Breast cancer is amongst the most common type cancer types for Indian women and one of the leading causes of death for women. In rare cases it can affect men.

Breast Benign Lumps vs Malignancy

Breast cancer is caused by mutations or genetic changes in cells of the breast. These mutations cause malignancy (cancer). The mutated cells continue to grow and reproduce severely compromising breast function. Breast cancer can spread (metastasize) to other body parts, meaning the cancer will hit other body parts as well, making treatment substantially harder. Typically, the risk of breast cancer increases with age, making it more common after age 50.

Usually, breast cancer first occurs in either the milk producing glands (lobules) or in the tubes connected to the nipple. While breast cancer can occur in other areas as well, including tissue within the breasts or even on the nipple (such as Pagets of the nipple), these occurrences are not so common.  Male breast cancer is not uncommon and must be taken seriously.

Breast Cancer and BRCA gene

Breast cancer is known to have strong genetic associations in many cases; especially in families with a history of cancer. BRCA gene testing is recommended for families with strong histories of breast cancer. However, environmental factors including lifestyle (for example smoking) can cause breast cancer; not all cases are genetic. Breast cancer can further be bilateral (both breasts) or unilateral (single breast). Usually, breast cancer is unilateral but can spread from one breast to the other.

Breast Cancer Survival Rates

Breast cancer in an early stage has low mortality and is highly treatable, while advanced cases often lead to death. However one should not generalize, there are some breast cancers that spread very easily and some that take years. Prompt treatment and thorough testing is always recommended.