What Is Breast Cancer? – CDC

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. It can occur in both men and women, but it is far more common in women.

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast start to grow out of control. These cells usually form a tumor that can often be seen on an x-ray or felt as a lump. The tumor is malignant (cancerous) if the cells can grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body. Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get breast cancer, too.

The exact cause of breast cancer is not known, but certain risk factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Some of these risk factors include:

1. Gender: Being a woman is the primary risk factor for breast cancer. Men can also develop breast cancer, but it is rare.
2. Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 50 and older.
3. Family History and Genetics: A family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter), can increase the risk. Certain gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, also increase the risk of breast cancer.
4. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Birth Control Pills: Some forms of hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
5. Reproductive and Menstrual History: Women who started menstruating at an early age (before 12) or went through menopause late (after 55) have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer. Women who have never had children or had their first child after the age of 30 also have a slightly higher risk.
6. Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation therapy to the chest area, especially during adolescence, increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
7. Alcohol Consumption and Obesity: Consuming alcohol and being overweight or obese can increase the risk of breast cancer.

It’s important for individuals to be aware of their risk factors and to undergo regular screenings, such as mammograms, to detect breast cancer early when it is most treatable. Early detection and advances in treatment have significantly improved the outlook for people diagnosed with breast cancer.

The warning signs of breast cancer can vary, but there are some common signs and symptoms that individuals should be aware of. It’s important to note that having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer, but if you experience any of the following changes, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation:

1. Lump in the Breast or Underarm: The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue. Lumps are usually painless, although some may cause a noticeable discomfort.
2. Changes in the Size, Shape, or Appearance of the Breast: Breast cancer can cause changes in the size, shape, or appearance of one or both breasts. This could include swelling, dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipple, such as it becoming inverted (turned inward) or developing a rash.
3. Nipple Discharge: Clear or bloody discharge from the nipple, especially if it occurs without squeezing the nipple, may be a cause for concern. However, many nipple discharge cases are due to benign conditions.
4. Skin Changes on the Breast: Redness, thickening, or pitting (resembling the skin of an orange) on the breast skin can be a sign of advanced breast cancer. These changes happen due to cancer cells blocking lymph vessels in the skin.
5. Breast Pain: While breast cancer is not usually associated with pain, some individuals with breast cancer do experience breast pain. It’s important to note that most breast pain is not related to cancer but can be due to hormonal changes, injury, or benign breast conditions.

It’s crucial to perform regular breast self-exams and be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any of these changes or have concerns about your breast health, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly for evaluation and, if necessary, further diagnostic tests like mammograms or ultrasounds. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment for breast cancer.

While it’s not possible to completely prevent breast cancer, there are several lifestyle changes and risk-reducing strategies that can lower your overall risk. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise can help lower your risk.
2. Be Physically Active: Engage in regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to no more than one drink per day.
4. Quit Smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly in younger, premenopausal women. Quitting smoking not only reduces your risk of breast cancer but also has numerous other health benefits.
5. Breastfeed, If Possible: Women who breastfeed their babies for at least several months may have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer.
6. Limit Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): If you are considering hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits. Long-term use of combined hormone therapy (estrogen and progestin) has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
7. Know Your Family History: If you have a family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives, inform your healthcare provider. They can assess your risk and recommend appropriate screening and preventive measures.
8. Be Aware of Radiation Exposure: Minimize your exposure to unnecessary radiation, especially during medical imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans. If possible, choose non-ionizing radiation imaging techniques.
9. Consider Genetic Testing: If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations may be appropriate. These mutations significantly increase the risk of breast cancer and can guide preventive measures and screenings.

Remember that these steps can help reduce your risk, but they do not guarantee prevention. Regular screenings, including mammograms and self-exams, remain important for early detection. It’s essential to discuss your individual risk factors and the appropriate screening schedule with your healthcare provider.