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Breast Cancer

What is ?

  • Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form tumors.
  • It commonly begins in the milk ducts or lobules (milk-producing glands).
  • It is one of the most common cancers worldwide, mainly affecting women but can also occur in men.
  • Caused by DNA mutations in breast cells leading to uncontrolled growth.
  • Cancer cells multiply and form a tumor, which may invade nearby tissue or spread (metastasize).
  • Exact cause is unclear; results from a mix of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

  • Lump or thickened area in the breast
  • Change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
  • Skin changes (dimpling, redness, “orange peel” texture)
  • Nipple changes (inversion, discharge, crusting)

Types of Breast Cancer

  • Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) – Most common type
  • Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC)
  • Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) – Early/non-invasive
  • Inflammatory breast cancer (rare but aggressive)

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

  • Clinical breast exam
  • Mammography (screening test)
  • Ultrasound / MRI
  • Biopsy to confirm cancer 

Treatment for Breast Cancer

  • Surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy)
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Targeted therapy
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