Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breast. It usually begins in the lobules (milk-producing glands) or ducts (channels that carry milk to the nipple). It is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though it can also occur in men.

Types:

• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Non-invasive cancer that starts in the breast ducts.
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, which spreads from the ducts to other parts of the breast.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Starts in the lobules and can spread.
• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): Does not have estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors; tends to be aggressive.
• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: High levels of HER2 protein, often more aggressive but treatable with targeted therapies.

Risk Factors:

• Genetic Mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations increase risk.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use can increase risk.
• Family History: Higher risk if close family members had breast cancer.
• Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of physical activity.
• Early menarche and late menopause and Lack of breast feeding 

Symptoms:

• Lump or mass in the breast or underarm.
• Change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk.
• Skin changes, such as dimpling or redness.

Investigation:

• Mammogram: Screening test as well as diagnostics that uses X-rays to detect early changes.
• Ultrasound and MRI: Often used for further evaluation of suspicious areas.
• Biopsy: Extraction of tissue samples to confirm diagnosis.
• Genetic Testing: For those with family history or suspected genetic risk.
• PET CT : For staging performance 

Treatment Options:

• Surgery: Lumpectomy or mastectomy to remove the cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: Often used after surgery to eliminate residual cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Commonly used for all stages.
• Hormonal Therapy: Used for hormone receptor-positive cancers.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific proteins, such as HER2-positive tumors.
• Immunotherapy: Triple negative breast cancer – easily as well as late stage 

Prognosis:
Early-stage breast cancer generally has a good prognosis, particularly if detected and treated promptly. Prognosis varies based on cancer type, stage, and responsiveness to treatment. Regular screening after 40, self-breast examination monthly once, mammogram yearly once, after 55 years mammogram twice a year    and early intervention improves outcomes.