What Is Breast Cancer? Signs, History, Identification, Administration & Prevention.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the breast. It is the most common cancer in women worldwide, though men can also develop it. Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. While some tumors are benign (non-cancerous), breast cancer tumors are malignant, meaning they have the potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer primarily begins in either the ducts that carry milk to the nipple (ductal carcinoma) or the glands that produce milk (lobular carcinoma). There are other, less common types of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer. In advanced cases, breast cancer may spread to lymph nodes under the arm or other organs in the body, such as the lungs, liver, bones, or brain.

Signs of Breast Cancer

The signs and symptoms of breast cancer can vary, but common indicators include:

1. A lump in the breast or underarm: This is often one of the first signs of breast cancer. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new mass or lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
2. Changes in breast size or shape: A sudden change in the appearance or size of the breast may signal the presence of a tumor.
3. Nipple discharge: While discharge is common, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, bloody or unusual discharge could be a warning sign of breast cancer.
4. Skin changes on the breast: Redness, dimpling, or thickening of the skin can indicate inflammatory breast cancer.
5. Nipple inversion: A nipple that turns inward or becomes flattened may suggest an underlying issue, such as a tumor growing behind the nipple.
6. Breast pain: Though breast pain is not usually associated with breast cancer, persistent or unusual discomfort should not be ignored.

Early detection of it improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular self-examinations and screening, such as mammograms, can help identify any changes early on.

History of Breast Cancer

It has been recognized for thousands of years, with early references found in ancient Egypt. The “Edwin Smith Papyrus,” a medical text dating back to around 1600 BCE, describes cases of breast tumors treated with cauterization.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, medical advancements made it possible to better understand the disease. French surgeon Jean Louis Petit was among the first to perform mastectomies (removal of the breast) as a treatment for breast cancer in the 1700s. His work helped lay the groundwork for the development of modern breast cancer surgery.

The 20th century saw tremendous progress in breast cancer research and treatment, especially with the development of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapies. Dr. William Stewart Halsted pioneered radical mastectomy procedures in the late 19th century, although less aggressive surgical techniques were developed over time, preserving more breast tissue while effectively treating the cancer.

The discovery of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in the 1990s marked a major milestone in understanding hereditary breast cancer. Women who carry mutations in these genes have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer, and this has led to the development of preventive strategies, including prophylactic surgeries and targeted therapies.

Identification of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can be identified through a combination of self-examinations, clinical exams, and screening tools. Here are the primary methods for identifying breast cancer:

1. Breast Self-Exam: Women are encouraged to perform regular self-exams to detect any unusual changes in their breasts. While this alone does not diagnose breast cancer, it helps women become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, so they can notice any changes early.
2. Clinical Breast Exam: A healthcare professional performs a physical examination to feel for lumps or abnormalities. Clinical exams are often done during routine check-ups and are recommended annually for women in certain age groups.
3. Mammogram: Mammography is an imaging technique used to detect early signs of breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue. Mammograms are a standard screening tool and are recommended for women aged 40 and older, though earlier screening may be recommended for those with a higher risk of breast cancer.
4. Ultrasound and MRI: These imaging techniques are sometimes used alongside mammograms to provide more detailed images. Ultrasound is particularly useful for distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, while MRI can help identify cancers that may not be visible on a mammogram.
5. Biopsy: If imaging detects a suspicious mass, a biopsy is typically performed to confirm the presence of cancer. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast and examined under a microscope to determine whether it is cancerous.
6. Genetic Testing: Genetic testing for mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genes can help identify women at higher risk for developing breast cancer. This information is especially useful for women with a family history of the disease.

Administration and Treatment of Breast Cancer

The treatment of breast cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Common treatment options include:

1. Surgery: Surgery is a common first-line treatment for it. Options include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). In some cases, lymph nodes are also removed to prevent the spread of cancer.
2. Radiation Therapy: After surgery, radiation therapy may be used to destroy any remaining cancer cells. It is often recommended after a lumpectomy and can reduce the risk of recurrence.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
4. Hormonal Therapy: Some types of these are hormone receptor-positive, meaning they grow in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. Hormonal therapies, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, block these hormones and help slow the growth of cancer cells.
5. Targeted Therapy: Drugs like Herceptin (trastuzumab) target specific proteins in cancer cells, such as HER2, and are used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. Targeted therapies are often used in combination with other treatments to improve outcomes.
6. Immunotherapy: Emerging treatments in breast cancer include immunotherapy, which helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. This approach is still being studied but has shown promise for certain types of breast cancer.

Prevention of Breast Cancer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, several strategies can reduce the risk:

1. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower the risk of breast cancer.
2. Regular Screening: Early detection through regular mammograms and clinical exams is crucial for catching cancer at an early, treatable stage.
3. Limit Hormone Therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Women considering HRT for menopausal symptoms should discuss risks and benefits with their doctor.
4. Genetic Testing and Counseling: Women with a family history of breast cancer or known genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, may benefit from genetic counseling and preventive strategies, including increased surveillance or prophylactic surgeries.

By staying informed about it and taking proactive measures for early detection, individuals can significantly reduce their risk and improve their chances of successful treatment.