Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the breast tissue, typically beginning as a growth of cells. It is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States, after skin cancer. However, breast cancer can affect anyone, regardless of gender, as everyone is born with some breast tissue.

Fortunately, breast cancer survival rates have been increasing, and the number of deaths from breast cancer has been steadily decreasing. This is largely due to widespread support for breast cancer awareness and funding for research. Advances in breast cancer screening have enabled healthcare professionals to diagnose breast cancer earlier, making it more likely that the cancer can be cured.

There are various types of breast cancer, including angiosarcoma, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), inflammatory breast cancer, invasive lobular carcinoma, lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), male breast cancer, Paget’s disease of the breast, and recurrent breast cancer.

Symptoms of breast cancer may include a breast lump or thickened area of skin, nipple changes, changes in breast skin color, changes in breast size, shape, or appearance, and peeling, scaling, crusting, or flaking of the skin on the breast.

If you notice any changes in your breasts, it is essential to see a doctor promptly. Don’t wait for your next mammogram to check if the change is breast cancer. Report any changes in your breasts, even if a recent mammogram showed no breast cancer.

The exact cause of most breast cancers is unknown, but researchers have identified factors that increase the risk of breast cancer. These include hormones, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. However, it’s not clear why some people with no risk factors develop cancer, while others with risk factors never do.

Breast cancer likely results from a complex interaction between genetic makeup and environmental factors. Healthcare professionals know that breast cancer starts when something changes the DNA inside cells in the breast tissue, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and potentially forming a tumor.

Risk factors for breast cancer include family history, personal history of breast cancer, personal history of breast conditions, beginning menstruation at a younger age, beginning menopause at an older age, being female, dense breast tissue, drinking alcohol, having your first child at an older age, having never been pregnant, increasing age, inherited DNA changes, menopausal hormone therapy, obesity, and radiation exposure.

To lower your risk of breast cancer, consider making changes in your daily life, such as:

– Asking about breast cancer screening and discussing benefits and risks with your doctor

– Becoming familiar with your breasts through breast self-exam for breast awareness

– Drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all

– Exercising most days of the week

– Limiting menopausal hormone therapy

– Maintaining a healthy weight

If you have a high risk of breast cancer, you may also consider other options to lower your risk, such as preventive medicines or surgery. Discuss your risk with your healthcare team to determine the best course of action.