Breast Cancer is caused by abnormal division of the milk duct cells or mammary glands and changes into breast cancer.
Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer
- A lump in the breast (only 15-20% of palpable lumps are breast cancer)
- Changes in the size and shape of the breast
- Skin changes such as dimpling, wrinkling, abnormal thickening, or some areas of the skin becoming scaly
- Nipple retraction, itching, or abnormal redness
- Blood or discharge from the nipple (20% of nipple bleeding cases are symptoms of breast cancer)
- Breast pain (most cancers do not cause pain unless the lump is very large)
- Swelling of the armpit due to enlarged lymph nodes
Among those who visit doctors with breast health problems, 40% have breast lumps. The general approach is breast cancer surgery or biopsy, sending the tissue for laboratory examination to confirm the type of lump, with some found to be breast cancer.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
- Genetics, such as a family history of breast cancer in direct relatives
- Early onset of menstruation or late menopause
- No children or having the first child at an older age
- Long-term use of contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy for more than 5 years
- History of cancer
- Diet high in fat and meat consumption
- Regular alcohol consumption
Management of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy. Breast cancer surgery, which involves removing the entire breast, is the standard approach to managing breast cancer. Currently, breast cancer surgery techniques have advanced significantly, allowing for breast-conserving surgery, mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction. Not all types of breast cancer surgery are suitable for everyone, as the type and stage of cancer must be considered primarily.
Modified Radical Mastectomy
In the past, this surgical method was the standard for all patients. Currently, doctors consider it for patients with large tumors, multiple lumps, small breasts, or those who are unable or contraindicated for post-operative radiation therapy. Performing this surgery on younger patients may have psychological effects. The procedure involves removing breast tissue and the overlying skin, along with the lymph nodes in the armpit, all at once.
Self-Care Techniques to Prevent Breast Cancer
- Eat a nutritionally balanced diet in appropriate amounts
- Exercise regularly, at least 4 hours per week
- Get adequate sleep and rest
- Avoid stress
- Take care of mental health through religious practices and meditation to calm the mind
- Regular health check-ups according to age
