What is Breast Cancer?
Most people, especially women, are familiar with breast cancer and have either experienced it themselves or have a friend or loved one who has battled this type of cancer. In fact, in 2008, the National Cancer Institute reported 182,460 new cases of breast cancer in women, and almost 2,000 new cases in men. Approximately 40,480 women are estimated to lose their battle with breast cancer this year alone.
About the Disease
Breast cancer is defined as a cancer which forms in the tissues of the breast, including the ducts and lobules (glands). The breast is comprised of about 15 to 20 lobes, which contain smaller areas known as lobules. These lobules have a tiny “bulb” at the ends that produce milk. Lobes, lobules and the “bulbs” are connected by narrow tubes called ducts. The most commonly diagnosed form of breast cancer is called ductal carcinoma, which occurs in the cells of the ducts. If cancer manifests in the lobules or lobes, it is known as lobular carcinoma. Lobular carcinoma, unlike ductal carcinoma, may be found in both breasts, rather than just one.
Effects of the Disease
Women affected by breast cancer may undergo a mastectomy, or removal of the breast and all affected tissue. Some women have a double mastectomy, which also involves the removal of the non-affected breast. This is often a preventative measure, as breast cancer may reoccur after a woman has been in remission for a certain period of time. Women who undergo a mastectomy often have their breasts reconstructed immediately following their removal, which often involves breast implants and reconstruction of the nipple. Unfortunately, women who have a mastectomy may not be able to breastfeed if they have a child.
Who Gets Breast Cancer?
Women are generally diagnosed with breast cancer in their early forties to late fifties. However, incidences of breast cancer in much younger women are unfortunately not uncommon. Women who begin menstruating at an early age are also considered to be at a heightened risk of developing breast cancer. In addition, women who have never given birth or gave birth at an older age (late thirties or forties) are also at increased risk. Women with a family history of breast cancer are considered to be at the most risk of one day developing breast cancer, especially if their mother or sister were diagnosed with the disease. Women who have taken estrogen or other hormones, such as progesterone, may be more likely to be diagnosed with the disease, as well as women who consume alcohol regularly. The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer are white.
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
A mammogram is the most common form of testing for breast cancer. A mammogram is essentially an x-ray of the breast. A mammogram is a non-invasive test that can now be performed digitally. The American Cancer Society, along with other related organizations, recommends that all women begin receiving annual mammograms beginning at age 40. However, women with a family history of breast cancer, along with women who have been diagnosed with other types of cancer, such as cervical or ovarian cancer, should begin receiving mammograms in the twenties. Doctors may also rely on a biopsy to diagnose breast cancer, which involves the surgical removal of breast tissue and subsequent testing. A doctor may also administer an MRI or a hormone test as a means of diagnosing this disease.
How is Breast Cancer Treated?
Like other types of cancer, including mesothelioma, the traditional methods of treatment – surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation – are recommended by doctors for the treatment of breast cancer. If breast cancer is detected early, women have a very good chance of going into remission and living cancer-free for many years. However, women who are diagnosed with breast cancer and eventually enter remission are at a heightened risk of developing other forms of cancer, including ovarian and cervical cancer or lung cancer.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
