Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer. Although breast cancer does occur in men, it is 100 times more likely in women. It is estimated that almost 180,000 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. That compares to about 2,000 men. Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that grows in one or both breasts. It usually develops in the ducts or lobules, the milk-producing areas of breast tissue. There are several different types of breast cancer that can be divided into two main categories: noninvasive and invasive cancers. Noninvasive cancers remain confined to the ducts or lobules and do not spread into surrounding tissue. Invasive cancers penetrate through normal breast tissue and invade surrounding tissues. They are more serious because they can spread into other parts of the body such as the bones, liver, lungs, and brain. There are several types of invasive breast cancers. The most common is invasive ductal carcinoma which accounts for about 80% of all breast cancers.

Breast cancers are described in stages based on the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread. Knowing the stage is the most important factor in choosing the treatment. The stage is determined using a physical exam, biopsy, and variety of tests. Stages are expressed between 0 and 4 using Roman numerals. In general, the lower the number the less the cancer has spread.

Early detection is important to the success of the treatment. Mammography testing remains the best way to detect breast cancer early. Regular mammography screening should begin at age 40. Annual physical examination should include a breast exam. Women should inspect their own breasts monthly watching for any changes in the breasts, especially any hard lumps or thickening, change in breast size or shape, dimpling or puckering of the skin, swelling, redness, or warmth that does not go away, pain in one spot that does not vary with the menstrual cycle, or discharge that starts suddenly and only occurs in one breast. Women should also have a breast cancer risk assessment done by their physician.

There are many risk factors for breast cancer. Some lifestyle choices that increase the risk of breast cancer include drinking alcohol at 2 or more drinks per day, being overweight, and a lack of physical activity. The American Cancer Society recommends 45 to 60 minutes of intentional physical activity at least 5 days of the week.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was created to increase awareness especially in women and to promote regular screening. There are over 2 million women living in the US who have been treated for breast cancer, making them the largest group of cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors are faced with the possibility of the cancer coming back and of an increased risk of developing a new breast cancer. Breast cancer survivors can reduce their risk of recurrence by seeking follow-up care, regular mammography and self-examination, continued drug treatment, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise.

Reference: http://www.nbcam.com/disease_breast_cancer.cfm.

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