According to the majority of available resources breast cancer is defined as “cancer of the breast tissue”. This doesn’t give someone diagnosed with the disease much to go on. But after conducting additional research the answer becomes much more understandable. Cancer is a malignant growth. It is caused by abnormal and completely uncontrollable division of cells. Normal cells begin to be misshapen and start to grow at an extremely fast pace. What occurs is a mass or either a lump that continues to grow and can actually spread all over the body.
Not every breast lump is cancerous, in fact the majority of them are benign. They will reach a specific size and level off. They might be soft and filled with fluid- similar to cysts. These lumps could also be fibroadenomas that do not spread or grow. They could also be scar tissue or just hardened fat.
Having breast tissue that is actually cancerous is malignant and serious. Almost 90% of malignant breast cancer tumors are labeled as ductal carcinomas. Around 10% of the other cancer instances are lobular carcinomas. In either instance the lumps could appear as thickening in some spots on the breast or armpit. Lymph nodes are located under the armpits. They can sometimes play a role in the development of the disease.
It is highly recommended that individuals start to perform self breast exams at the age of 20 and that they begin to get regular mammograms at the age of 40.
Though one shouldn’t become alarmed at every possible change, an alteration of the size or shape of the breast after maturity is one sign to look for. Fluid may leak from the nipple that doesn’t resemble milk. In cases of cancer, it’s typically a type of pus, indicating infection.
An individual’s nipple or areola might also alter in shape and size.
Breast cancer develops in stages that mark the disease progression.
Stage 0 is when the condition first shows itself. Stage I is present when the tumor is less than 2cm thick and has yet to spread. By Stage II tumors are typically between 2-5cm thick and there could also be other areas that are effected. If the disease gets to Stage III it penetrates the chest wall. By that time treatment is extremely difficult and the survival rate is low.
Stage IV is the most serious cancer stage. At this venue the cancer has begun to spread forming tumors that are secondary in other areas. They are similar to the initial growth. Cancers of this type are often very fatal.
Because of the stages of cancer, and health consequences that are present at each level, looking for treatment and diagnosis early is important. A simple lumpectomy is capable of curing the condition completely. If it progresses to the point that chemotherapy or radiation is necessary the odds of recovery are lower and the cure is usually as bad as the disease.
Fortunately, enormous progress has been made over the past 40 years. The latest equipment allows for much better diagnosis. Treatments have evolved to make the cure less painful and more certain.
Though any stage is a concern, there is an over 95% five-year survival rate for those that are identified and treated by Stage I. Improve your odds by careful monitoring and seeking early diagnosis.