Understanding breast cancer is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. By recognizing symptoms, risk factors, and screening options, you can take proactive steps toward health. Staying informed empowers you to make the best decisions for prevention and care.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. It is the most common cancer among Canadian women, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers.1 Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it is much more common in women.
The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown, but there are a number of risk factors that can increase a person’s chance of developing the disease. These risk factors include:
- Being a woman
- Getting older
- Having a family history of breast cancer
- Having certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
- Being overweight or obese
- Drinking alcohol
- Smoking
Breast Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection of breast cancer is essential for successful treatment. The earlier the disease is found, the more likely it is to be curable. There are a number of ways to detect breast cancer early, including:
- Breast self-exams
- Clinical breast exams
- Mammograms2
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
It is important for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. These include:
- A lump in the breast or underarm
- Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
- Nipple discharge
- Breast pain
- Skin changes on the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering
If a woman experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Breast Cancer: Treatment Options
There are a number of different treatment options for breast cancer, depending on the stage of the disease and the individual patient’s needs.3 Treatment options may include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Immunotherapy
The goal of breast cancer treatment is to remove the cancer and prevent it from coming back. Treatment can also help to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Learn More About Breast Cancer
There are a number of resources available to help people learn more about breast cancer. These resources include:
- The Canadian Cancer Society
- The Breast Cancer Society of Canada
- The National Cancer Institute
- The American Cancer Society
These organizations can provide information about breast cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and support services.