Breast cancer

Breast cancer is forms in the cells of the breasts. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it's far more common in women. Breast cancer survival rates have increased, and the number of deaths associated with this disease is steadily declining, largely due to factors such as earlier detection, a new personalized approach to treatment and a better understanding of the disease.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:

  • A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue.
  • Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast.
  • Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling.
  • A newly inverted nipple.
  • Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin.
  • Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange.

Risk factors

Factors that are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer include:

  • Increasing age. Your risk of breast cancer increases as you age.
  • A personal history of breast conditions. 
  • A personal history of breast cancer. 
  • A family history of breast cancer. 
  • Inherited genes that increase cancer risk. 
  • Radiation exposure. 
  • Obesity. 
  • Beginning your period at a younger age. 
  • Beginning menopause at an older age. 
  • Having your first child at an older age. 
  • Having never been pregnant. 
  • Postmenopausal hormone therapy. 
  • Drinking alcohol. 

 Making changes in your daily life may help reduce your risk of breast cancer. Try to:

  • Ask your doctor about breast cancer screening. 
  • Become familiar with your breasts through breast self-exam for breast awareness. 
  • Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. 
  • Exercise most days of the week. 
  • Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy. 
  • Maintain a healthy weight. 
  • Choose a healthy diet. 
  • Breast cancer risk reduction for women with a high risk.

If your doctor has assessed your family history and determined that you have other factors, such as a precancerous breast condition, that increase your risk of breast cancer, you may discuss options to reduce your risk, such as:

  • Preventive medications (chemoprevention)
  • Preventive surgery

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470