Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2018, it was estimated that there would be 2 million new cases and 627,000 deaths from breast cancer. While great strides have been made in the early detection and treatment of this disease, it remains a significant public health concern.
When detected early, breast cancer is highly treatable. Different treatment options are available, and the best course of action will depend on the individual patient’s situation. The good news is that there are support groups and Hong Kong Cancer Fund so that you are not alone.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast tissue. Most breast cancers are invasive, meaning they have spread beyond the milk ducts or lobules where they began and into surrounding breast tissue.
There are two main types of breast cancer:
1) Ductal carcinoma
It is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It begins in the milk ducts and typically spreads to the surrounding breast tissue.
2) Lobular carcinoma
This type of breast cancer begins in the milk lobules and is less common than ductal carcinoma, accounting for about 10-15% of all cases.
How is breast cancer detected?
There are some different ways that breast cancer can be detected. The most common method is a mammogram, an X-ray of the breast tissue. Mammograms can detect small tumors that are not yet visible or palpable.
When it comes to Hong Kong breast cancer screening and treatment, there are some different options available. The best course of action will depend on the individual patient’s situation.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. Mammograms can detect small tumors that are not yet visible or palpable.
What are the treatment options for breast cancer?
The best course of action will depend on the individual patient’s situation.
1) Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of cancer, the size of the tumor, and the individual patient’s preferences.
2) Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It is typically used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
3) Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be used before or after surgery, and it may be used in combination with radiation therapy.
4) Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a type of treatment that works by blocking the hormones that fuel breast cancer growth. It is typically used with other therapies, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
5)Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that targets specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and progression. It is often combined with other therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
What are the side effects of breast cancer treatment?
The side effects of breast cancer treatment will depend on the type and intensity of the treatment. Common side effects of breast cancer treatment include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and skin changes.
How can you prevent breast cancer?
There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk.
1) Limit your alcohol intake
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing breast cancer. If you drink alcohol, it is important to limit your intake to no more than one drink per day.
2) Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to lower your risk.
3) Exercise regularly
Exercising regularly has some benefits, including reducing the risk of developing breast cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week.
4) Breastfeed
Breastfeeding has some benefits for both the mother and the child. It can also help to lower the risk of developing breast cancer.
5) Limit your exposure to estrogen
Estrogen is a hormone that can fuel the growth of breast cancer cells. There are several ways to limit your exposure to estrogens, such as avoiding hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills.
What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or mass in the breast tissue. Other common symptoms include changes in the appearance of the breast, such as dimpling or puckering, and discharge from the nipple.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation.
1) Breast lumps or masses
These lumps are usually painless, but they may be tender or sore. They can occur in both men and women, but they are more commonly found in women.
2) Changes in the appearance of the breast
These changes can include dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin. They can also have changes in the size or shape of the breast.
3) Nipple discharge
This discharge can be clear, bloody, or pus-like. It can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in women.
4) Breast pain
This pain may be sharp or dull and can occur in men and women. However, it is more commonly found in women.
5) Breast cancer symptoms in men
Breast cancer symptoms in men are often similar to those experienced by women. However, men are more likely to experience nipple discharge and breast pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation. Hong Kong breast cancer screening will help find breast cancer early when it is most treatable. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of breast cancer.
Bottom line
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the breast tissue. It is the most common type of cancer in women, and it can also occur in men. Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history, and alcohol consumption.
There are also many ways to lower your risk of developing breast cancer. If you experience any signs or symptoms of breast cancer, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation.
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