Understanding Breast Cancer

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, October blog posts with be allocated to highlighting the importance of understanding the illness and its impact. Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people around the world. It is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in women (and non-binary folks, of course), but it can also affect men.

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast tissue multiply and form a tumor. The breast tissue includes the milk-producing glands (lobules), ducts, and fatty tissue. When cancerous cells grow and spread to other parts of the body, it can cause serious harm.

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 2 million new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year, with approximately 521,000 deaths reported annually.

People often believe breast cancer is just a women’s issue, but it’s not-it’s an everybody issue. Breast cancer can affect anyone with breasts, regardless of gender identity or expression. Non-binary and transgender individuals are also at risk of developing breast cancer, and due to the complexities of gender-affirming surgery/hormone therapy, its difficult to gauge exact risk factor. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 2,200 new cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed in men each year in the United States. Men have a much lower risk of developing breast cancer than women, as their breast tissue differs significantly. It’s mostly composed of fat and connective tissue, whereas women have more glandular tissue and denser breasts-which make it easier for cancer cells to grow and spread. Men also have lower levels of estrogen, which can contribute to breast cancer growth, and higher levels of testosterone, which protects breast tissue from cancer cells.

Breast cancer is a complex and multifactorial disease, and the exact cause is still not fully understood. Research has been able to identify several risk factors now that indicate an increased likelihood of a person developing breast cancer. These include:

• Family History: Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer are at higher risk
• Genetic Mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations increase the risk. The genes help repair DNA damage, and mutations lead to uncontrolled cell growth.
• Reproductive History: Women who’ve had children at a younger age, or who do not have children at all, may be higher risk due to prolonged exposure to estrogen.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk. Exposure to hormones such as estrogen or progesterone can fuel cancer growth.
• Diet: A diet that is high in processed food, refined sugar, and saturated fats may contribute to an increased risk.
• Alcohol Consumption: Having more than a drink per day on average can increase your risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk, especially post-menopause.
• Radiation Exposure: Radiation therapy to the chest can increase the risk (i.e. Hodgkin lymphoma)

Common symptoms of breast cancer include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast tissue
• Changes in the shape or size of the nipple
• Nipple discharge or crusting
• Pain or tenderness in the breast

A mammogram is typically used to diagnose breast cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast tissue that can detect abnormalities.

Western-medicine treatment options for breast cancer depend on several factors, including the stage and type of cancer, as well as personal preferences and overall health. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Lumpectomy or mastectomy to remove the tumor
• Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation to kill cancer cells
• Hormone Therapy: Medications to block estrogen production

Breast cancer is a serious matter, affecting millions of people worldwide. Remember, early detection saves lives. Stay informed and empowered to take control of your health.