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12 Risks of Neglecting the Breast Cancer Symptoms

- Neglecting - May 1, 2018

According to research, your risk for breast cancer is caused by a combination of factors. Being a woman and getting older are the two most important risk factors, and most breast cancers are found in women over 50.

Some women will develop breast cancer despite having no other known risk factors. The presence of a risk factor does not guarantee that you will develop the disease, and not all risk factors have the same effect. Although most women have some risk factors, the majority of women do not develop breast cancer. If you have breast cancer risk factors, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk and breast cancer screening.

Risk Factors of Breast Cancer You Cannot Change

Here are some of the associated risk factors of breast cancer symptoms that can lead to horrendous and life-threatening results if not treated in time and with care;

  1. A woman who has had cancer in one breast, such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive breast cancer, is three to four times more likely to develop new breast cancer in either the other breast or another part of the same breast than is unrelated to the first. This is not the same as a recurrence of previous breast cancer.
  2. As you get older, your risk increases. Every year, approximately 77% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 50, and more than 40% are 65 and older. Breast cancer has a 1 in 68 chance of developing in women aged 40 to 50. From 50 to 60, it rises to 1 in 42. From 50 to 60, it rises to 1 in 42. It’s one in 28 from 60 to 70. It is also 1 in 26 women aged 70 and up.
  3. A woman is more likely to develop breast cancer if she has a mother, sister, or daughter (a “first-degree” relative). It’s even worse if this relative had breast cancer before age 50 and had cancer in both breasts. A first-degree relative with breast cancer roughly doubles your risk, and two first-degree relatives nearly triple your risk. Having a male blood relative with breast cancer raises the risk even more.
  4. Breast cancer is inherited in about 5% to 10% of cases, and BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation carriers are more likely to develop breast cancer. Women with an inherited BRCA1 gene mutation have a 72% chance of developing breast cancer by age 80. A woman with an inherited alteration in the BRCA2 gene has a 69% chance of developing breast cancer by that age.
  5. Your breasts are made up of a combination of fatty, fibrous, and glandular tissue. Breasts that are dense have more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fat. Breast cancer is 1.5 to 2 times more likely in women with dense breasts.
  6. Atypical hyperplasia (lobular or ductal) or lobular carcinoma in situ increases a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer by four to five times.
  7. Breast cancer in second or third-degree relatives, such as aunts, grandmothers, and cousins, is referred to as this.
  8. Women with a history of fibroadenomas with complex features, hyperplasia without atypia, sclerosing adenosis, or solitary papilloma are at a slightly higher risk.
  9. If you received radiation treatment to your chest before the age of 30, most likely to treat cancers such as lymphoma.
  10. Your risk is increased if a family member is diagnosed with ovarian cancer before the age of 50.
  11. White and African-American women are more likely to get it than Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Native American women in the United States.
  12. Between 1940 and 1971, many women were given this medication to prevent miscarriage. If you or your mother have it, your chances of developing breast cancer increase.

Risk Factors You Can Change

Here are some risk factors you can change with the right practice of everything in life to overcome this deadly and lethal disease.

  1. Being overweight after menopause raises your chances.
  2. Breast cancer has been linked to alcohol. Women who drink one alcoholic drink per day have a very small increase in risk compared to non-drinkers, and moderate drinkers (2 to 3 drinks per day) have about a 20% higher risk.
  3. Long-term estrogen and progesterone use raise the risk of developing breast cancer. This risk appears to disappear after five years of not using them.
  4. If you don’t exercise, your chances increase.
  5. Having your first child after age 30 or never having a full-term pregnancy increases your risk, and neither does breastfeeding.

The Final Words

You may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer if you have a strong family history of the disease or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. You may also be predisposed to ovarian cancer.

Consult your doctor about ways to lower your risks, such as medications that block or reduce estrogen levels in your body or surgery.

 

What is the Breast Cancer Standard of Care

- Care - April 21, 2018

What is the gold standard for treating breast cancer? How do the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)-approved breast cancer treatments guide physicians and their patients? What are the differences in breast cancer standard of care between urban and rural communities?

It’s important to note that the guidelines below are meant to be used as a guideline and should be tailored to each individual’s needs and risk factors. Healthcare providers should talk with their patients about screening and prevention options so that they can make informed decisions together.

