Breast Cancer: Causes and Prevention

Breast cancer is a health condition that has been widely studied and extensively discussed. However, there are still misconceptions and uncertainties surrounding this disease. Here we provide a guide to understanding breast cancer, its causes, risk factors, and treatments.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant growth that begins in the cells of the breast. This growth is the result of uncontrolled cell reproduction in the tissues that make up the breast. Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer does not only affect women; men can also be diagnosed with the disease, albeit less frequently.

Breast cancer can manifest in non-invasive forms, which are confined to the site of origin, or invasive forms, which have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly increase the chances of successfully managing the disease.

Causes and Risk Factors

Like other cancer types, breast cancer originates from the accumulation of genetic mutations in the DNA of cells. These mutations lead to uncontrolled cell growth, resulting in the formation of a malignant tumor. While the exact causes of these mutations remain unknown, researchers have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Modifiable Risk Factors

These are risk factors that individuals can control or modify through lifestyle changes. They include:

• Obesity: Overweight and obese post-menopausal women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women of the same age with a healthy weight.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of breast cancer. Regular physical activity can reduce this risk.
• Alcohol Consumption: Regular consumption of 2-3 alcoholic drinks a day can increase the risk of breast cancer by 20 times compared to non-drinkers.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains carcinogenic substances that contribute to the onset of several cancers, including breast cancer.
• Hormonal Therapies: Post-menopausal hormonal therapies increase the risk of breast cancer, especially when continued for long periods.
• Contraceptive Pill: The combined contraceptive pill slightly increases the risk of breast cancer due to its estrogen content.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

These are risk factors that individuals cannot control or change. They include:

• Gender: Women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer than men due to differences in breast tissue composition and hormone levels.
• Age: The risk of breast cancer significantly increases from the age of 50.
• Genetic Predisposition: Certain inherited genetic mutations (ex. BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes) significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
• Dense Breasts: Women with dense breasts, with more glandular and connective tissue than adipose tissue, are more likely to develop breast cancer.
• Reproductive History: Women who had their first menstruation before the age of 12 or entered menopause after the age of 55 are at a higher risk due to prolonged exposure to estrogen.
• Previous Breast Cancer: Women with a history of benign or non-invasive malignant breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing invasive breast cancer.
• Chest Radiotherapy: Individuals who have undergone radiotherapy to treat chest tumors at a young age are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer later.

Treatment and Prevention

Breast cancer is treatable, especially when diagnosed early. Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and their personal preferences.

Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy body weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. Women with a high genetic risk may consider more aggressive preventive measures, such as preventive mastectomy.

Regular screening and early detection are crucial in managing breast cancer. It is recommended that women regularly perform breast self-examinations and have regular clinical breast examinations and mammograms.

Conclusion

Understanding breast cancer, its causes, risk factors, and treatments, is crucial in managing the disease. While some risk factors are beyond our control, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Regular screening and early detection remain the most effective strategies in combating this disease. As with any health concern, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment.