Breast cancer is a form of cancer that originates in the breast cells. This is one of the most common cancers seen in North American women, following skin cancer (or melanoma).

Many people believe that breast cancer affects only women. However, breast cancer is found in rare instances in men as well. Due to the advancement of screening technology being able to detect early stage breast cancers, the survival rate has really increased. Detecting breast cancer at an early stage will is important for successful treatment.

Breast cancer develops due to the abnormal growth of breast cells. As abnormal cells grow, often in the milk ducts of the breast, they start to divide faster than the other healthy cells and accumulate in masses (or tumors). If left undetected, these lumps may spread from the breast to the lymph nodes and nearby tissues as well.

The main symptoms of breast cancer may include lumps in the breast, but also examine breasts for thick or changing textures and breast changes (i.e., redness, size or density of the breast) or changes in nipples (i.e., crusting, flaking, oozing, or inverted). If you experience any of these breast changes, bring it to the attention of your doctor immediately so the following diagnostic screenings may be conducted:

1. Mammogram

One of the most commonly used technique for breast cancer screening is the standard mammogram. This is basically a screening machine used to examine breast tissue for abnormal cells. However, if breast tissue is dense, doctors may recommend a digital mammography, or a new 3D mammography. Often a combination all 3 screening methods will be used to reduce the risk of false estimation.

2. Genetic testing

BRCA genes tests can also help in breast cancer screening. This standard blood test can is conducted and sent to a lab for analysis, and can identify a patient’s risk and help determine how their breast cancer is treated.

3. Breast cancer treatments

There are a number of breast cancer treatment options available to reduce tumor size and remove breast cancer tumors completely. Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and surgery to remove breast cancer cells from breast tissue, affected lymph nodes, or the complete removal of one or both breasts.

At risk individuals may help reduce the risks of breast cancer, by:

• Staying active and avoiding sedentary lifestyle.
• Talk to your doctor about breast cancer screening options if you’re at risk.
• Lose weight if you are overweight and/or maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.
• Stop smoking and avoid exposure to harmful second hand smoke.

Consume a healthy diet.