Breast cancer is a serious condition that affects many people worldwide. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk and improve your chances of detecting it early. In this blog, we will address some of these pressing concerns.

Some Important Guidelines

The guidelines are evidence-based treatment recommendations for breast cancer that provide the most up-to-date information and best practises for diagnosing and managing cancer, including breast cancer.

  • breast cancer risk assessment and screening
  • treatment for breast cancer, and
  • Care for breast cancer survivors

1.Breast Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment

Breast cancer screening and risk assessment guidelines and recommendations are based on the most recent research and are intended to help healthcare providers decide on the best approach to breast cancer screening and prevention. The guidelines include the following key points:

  • Breast cancer screening for women of average risk should begin at the age of 40.
  • Women who have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier or more frequently.
  • For women at average risk, mammography is the preferred breast cancer screening method. However, other screening modalities are available, such as Tomosynthesis (3D mammograms), Contrast-Enhanced Mammograms, Ultrasound, and MRI.
  • For women at high risk of breast cancer, breast MRI may be used in addition to mammography.
  • All women should have a breast cancer risk assessment to determine their risk level.
  • Age, a family history of breast cancer, a personal history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations, and other factors all increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer.
  • Breast cancer risk reduction strategies, such as chemoprevention or prophylactic surgery, may benefit women at high risk.

2.Breast Cancer Treatment Guidelines

The “standard of care” for a breast cancer diagnosis varies according to the severity and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s specific circumstances. Breast cancer patients’ unique situations include their age, health history, level of activity, genetic predisposition to breast cancer, and type of breast cancer.

What are the treatment options for breast cancer? The NCCN breast cancer treatment guidelines provide the most up-to-date information on breast cancer treatments for both early and advanced stages.

Localized breast cancers, such as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or invasive breast cancers of any size with no evidence of lymph node spread, are examples of early-stage breast cancer. Breast-conserving surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy are all possible treatments. Breast cancers that have spread to other parts of the body or are resistant to standard treatments are considered advanced. Chemotherapy, targeted therapies (such as monoclonal antibodies), immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy are all possible treatments.

It is critical to remember that the best breast cancer treatment will be determined by the individual patient and their specific diagnosis. The NCCN breast cancer treatment guidelines explain the various types of breast cancer and the recommended treatments for each. However, it is important for patients to discuss all available treatment options with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision together.

Treatment for Stage 1 Breast Cancer

Here are some key points to consider when treating stage 1 breast cancer:

  • The first is through surgery. Surgical removal of the tumour is the standard treatment for stage 1 breast cancer. The type of surgery recommended may be determined by the tumor’s size and location, as well as the patient’s preferences and other factors. Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or mastectomy are options.
  • Radiation therapy is typically recommended following breast-conserving surgery to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Radiation therapy may not be required after mastectomy unless the tumor has certain high-risk characteristics.
  • Hormonal therapy may be recommended if the tumor is hormone receptor-positive in order to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Hormonal therapy can last for years and may include drugs like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.
  • Chemotherapy may be recommended for some women with stage 1 breast cancer, especially if the tumour is large or other high-risk features exist. Chemotherapy should be recommended after consulting with a healthcare provider and may be influenced by factors such as age, overall health, and other personal factors.

The Final Words

When researching breast cancer treatment options, healthcare professionals and patients alike should consult the breast cancer standard of care. Knowing what treatments are recommended based on current evidence can assist both doctors and patients in making informed and confident decisions about their treatment plans.

It is also critical to follow breast cancer screening and risk assessment guidelines in order to detect breast cancer early. Understanding breast cancer treatment guidelines can also help ensure that the best treatments are used for each stage of breast cancer. Finally, understanding breast cancer standard of care and associated guidelines can help patients receive the best possible care.

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What is Breast Cancer Ribbon?

- Breast Cancer Ribbon - December 29, 2016

The breast cancer ribbon is a widely recognized symbol of breast cancer awareness. The ribbon is typically pink in color and is often worn by those who have been affected by breast cancer, as well as by their friends and loved ones.

The purpose of the ribbon is to raise awareness about breast cancer, which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. As soon as we are near October every year, people all over the world wear pink ribbons in support of the courageous women battling cancer. Most of you are already aware that the pink ribbon represents breast cancer awareness. But how did it all begin? Is the significance of this well-known symbol still clear? To answer some of these questions, we decided to delve into the history of the iconic image, which is now recognized and featured worldwide.

Story Behind the Breast Cancer Ribbon

The ribbon was first used as a symbol of remembrance in 1979 when families tied yellow ribbons around trees while waiting for loved ones being held hostage in Iran. It was then seen red and pinned to actor Jeremy Irons, who wore it to the Tony Awards to raise awareness about AIDS. Almost every charitable cause soon adopted its own ribbon, and 1992 was dubbed “The Year of the Ribbon” by The New York Times.

A breast cancer warrior, Charlotte Haley started the breast cancer movement from her dining room in 1991, handmaking ribbons for the cause. But they weren’t pink. Charlotte made thousands of peach ribbons and attached them to cards that read:

Charlotte went on to hand out thousands of these cards at the local supermarket, leave stacks at doctors’ offices, and write to famous women ranging from former First Ladies to Dear Abby. Her daughter, sister, and grandmother had all been diagnosed with breast cancer. Her ribbons were more than just a message to read and then forget. She advocated for disease prevention, increased accountability for better funding for breast cancer research, and the promotion of self-exams and testing. Charlotte never accepted payment for her efforts, instead directing funds to breast cancer research.

Charlotte’s efforts piqued the interest of Self magazine editor-in-chief Alexandra Penney and Estée Lauder senior vice president Evelyn Lauder. Both saw the enormous value in branding this image in their campaigns. Charlotte approached Self about incorporating the peach ribbon into their second annual breast cancer awareness issue, and Charlotte immediately declined the proposal, claiming that it was too corporate and commercial. With their hearts set on a ribbon campaign, Self and Estee Lauder changed the color of the ribbon from peach to the pink we are now familiar with after legal consultation.

1.5 million pink ribbons with a breast self-exam card were distributed at Estee Lauder counters. Each person who received a ribbon had their name written on a petition delivered to the White House to request more funding for breast cancer research.

The True Meaning of the Pink Breast Cancer Ribbon

To those who have experienced or are currently battling breast cancer, it may appear that the pink ribbon’s message is not always being heard and understood. It can get lost in insincere marketing and engagement-seeking campaigns.

Other than skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). This heightens the importance of awareness.

Breast cancer awareness is an effort to reduce the stigma associated with the disease by educating people about the symptoms and treatment options. The pink ribbon’s global awareness has helped to increase early detection of breast cancer, make women more aware of the importance of regular breast self-examinations, and increase funds directed toward finding a cure.

What Can You Do to Stand By the True Meaning?

Here are a few pointers that show what we in our society can do to stand by the aboriginal meaning of the pink breast cancer ribbon.

  • Arm yourself with all of the information. Get to know your own body and breasts. Learn how to look for lumps, bumps, and other changes. Inform a friend or family member of everything you’ve discovered.
  • Make a one-time or monthly donation to assist a woman in need of screening and treatment.
  • Volunteer with a charity such as Breast Cancer Charities of America (BCCA) or Susan G. Komen. You are assisting women in preventing, combating, and surviving breast cancer! Visit BCCA or Susan G Komen to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
  • Breast Cancer Awareness Month should be promoted across all social media platforms.
  • Tell us about how breast cancer has affected you or a loved one. Sharing can bring you comfort while also giving others hope and strength.
  • Wear a pink ribbon with pride during October or all year. Shop pink to take it a step further! You can help support research and accessibility by shopping at participating retailers.

The Final Words

The first breast cancer awareness month was held in 1986, and ever since, the pink ribbon has become an international symbol 1991. The meaning of it is to provide more support to women combatting breast cancer.

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How Significant is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

- Awareness Month - June 1, 2016

Breast cancer can affect anyone, no matter who they are or where they live. It is critical to understand the warning signs of breast cancer, your risk of breast cancer, and what is normal for you in order to take action if you notice any changes in your breasts or underarm areas.

Breast cancer awareness month campaigns have helped drive down mortality rates from breast cancer for more than four decades, thanks to our focus on early detection and treatment advancements. That progress, however, may be jeopardised. Many people postponed their routine breast cancer screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic hampered treatment and research.

More progress is still required. Breast cancer research has resulted in new therapies and targeted treatments that have improved outcomes for many people. It is research that gives people with this disease, particularly those with MBC, hope. We must ensure that more treatment options are available for all breast cancer patients, especially when existing treatments fail.

