In an ordinary family gathering, Aunt Li suddenly mentioned that a friend of hers had died of breast cancer, and the news shocked everyone present like a bombshell. Breast cancer, once a distant word in TV public service announcements, suddenly tore through the veil of tranquility of everyday life. In fact, breast cancer has become a major threat to women's health around the world. But the power of knowledge and prevention is enormous, and knowing about breast cancer means you're already ahead of the curve.
Overview of Breast Cancer: What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer, which is defined by the scientific community as a malignant tumor that occurs in breast tissue. Not only is this disease one of the most common types of cancer in women, but its incidence is on the rise worldwide. According to global cancer research data, breast cancer is the second most lethal type of cancer among women. However, the treatment effect of breast cancer is closely related to the time of detection, and early detection almost guarantees treatment success, while late detection often has a poor prognosis.
1. Influencing factors
The formation of breast cancer is the result of multiple factors. Genetic predisposition undoubtedly plays an important role, especially in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, which are much more likely to develop the disease than in the general population. In addition, lifestyle choices, such as weight management and exercise frequency, directly affect hormone levels and the metabolic state of the body, all of which may indirectly affect the risk of breast cancer.
2. Symptoms and diagnosis
Breast cancer may show little to no symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular checkups are crucial. As the condition progresses, symptoms may begin to appear, including lumps in the breast tissue, abnormal discharge from the nipple (especially bloody discharge), inverted nipples, or local depressions in the skin of the breast. Breast cancer screening and early diagnosis can be effectively carried out through mammography (except lactation), ultrasonography, and, if necessary, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
3. Prevention strategies
Breast cancer prevention can be done from multiple angles. First of all, making reasonable lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, and limiting alcohol consumption are all basic preventive measures. Secondly, for genetic high-risk groups, genetic testing and regular professional examinations should be carried out. In addition, avoiding hormone replacement therapy and long-term birth control pills is also thought to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
4. Treatment and management
Once breast cancer is diagnosed, treatment will be tailored to the specific condition of the disease. Treatments may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Testing of biomarkers and receptor status will guide physicians in selecting the most appropriate treatment strategy to improve the targeting and efficiency of treatment.
Through this series of introductions and analyses, we can not only understand the severity of breast cancer more comprehensively, but more importantly, everyone can greatly reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer by making lifestyle changes, getting regular check-ups, and understanding their genetic risk. Let's use the weapons of knowledge and prevention to face this seemingly terrifying but actually controllable enemy.
The main cause of breast cancer
Genetic influence: Familial genetics that cannot be ignored
The formation of breast cancer is not caused by a single factor, in which genetic factors occupy an important position. Studies have shown that women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer than the general population. Mutations in these two genes are also associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. In addition to the BRCA gene, mutations in other genes such as ATM and CHEK2 have also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Lifestyle choices: obesity and lack of exercise
The impact of lifestyle on breast cancer is a growing concern. Obesity, especially postmenopausal, increases the risk of breast cancer by affecting hormone levels in the body. Too much fatty tissue in the body can lead to increased levels of estrogen, which has been shown to be directly linked to the development of breast cancer. In addition, physical inactivity is also considered a risk factor for breast cancer, and regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Environment & Chemicals: External Factors That Can't Be Ignored
Long-term exposure to certain chemicals and environmental pollution may also increase the risk of breast cancer. Studies have shown that exposure to medications containing high doses of estrogen, such as certain birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially with long-term use, may increase the risk of developing breast cancer. In addition, exposure to radiation is a risk factor, especially in women who receive chest X-rays during puberty.
Physiological factors: age, reproductive history, and menopausal status
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, especially in women over the age of 50. Fertility history also affects breast cancer risk, with women who are nulliparous or having children late at a higher risk than those who give birth early. In addition, both early menarche and late menopause can prolong the exposure of female reproductive hormones and increase the risk of disease.
How Women Can Stay Away from Breast Cancer: Four Preventative Measures
Regular screening: early detection, early treatment
For breast cancer, early detection often means a higher success rate of treatment. An annual mammogram is recommended for women over the age of 35, especially those with genetic risk. With regular screening, breast cancer can be diagnosed and treated at an early stage.
Dietary modification: low in fat and high in fiber
Dietary changes play an important role in preventing breast cancer. A low-fat, high-fiber diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is recommended. Studies have shown that foods rich in dietary fiber can help reduce estrogen levels in the body, which can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Lifestyle optimization: increase physical activity
Regular physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also directly reduces the risk of breast cancer. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer. This effect is achieved in part by adjusting hormone levels and improving immune system function.
Manage hormonal intake: Use hormonal medications sparingly
In postmenopausal women, the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) should be carefully considered, especially for long-term use. When necessary, priority should be given to the lowest dose and the shortest duration of use. Similarly, women who have been using birth control pills for a long time should also have regular breast health check-ups to detect possible abnormalities in a timely manner.
By doing this, women can not only significantly reduce their risk of breast cancer, but also improve their quality of life and well-being. Prevention is always better than cure, and by implementing these simple yet effective strategies, every woman can protect her health.