Breast Cancer

Description:

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide and can also affect men.

Symptoms:

Lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge (other than breast milk), breast pain, redness or pitting of the breast skin.

Risk Factors:

Age (risk increases with age), family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2), personal history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases, hormonal factors (early menstruation, late menopause), obesity, alcohol consumption.

Prevention:

Regular breast cancer screening (mammograms, clinical breast exams), maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, breastfeeding, being physically active, avoiding exposure to radiation and environmental pollution.

Treatment Options:

Surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy.

Support Resources:

Breast cancer support groups, online forums (e.g., BreastCancer.org), counseling services, financial assistance programs, survivorship programs.