The COVID-19 pandemic also brought to light disparities in breast cancer treatment for underserved communities across the country and disparities in treatment between Black and white women. Black women in the United States are approximately 40% more likely than white women to die from breast cancer.

Why is Breast Cancer Awareness so Critical?

Every October, you’re probably bombarded with breast cancer information. This is a good thing. Breast cancer awareness is critical because early detection, often through screening, can catch the disease when it is most treatable.

Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). A woman in the United States has a 12% chance of developing breast cancer at some point in her life, or one in every eight. A woman’s chances of dying from breast cancer are about 2.6%, or 1 in 38.

Patients are having better outcomes as a result of earlier diagnosis, cutting-edge treatment options, and less invasive surgery. In the United States today, there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors, including women who are still being treated and those who have completed treatment. A greater understanding of the disease has undoubtedly resulted in a greater number of women being screened for breast cancer. Patients have better outcomes as a result of earlier diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and less invasive surgery.

Some Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Every woman should be aware of how her breasts normally appear and feel in order to detect any changes that may occur. While knowing what to look for is important, a woman should still get regular mammograms and clinical breast exams because these tests can detect breast cancer before symptoms appear.

  • Breast or underarm lump (armpit)
  • Breast swelling or thickening in whole or in part
  • Breast skin dimpling or irritation
  • Breast pain that is localised and persistent
  • Nipple or breast skin redness, scaliness, or thickening
  • The discharge of the nipple (other than breast milk)
  • Any change in the breast’s size or shape

Risk Factors Highlighted by Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Being a woman and getting older are both risk factors for breast cancer (most found in women ages 55 and older). Personal/family history, race, breast density, and menstrual period history are all uncontrollable risk factors. Changes in certain breast cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) also increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

Certain risk factors are associated with a person’s way of life, such as the use of birth control pills, hormone therapy after menopause, having children, drinking alcohol, being overweight or obese, and not being physically active. The presence of one or more risk factors does not guarantee that a woman will develop breast cancer. Women must become acquainted with all of the risk factors. Those over whom they have control must make wise lifestyle choices. Having this said, here are a few proven ways to lower the risk factors of breast cancer.

  • Obtain and maintain a healthy weight. To avoid excessive weight gain, balance your food intake with physical activity.
  • Engage in some physical activity. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week (or a combination of these).
  • Limit or avoid alcohol consumption. The American Cancer Society recommends that women limit their alcohol consumption to one drink per day.
  • All women should have a risk assessment at the age of 30 to determine if screening before the age of 40 is necessary.
  • Women with an average risk of breast cancer should begin screening at the age of 40.
  • Women who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer may benefit from additional screening with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly if their cancer was discovered before the age of 50.

The Final Words

Every October, people all over the world come together to show their support for those affected by breast cancer. We’re here for you this Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beyond, no matter how you’re dealing with breast cancer.

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The Symptoms of Breast Cancer to Monitor and Consult Doctor

- Consult Doctor - August 13, 2014

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breasts. It is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States, after skin cancer. Breast cancer can affect both men and women, but it affects women far more frequently.

Significant support for breast cancer awareness and research funding has aided in the advancement of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Breast cancer survival rates have increased, and the number of deaths associated with the disease has been steadily decreasing, owing largely to factors such as earlier detection, a new personalized approach to treatment, and a better understanding of the disease.

The Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The symptoms of breast cancer may include:

  • A lump or thickening in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue
  • Breast size, shape, or appearance changes
  • Dimpling is a change in the skin over the breast.
  • A nipple that has recently been inverted
  • The pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin peeling, scaling, crusting, or flaking
  • Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, similar to orange skin

Make an appointment with your doctor right away if you notice a lump or other change in your breast, even if your most recent mammogram was normal.

Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer develops when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally, according to doctors. These cells divide faster than healthy cells and continue to clump together to form a lump or mass. Cells in your breast may spread (metastasize) to your lymph nodes or other parts of your body.

Breast cancer is most commonly caused by cells in the milk-producing ducts (invasive ductal carcinoma). Breast cancer can also start in the glandular tissue known as lobules (invasive lobular carcinoma) or in other cells or tissues within the breast.

Breast cancer risk factors have been identified by researchers as hormonal, lifestyle, and environmental factors. However, it is unclear why some people with no risk factors develop cancer while others with risk factors never do. Breast cancer is most likely caused by a complex interaction of your genetic makeup and your environment.

