Breast cancer: symptoms, causes and prevention

Breast cancer is a disease that affects millions of women around the world, but with the right awareness, early detection and the adoption of preventive measures, we can fight it effectively.

It is essential to share information about breast cancer to promote women's health and wellbeing. Below, we will talk about breast cancer: symptoms, causes and prevention.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

1. Lump in the breast: A lump or nodule in the breast is one of the most common symptoms. It may feel like a thickening or hard mass in the breast.
2. Changes in breast size or shape: Breast cancer can cause visible changes in the shape or size of one or both breasts.
3. Skin changes: This includes redness, irritation, dimpling or flaking of the skin in the breast area.
4. Nipple discharge: The appearance of unusual discharge, especially blood, from the nipple should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
5. Breast pain: Although breast pain is common and rarely related to cancer, any persistent or unexplained pain should be investigated.

Causes of breast cancer

Although the exact causes of breast cancer are not always clear, there are known risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing this disease:

1. Family history: Having close relatives with a history of breast cancer increases the risk.
2. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, being more common in women over 50.
3. Genetics: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can significantly increase the risk.
4. Hormones: Prolonged exposure to female sex hormones, such as oestrogen, may increase the risk.
5. Lifestyle factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity and lack of physical activity are modifiable risk factors.

Prevention strategies

1. Breast self-examination: Perform breast self-examinations regularly to detect possible changes. Consult a healthcare professional if you find anything unusual.
2. Regular mammograms: Mammograms are essential for early detection. Speak to your doctor about the appropriate frequency according to your age and risk.
3. Know your risk: If you have a family history of breast cancer, speak to a geneticist to assess your genetic risk and appropriate preventive measures.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Adopt a balanced diet, exercise regularly and limit alcohol consumption to reduce risk.
5. Psychological support: Maintaining a positive mindset and seeking emotional support can be fundamental in the prevention and management of breast cancer.

Types of breast cancer

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)

This is the most common type. It originates in the milk ducts of the breast and can spread to nearby tissues. Symptoms may include a lump in the breast, changes in the shape or size of the breast, or changes in the breast skin.

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC)

This type begins in the lobules of the mammary glands and can spread through the wall of the lobules into surrounding tissues. It often does not feel like a lump in the breast and is more difficult to detect through self-examinations.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

Although considered an early form of breast cancer, DCIS has not invaded surrounding tissues. It is found in the milk ducts and is treated with surgery to prevent it from becoming invasive.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)

Similar to DCIS, LCIS does not invade nearby tissues. It originates in the lobules of the mammary gland and is generally detected through biopsies performed for other reasons.

Inflammatory

Although rare, this type of breast cancer is characterised by inflammation of the breast skin. It can be aggressive and is usually treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Triple negative

This type of cancer has no receptors for oestrogen, progesterone or HER2, which limits hormonal treatment options and targeted therapies. It is important to work with a medical team specialised in this type of cancer.

HER2-positive

This type of cancer has an overexpression of the HER2 protein and can be treated with specific targeted therapies, in addition to conventional treatments.

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but with the right awareness and timely medical care, survival rates are high. It is essential that women equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to care for their breast health.

Always consult your doctor about any concern related to your breast health, as early detection can make a difference to prognosis and quality of life.

For more information, consult our infographic. You can also access the website of the Spanish Breast Cancer Federation.