Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though it can also occur in men. It develops when cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Here’s a comprehensive overview of breast cancer:
Types of Breast Cancer
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where cells inside the ducts of the breast have turned into cancer cells but have not spread to surrounding breast tissue.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, where cancer cells have spread beyond the ducts into other parts of the breast tissue.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Cancer that begins in the lobules (milk-producing glands) and spreads to nearby tissues.
- Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A subtype that does not have estrogen or progesterone receptors and does not overexpress the HER2 protein. It is often more aggressive and difficult to treat.
- HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A type of breast cancer that tests positive for a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which promotes cancer cell growth.
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare and aggressive form that causes the breast to become red, swollen, and warm.
Risk Factors
- Genetic Factors: Mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the risk.
- Family History: A family history of breast cancer can increase the risk.
- Age: The risk increases with age.
- Hormonal Factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can contribute to higher risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity can increase the risk.
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