What is Hereditary Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer develops when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally, according to doctors. These cells divide faster than healthy cells and continue to clump together to form a lump or mass. Cells in your breast may spread (metastasize) to your lymph nodes or other parts of your body.

Breast cancer is most commonly caused by cells in the milk-producing ducts (invasive ductal carcinoma). Breast cancer can also start in the glandular tissue known as lobules (invasive lobular carcinoma) or in other cells or tissues within the breast.

Breast cancer risk factors have been identified by researchers as hormonal, lifestyle, and environmental factors. However, it is unclear why some people with no risk factors develop cancer while others with risk factors never do. Breast cancer is most likely caused by a complex interaction of your genetic makeup and your environment.

What is Hereditary Breast Cancer?

Doctors believe that 5 to 10% of breast cancers are caused by gene mutations passed down through generations of a family.

A number of inherited mutated genes have been identified that can increase the risk of breast cancer. The most well-known are breast cancer genes 1 (BRCA1) and 2 (BRCA2), both of which increase the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or other cancers, your doctor may advise you to have a blood test to identify specific mutations in BRCA or other genes that are being passed down through your family.

Consider asking your doctor to refer you to a genetic counselor who can review your family’s medical history. A genetic counselor can also help you with shared decision-making by discussing the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing.

Some Associated Risk Factors to Undermine

A potential breast cancer factor is anything that increases your chances of developing breast cancer. However, having one or more breast cancer risk considerations does not guarantee that you will develop breast cancer. Several more women who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors other than the fact that they are female. The following factors have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer:

  • Breast cancer strikes women far more frequently than men.
  • As you get older, your chances of getting breast cancer rise. If you’ve had a breast biopsy and it revealed lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or atypical hyperplasia of the breast, you’re at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
  • If you’ve had breast cancer in one breast, you’re more likely to develop cancer in the other.
  • If your mother, sister, or daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer, especially when they were young, your risk of developing breast cancer is increased. Nonetheless, the vast majority of breast cancer patients have no family history of the disease.
  • Certain breast cancer-related gene mutations can be passed down from parents to children. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the two most well-known gene mutations. These genes can significantly increase your risk of breast cancer and other cancers, but they do not guarantee cancer.
  • If you received chest radiation treatments as a child or young adult, your risk of developing breast cancer is increased.
  • Obesity raises your chances of developing breast cancer.
  • Starting your period before the age of 12 increases your risk of developing breast cancer.
  • Menopause begins later in life. If you start menopause later in life, you are more likely to develop breast cancer.
  • Women who have their first child after the age of 30 are more likely to develop breast cancer.
  • Never having been pregnant. Women who have never been pregnant are more likely to develop breast cancer than those who have had one or more pregnancies.
  • Women who use hormone therapy medications that combine estrogen and progesterone to treat menopausal symptoms are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. When women stop taking these medications, their risk of developing breast cancer decreases.
  • Drinking alcohol raises the risk of developing breast cancer.

The Final Words

Ignoring the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can be dangerous and life-threatening. It is, therefore, advised to everyone not to ignore and neglect the small or developing signs or symptoms of breast cancer and take timely measures to ensure their well-being at all times.

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5 Things to Know About Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

- IBC - March 15, 2014

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare, rapidly growing cancer that must be treated right away. It mimics the symptoms of a breast infection. Redness, swelling, pain, enlargement of one breast, and breast skin that resembles an orange peel are all symptoms of IBC. Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation are all options for treatment.

What is Inflammatory Breast Cancer?

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and rapidly spreading type of cancer. Unlike most breast cancers, IBC rarely causes lumps in the breast tissue. Instead, it manifests as a rash with an orange peel-like skin texture on the affected breast. IBC causes pain, redness, swelling, and dimpling on the affected breast.

IBC occurs when cancer cells obstruct lymph vessels, which are small, hollow tubes that allow lymph fluid to drain from the breast. The blockage causes inflammation, which causes symptoms that make IBC appear to be an infection.

IBC spreads quickly and necessitates immediate treatment. IBC is typically treated with chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

Signs and Symptoms of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer can be difficult to detect because it does not usually cause a lump like other types of breast cancer. Instead, the initial symptoms are associated with inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain) in your affected breast. Because of these symptoms, it is easy to mistake IBC for a less serious condition, such as an infection. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) symptoms develop quickly over three to six weeks and may include the following:

  • Discoloration (red, pink, or purple), a bruise, or a rash covering one-third of your breast.
  • Dimpling, pitting, or thickening of your breast skin in the shape of an orange peel.
  • One breast has pain, swelling, itchiness, firmness, or tenderness.
  • One breast may experience warmth, burning, heaviness, or enlargement.
  • Nipple inverted or retracted (a nipple that points inward).
  • Lymph nodes near your collarbone or under your arm that are swollen.

Causes of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

The majority of inflammatory breast cancer is classified as invasive ductal carcinoma. “Ductal” carcinoma is cancer that develops from the cells that line your milk ducts. An “invasive” ductal carcinoma is cancer that has spread beyond your milk ducts and has infiltrated healthy tissue. Researchers are still determining what causes these cells to become cancerous (cancerous).

When cancer cells block lymph vessels, inflammatory breast cancer develops. Lymph vessels are hollow lymphatic tubes that allow lymph fluid to drain from your breast. Your breast becomes red, swollen, and inflamed as a result of the blockage. Cancer cells spread outward (metastasize) from your lymph vessels in the majority of cases of IBC. Cancer that has spread to other organs is more difficult to treat.

Diagnosis of Inflammatory Breast Disease

Inflammatory breast cancer is uncommon, and its symptoms are similar to those of a more common condition — breast infections (mastitis). To rule out an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and see if they relieve your symptoms. If they suspect IBC, they will perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis as well as additional tests to determine whether cancer has spread beyond your breast. A physical examination, imaging studies, and a biopsy are all used to make a diagnosis.

  • Lumps are uncommon in inflammatory breast cancer, making diagnosis difficult. In some cases, your doctor may rule out conditions that cause similar changes in the appearance of your breasts, such as mastitis.
  • A mammogram creates a picture of the inside of your breast using low-energy X-rays. Mammograms allow your doctor to look for signs of breast cancer, such as lumps, calcifications, or skin thickening. Using sound waves, breast ultrasounds create images of the inside of your breasts, nearby tissue, and lymph nodes. Ultrasounds allow your doctor to see if cancer has spread from your breast to nearby tissue. Unfortunately, IBC and breast infections frequently resemble each other.
  • Only a biopsy can confirm an IBC diagnosis. During a biopsy, your doctor takes a tissue sample from your breast, and a pathologist examines the sample in a lab to determine whether it contains cancer. Biopsy results also assist your provider in determining whether specific targeted therapies or drugs may be effective cancer treatments for you.

How to Cure or Treat Inflammatory Breast Cancer?

Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation are used to treat inflammatory breast cancer.

1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells in the treatment of breast cancer. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously (through a vein) or as a pill. Chemotherapy causes cancer cells to shrink, making them easier to remove during surgery. Following surgery, you may be given chemotherapy to destroy any cancer cells that remain.

2. Surgery

Your entire affected breast (mastectomy) and nearby lymph nodes are removed during surgery. Conservative treatments that remove tissue while leaving your breast intact are ineffective for IBC, and the cancer is spreading far too quickly.

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy employs a machine to direct energy toward cancer, thereby killing cancer cells. Following surgery, you may be given radiation to kill any remaining cancer cells that the surgery missed.

4. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy aids your immune system in identifying and combating cancer cells. Some types of immunotherapy, such as chemotherapy, have been shown in studies to improve the efficacy of other IBC treatments. The investigation is ongoing.

5. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on specific flaws in cancer cells. It attacks cancer’s weaknesses in order to eradicate them. For example, a protein called HER2 in cancer cells promotes the growth and spread of IBC. Targeted therapy destroys this protein, making cancer cells less likely to thrive.

The Final Words

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and rapidly spreading type of cancer. If you notice changes in your breasts, especially if one breast is changing but not the other, make an appointment with your healthcare provider right away. The changes could indicate a less serious condition, such as an infection. Nonetheless, IBC is rapidly spreading. If your symptoms are indicative of inflammatory breast cancer, you should begin treatment as soon as possible. Don’t put off seeking treatment that could improve your prognosis.

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Breast Cancer Awareness – 10 Tips to Reduce the Risk

- Cancer Awareness - March 2, 2014

However, there is a lot of good news about breast cancer. Treatments are improving, and we now know more than ever about how to prevent the disease.

If you’re worried about getting breast cancer, you might wonder if there are any steps you can take to help prevent it. Some risk factors, such as family history, are unavoidable, and there are, however, lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk. These are the most important pointers to consider for breast cancer awareness.  

1.Maintain a Healthy Weight

Overweight patients are more likely to develop breast cancer, especially after menopause. Researchers believe this is due to the fact that fat tissue can produce estrogen (and estrogen exposure is linked to breast cancer).

2.  Eliminate Alcohol

Any amount of alcohol raises your risk of developing breast cancer. According to research, higher alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Avoiding alcohol is preferable, but limit yourself to three to five servings per week if you must consume it.

3.  Eat Healthily

A plant-based diet high in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans is recommended. Include colourful or strongly flavoured vegetables and fruits in your diet. Red and processed meats, sugary drinks and sodas, and processed foods high in fat and starch should all be avoided.

4. Breastfeeding for New Mothers

Breastfeeding for at least one year has been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, according to research. However, the decision to breastfeed your child is personal, and the fact that breastfeeding may reduce the risk of breast cancer is just one of many factors to consider.

5.     Manage Stress Levels

Although there is no proven link between stress and an increased risk of breast cancer, reducing stress levels is likely to benefit overall health. Among the beneficial practices are:

  • Meditation and deep breathing
  • Stretching exercises should be done on a regular basis.
  • Taking a break from the news and social media
  • Seeking help from a psychologist, social worker, or professional counsellor if you are experiencing chronic stress.
6.  Limit Postmenupausal Hormone Therapy (PHT)

Combination hormone therapy may raise the risk of developing breast cancer. Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone therapy with your doctor. Nonhormonal therapies and medications may be able to help you manage your symptoms. If you decide that the benefits of short-term hormone therapy outweigh the risks, use the lowest dose that works for you and continue to have your doctor monitor the duration of your hormone therapy.

7.   Consider Mammograms

Mammogram screening for breast cancer saves lives. It does not prevent cancer, but it can help detect it early when it is more treatable.

Beginning at the age of 40, most women should have yearly mammograms. Women who are at a higher risk for breast cancer may need to begin screening earlier. It’s best to consult a doctor about your risk and whether you’d benefit from earlier screening by the age of 30.

8. Find Out More about Family Details

Women with a strong family history of cancer should take extra precautions. That is why it is critical for women to understand their family history. If you have a mother or sister who has had breast or ovarian cancer, you are at a higher risk. This risk is increased if your relative was diagnosed at a young age. Having multiple family members with breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer increases your risk. A doctor or genetic counsellor can help you understand your disease’s family history.

9. Stop Taking Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills have both advantages and disadvantages. The younger the woman, the lower the risks. Women who use birth control pills have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. However, once the pill is stopped, this risk disappears quickly. While on the pill, a woman’s risk of stroke and heart attack increases, especially if she smokes. Long-term use, on the other hand, can have significant benefits, such as lowering the risk of ovarian, colon, and uterine cancers. Birth control pills also prevent unwanted pregnancy, so they have a lot going for them. If you’re concerned about breast cancer, one way to reduce your risk is to avoid using birth control pills.

10. Avoid Raloxifene and Tamoxifen

Although it is not commonly regarded as a “healthy behaviour,” taking the drugs tamoxifen and raloxifene can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer in women who are at high risk of the disease.

These powerful drugs, which have been approved by the FDA for breast cancer prevention, can have side effects and are not suitable for everyone. If you believe you are at high risk, consult your doctor to see if these drugs are appropriate for you.

The Final Words

Maintain vigilance in the detection of breast cancer. Consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a new lump or skin changes. In addition, based on your personal history, consult your doctor about when to begin mammograms and other screenings.

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How Beginning Breast Cancer Rash Look Like?

- Cancer Rash Look - September 13, 2013

A skin rash on your breast could be an indication of inflammatory breast cancer, an aggressive form of breast cancer (IBC). Breasts are frequently swollen and red, and symptoms progress quickly over weeks or months. IBC can cause rapid growth of the breasts, and they may feel heavy, burning, or tender. Because there isn’t always a lump, IBC can be difficult to diagnose.

