How to Tell if You Have Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with an estimated 2.3 million new cases diagnosed in 2020. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in order to detect it early and seek treatment promptly.
Early signs of breast cancer may include:
A lump or thickening in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue
Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody or clear
Nipple retraction (the nipple turns inward)
Pain in the breast or nipple
Swelling or redness of the breast
Skin changes, such as dimpling or thickening
As breast cancer progresses, other symptoms may develop, such as:
Bone pain
Weight loss
Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Shortness of breath
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Risk factors for breast cancer include:
Being female
Increasing age
Family history of breast cancer
Personal history of breast cancer
Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
Hormone replacement therapy
Obesity
Alcohol consumption
Smoking
If you experience any of the signs or symptoms of breast cancer, it is important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order additional tests, such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy, to confirm a diagnosis.
Mammograms are X-ray images of the breast that can help to detect breast cancer early, even before signs or symptoms develop. Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram every year. Women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to start having mammograms earlier.
Ultrasound is a painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the breast. Ultrasounds can be used to help diagnose breast cancer and to guide biopsies.
A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast and examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors, such as the patient's age and overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy.
Early detection and treatment of breast cancer can significantly improve the chances of survival. If you have any concerns about breast cancer, talk to your doctor today.
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