may be recommended when necessary.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
Treatment is planned according to the type and stage of cancer, characteristics of the tumour, overall health and individual needs.
Treatment may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy in selected cases
Some patients may need a combination of treatments. A multidisciplinary oncology team can review the diagnosis and create an appropriate treatment plan.
Breast Cancer Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent every case of breast cancer. However, healthy habits and appropriate medical follow-up may help reduce certain risks.
Helpful steps include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Staying physically active
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
- Avoiding tobacco
- Discussing hormone therapy with a doctor
- Informing your healthcare provider about your family history of cancer
- Attending recommended screenings and clinical examinations
Individuals with a higher inherited or family-related risk may require a personalised monitoring plan.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Book a medical consultation if you notice a new lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, persistent pain, or any other unusual breast change. Consult a doctor even if a recent screening result was normal.
Most breast changes are not cancerous, but only a medical evaluation can determine the cause.
Breast Cancer Care at Malabar Hospitals – A Complete Approach
Malabar Oncology Centre at Malabar Hospitals offers evaluation and personalised cancer care through an experienced multidisciplinary team. As a trusted Oncology Hospital in Calicut, Malabar Hospitals supports patients with diagnosis, treatment planning, cancer treatment, and follow-up care.
If you have noticed an unusual breast change or are concerned about your risk, consult the oncology team for appropriate medical guidance.
