Breast cancer is a widespread issue, especially in developed countries, ranking second only to lung cancer in cancer-related deaths. Globally, it affects 1.67 million women annually, with a higher impact in less developed regions. While age increases the risk, breast cancer can affect women of any age, albeit rarely before puberty.
Screening and Detection
Starting at age 40, regular mammograms and ultrasounds aid early detection, improving the chances of successful treatment.
Symptoms
A common sign is a painless breast lump, though it can sometimes be painful. Other symptoms include nipple discharge and armpit lumps.
Diagnosis
Consult a doctor to determine if a lump is cancerous. A triple assessment, including clinical examination, imaging (ultrasound and mammogram), and a biopsy, provides a diagnosis in most cases. Surgery may be needed for inconclusive results.
Staging
After diagnosis, tests like blood work, abdominal ultrasound, chest X-rays, and bone scans assess the cancer's stage. Some patients require PET-CT scans for accurate staging.
Types
Breast cancer isn't one-size-fits-all; subtypes exist, categorized through immunohistochemistry studies.
- Estrogen and progesterone receptor-positive (ER/PR+)
- Estrogen and progesterone receptor-negative (ER/PR-)
- HER2-enriched
- Triple-negative breast cancers
Treatment
Treatment depends on factors like disease stage, age, patient health, and treatment preferences.
- Surgery: In the early stages, surgery removes the tumor and lymph nodes. Breast reconstruction can be done later.
- Sentinel Node Biopsy: Identifies the first node where cancer spreads and minimizes side effects of full axillary dissection.
- Chemotherapy: Reduces tumor size, making breast conservation possible or treating stage 3 cancer.
- Adjuvant Therapy: Given after surgery, includes chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, radiation, and targeted therapy.
- Advanced Cancer: Stage IV treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve life quality through a combination of therapies.