Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and every year, many governmental and non-governmental organizations have events lined up to help increase awareness of this dreadful disease and also help fight the disease the best way possible.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women and the second leading cause of death among women. Many women have died as a result of ignoring minor signs and changes in their breasts.

It is a type of cancer that develops from breast tissue. There are many types, and they include non-invasive, invasive, recurrent, and metastatic breast cancers, as well as the intrinsic or molecular subtypes of breast cancer.

What are the causes?

The causes of breast cancer are not yet fully known, although several risk factors have been discussed. However, the risk of getting the disease increases with age, but several studies have shown that approximately 7% of women with breast cancer are diagnosed before the age of 40 years.

Although women in other age ranges might be at risk, the age range for breast cancer is 35 to 45 years.

How can I tell if I have breast cancer?

Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no distinct lump is felt)
Skin irritation or dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel)
Breast or nipple pain
Nipple retraction (turning inward)
Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
A swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone

Can it be prevented?

Breast Cancer

Although there is no sure way to prevent it, there are things you can do that might lower your risk, and they include the following:

1. Healthy Eating

Eating healthy food would reduce your risk of breast cancer. It is recommended to include fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily meals.

2. Be Physically Active

Many studies have shown that moderate to vigorous physical activity is linked with lower breast cancer risk, so it’s important to engage in regular physical activity.

3. Limit or No Alcohol

Alcohol also increases the risk. Even low levels of alcohol intake have been linked with an increased risk. To reduce your risk of breast cancer, stay away from alcohol or reduce your alcohol intake.

Why is breast examination important?

Once you hit puberty, it’s important to be breast-aware and check your breasts regularly. Getting to know how your breasts look and feel will help you know what is normal for you. You will then be more confident about noticing any unusual changes that might be a symptom of breast cancer and reporting them to your doctor.

ALSO READ: Here’s A Detailed Guide On How To Do A Breast Self-Examination

How do you check your breasts?

Breast Cancer

Step 1

Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. If you see any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor’s attention

Step 2

While you’re at the mirror, look for any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples (this could be a watery, milky, or yellow fluid or blood).

Step 3

Feel your breasts while lying down, using your right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few finger pads of your hand, keeping the fingers flat and together. Use a circular motion, about the size of a quarter.

Step 4

Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements.

The most important thing to note in the battle against breast cancer is early detection. If you check your breast regularly and find any abnormal change, tell a medical doctor immediately.