What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which cells within the breast begin to grow abnormally and multiply in an uncontrolled manner. These cells may form a lump or mass; however, in some cases, breast cancer can develop without a noticeable lump, particularly in its early stages. It can originate in different parts of the breast, most commonly in the milk ducts or lobules.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though it can occasionally occur in men as well. The condition ranges from slow-growing forms that remain localised within the breast to more aggressive types that may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
The encouraging news is that breast cancer is often highly treatable, particularly when identified early. Regular screening, personal awareness, and timely medical evaluation can make a profound difference to outcomes.
Types of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is not a single disease. It presents in several forms, and the treatment approach is guided by the specific type diagnosed:
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Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A very early form of breast cancer in which abnormal cells remain confined within the milk ducts.
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Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer, originating in the milk ducts and spreading into the surrounding breast tissue.
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Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): A cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and may be more challenging to detect on imaging.
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Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A faster-growing and less common form of breast cancer that typically presents with redness, warmth, and swelling of the breast.
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Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A more aggressive subtype that does not respond to hormone therapy or HER2-targeted treatments, requiring a different therapeutic approach.
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HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A type that tends to grow more quickly but may respond well to targeted therapies specifically designed for this subtype.
Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer does not always produce noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages; however, certain warning signs should never be overlooked:
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A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm area
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Thickening or swelling in any part of the breast
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A change in breast size or shape
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Dimpling or puckering of the skin
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Nipple discharge, particularly if bloody
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Nipple pulling inward or retraction
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Redness, scaling, or persistent irritation of the breast skin
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Persistent pain in the breast or nipple area that does not resolve
Not every lump is cancerous; however, every new or unusual breast change deserves prompt medical attention. Early evaluation is always the wisest and most reassuring course of action.
Why Does Breast Cancer Happen?
There is no single identifiable cause. Breast cancer develops when changes occur in the DNA of breast cells, causing them to grow at an abnormal rate and evade the body’s usual control mechanisms. A number of factors are known to increase the risk of developing breast cancer, including:
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Increasing age
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A personal or family history of breast or ovarian cance
If you have any concerns about your breast health, we encourage you to reach out to our female-led cancer team. Early conversation leads to early care.
