Welcome to Evercare Hospital Chattogram.
Breast Cancer: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Dr. Hasnina Akter
Author
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. It develops when breast cells grow abnormally, forming a tumor that can enlarge and spread to other parts of the breast and body.
Causes of Breast Cancer
The exact cause is not fully understood, but risk factors include:
Age: Risk increases with age.
Family History: Having relatives with breast cancer raises risk.
Hormone Therapy after Menopause: Increases likelihood of developing breast cancer.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Can elevate risk.
Obesity: Associated with higher risk.
Early Menstruation: Starting periods at a younger age increases risk.
Late Menopause: Having menopause at an older age raises risk.
Never Having Children or Not Breastfeeding: Increases susceptibility.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Symptoms vary but common signs include:
Lump or thickening in the breast
Changes in breast size or shape
Nipple discharge
Red or scaly patches on breast skin
Skin texture changes on the breast
Nipple inversion
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Common diagnostic tests include:
Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast.
Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to image the breast.
Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample for examination.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
Treatment depends on the patient’s age, health, cancer type, and stage:
Surgery to remove cancerous tumors
Radiotherapy using radiation to destroy cancer cells
Chemotherapy with drugs targeting cancer
Hormone Therapy to block cancer cell growth linked to hormones
Targeted Therapy focusing on specific cancer cell components
Prevention of Breast Cancer
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy weight.
Quit smoking as it increases risk.
Limit alcohol intake.
Perform regular self-exams and consult a doctor if you notice any changes.
Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes. Evercare Hospital Chattogram encourages awareness and proactive care for breast health.