Breast cancer is a malignant tumor in the breast. It gets formed when breast tissue cells divide and grow without being subject to the control of natural systems in the body. These cells may invade surrounding tissue and can be transmitted to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system if not treated.
No one knows what the cause of breast cancer is and how to prevent it. What we do know is that early detection provides multiple treatment options and a greater chance of survival. Breast cancer is found in one-third of cancer cases among women, and is the most common cancer among women in the Arab world. Due to a lack of awareness among women of the importance of maintaining breast health and following self-examination and early detection steps, the number of cases detected in late stages increases. This is despite the possibility of achieving the highest cure rate of up to 98% if discovered early.
All women are at risk of getting breast cancer. However, some women are at a higher risk due to more than one risk factor. Every woman who has a risk factor that can be changed should make an effort to lower her risk of breast cancer. Some of the risk factors associated with breast cancer are related to your genetics, so they cannot be changed.
The risk factors are:
• Being Female
• Family History of breast cancer - It is higher if more than one relative was diagnosed with breast cancer, or if they were diagnosed at a young age.
•Aging
• Estrogen and Progesterone Hormones
- Use of menopausal hormone therapy
- Taking birth control pills for long periods of time.
• Menstrual Periods
- Starting the menstrual cycle early (before 12 years) and/or,
- Reaching menopause later (after 55 years)
• Not Breastfeeding
• Lifestyle
- Obesity
- Fat consumption
- Alcohol
Make sure to follow early detection steps in order to detect tumors in the early stages and thus have an excellent result during treatment.
• Being Female
Visit your doctor if you notice any of these breast changes:
