Understanding Breast Cancer: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and Prevention( Pink October)

Understanding Breast Cancer: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and Prevention

How can I reduce my risk of breast cancer naturally?

Breast cancer remains a critical concern for women's health. Dr. Sammut, a researcher at the Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of breast cancer. These potential symptoms include:

1.   A Lump or Swelling: Be vigilant about any unusual lumps or swelling in the breast, upper chest, or armpit.

2.   Skin Changes: Pay attention to changes in the skin, such as puckering or dimpling.

3.   Changes in Color: Look for changes in the breast's color, such as redness or inflammation.

4.   Size and Shape Changes: Notice if there are any alterations in the size or shape of the breast.

5.   Nipple Changes: Be concerned if the nipple becomes pulled in or inverted.

6.   Rash or Crusting: Keep an eye out for a rash or crusting around the nipple.

7.   Nipple Discharge: Take note of any liquid discharge from either nipple.

Professor Winters also highlights a rare condition called Paget's disease, which can resemble eczema and is more common in women over 70. Paget's disease often indicates breast cancer in the tissue behind the nipple.

Who Is at Risk?

The two primary risk factors for breast cancer are gender and age. Women account for more than 99 percent of breast cancer cases, while breast cancer in men is rare. According to Dr. Sammut, "Around 80 percent of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50, and one in four cases are diagnosed in women aged 75 and over." Only 5 percent of breast cancers affect women under 40. Additionally, a family history of breast cancer and certain lifestyle factors can impact one's risk.

Dense breasts, characterized by a high proportion of breast duct tissue compared to fat, are also linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Professor Winter notes that nearly half of women have dense breasts, with 10 percent having extremely dense breasts, which can raise the risk between four and six fold. These conditions can only be detected through mammograms, and Professor Winter advocates for women to understand their density score.

Family History and Genetic Factors

If breast cancer runs in your family, your risk increases. Having a mother, sister, or daughter diagnosed with breast cancer approximately doubles the risk, especially if the relative was diagnosed under the age of 50. Mutated genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 are strongly associated with breast cancer. While 1 in 400 people carry a faulty BRCA gene, the risk varies depending on the specific gene mutation and family history. New research suggests that the risk may be lower for individuals who carry a gene variant but lack a family history of breast cancer. Other inherited genes are also linked to an increased risk.

How can you prevent breast cancer symptoms?

Preventive Measures

Dr. Sammut emphasizes that breast cancer results from a combination of lifestyle choices, genetics, and environmental factors. While it's challenging to predict who will develop breast cancer, certain lifestyle factors may affect risk:

1.   Limit Alcohol Intake: Consume no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread across three or more days.

2.   Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.

3.   Manage Weight: Maintain a healthy weight.

4. Maintain an Active Lifestyle: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine.

5.   Avoid Smoking: Do not smoke.

Moreover, studies show that regular exercise, even brisk walking, can reduce breast cancer risk, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can impact breast cancer risk. Professor Winters suggests that modern lower-dose HRT may have lower risks, and oestrogen-only HRT via patches and gels is safer for women without a uterus. However, for those with a uterus, progesterone is needed to protect against womb cancer. Taking transdermal HRT via patches or gels and micronized progesterone is recommended in such cases.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any breast cancer symptoms, it's crucial to consult your GP promptly. Early detection is vital for successful treatment. Doctors may make urgent referrals, known as Two Week Wait referrals, for swift examination at a breast clinic. However, an urgent referral does not necessarily mean cancer is suspected, as nine out of ten people referred do not have cancer.

Breast Cancer Screenings

Women over the age of 50 are entitled to breast screening every three years through the NHS Breast Screening Programme, with invitations up to the age of 71. Beyond 71, screening can be requested from local breast-screening centers. Professor Winter advises women not to discontinue screening.

To improve detection, Cancer Research UK is exploring the use of ultrasound or MRI alongside mammograms, especially for women with dense breasts.

Prognosis

The good news is that survival rates for breast cancer have doubled in the last 50 years. Survival rates vary by stage, with nearly 100 percent survival at stage 1, and significant improvements in stage 4 outcomes due to modern drugs. 

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