A breast rash can also be caused by infections, allergies, or shingles. Any unexplained rashes on the breast should be examined by a healthcare professional in order to properly diagnose and treat the cause. Learn about beginning breast cancer rash and other infections, including causes, risk factors, and when to see your doctor.

Breast Cancer Rash

Rashes are not a common cancer symptom. A breast cancer rash is an indication of inflammatory breast cancer or Paget’s disease of the breast, both of which are uncommon and difficult to diagnose due to the lack of a lump. Here are a few diseases that can be a start and raise the alarms with the beginning of breast cancer rash.

Signs and Symptoms of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

1.  Inflammatory Breast Cancer

IBC is a rare, aggressive cancer that typically affects women who have dense breast tissue. The following symptoms may occur:

  • A rash that appears swollen and red
  • Skin that is pink, reddish-purple, or bruised
  • The skin has ridges (like the skin of an orange)
  • Breast rash and/or rapid increase in breast size
  • Heavy, burning, or tender breasts
2.  Paget’s Disease

This rare condition affects the nipple and is linked to breast cancer. Symptoms that may be confused with dermatitis or eczema include:

  • Skin that is red, flaky, crusty, thickened, or scaly around the nipple and areola
  • A nipple that has been flattened
  • The discharge is yellowish or bloody.
  • Pain, inflammation, itching, or burning

Some More Causes of Breast Rash

A breast rash caused by a condition other than breast cancer can occur.

1. Infection

Intertrigo, an inflammatory rash that occurs along skin folds such as the breast, can cause infections. Inflammation can be caused by moisture, friction, and a lack of ventilation. Friction can cause skin breakdown, making it vulnerable to fungal or bacterial infections. Symptoms could include:

  • Skin that is red and scaly
  • Itching, stinging, or burning feelings
2.  Mastitis

Mastitis, or breast inflammation, is frequently caused by an infection. When a milk duct becomes blocked, it commonly affects breastfeeding women. It can affect both men and women who are not breastfeeding. Among the symptoms are:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Warmth
  • Redness
3. Allergies

An allergic reaction is usually triggered by pollen, food, or medicine, but other factors can also trigger it. Exposure to an allergen can cause hives in the chest and breasts. Raised, red bumps or welts, as well as itchy skin, are symptoms.

4.  Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a virus-borne illness caused by the chickenpox virus. The virus remains dormant in the body and has the potential to reactivate later in life. Shingles cause a rash that can spread to the chest and breasts. Shingles symptoms include:

  • Skin that is painful, itchy, or tingly
  • Blisters on the rash
  • Fever or chills caused by pain
  • Headache
  • Stomach ache

Risk Factors of Beginning Breast Cancer Rash

Many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, may increase the risk of developing cancer. Potential risk factors include:

  • Predisposition due to genetics (family history of breast or ovarian cancer)
  • Changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, as well as other genetic mutations
  • Age
  • Breast cancer or non-cancerous breast disease in the past
  • Breast tissue that is dense (breasts that have more connective tissue than fatty tissue)
  • Reproductive history with increased estrogen exposure, such as early menstruation, first pregnancy after 30, not breastfeeding, not carrying a full-term pregnancy, or later menopause
  • Radiation therapy to the chest or breast in the past
  • Lack of physical activity Excess weight or obesity after menopause
  • Treatment of menopausal symptoms with hormone therapy
  • consuming alcoholic beverages

The Final Words

A breast rash may be an indication of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), a rare and aggressive cancer that frequently goes undetected. Another rare cancer-related condition that can cause a rash is Paget’s breast disease. Breast rash can be caused by conditions other than breast cancer, such as infection, allergic reaction, or shingles.

If you have a breast rash, consult your doctor so that diagnostic tests can be performed to determine the cause and treat the underlying condition.

A breast rash that appears unexpectedly can be frightening. A rash does not always indicate breast cancer, but it is critical to see a doctor who can determine the cause. Self-examination and noticing breast changes can help in the early detection of breast cancer.

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What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

- Negative Breast Cancer - December 21, 2012

Triple Negative Breast Cancer is rare and affects approximately one in every 100,000 women annually. It accounts for approximately 15% of all invasive breast cancers. One of three types of breast cancer is triple-negative breast cancer. It is referred to as triple negative because it lacks three markers associated with other types of breast cancer and is important for prognosis and treatment. It is one of the more difficult breast cancers to treat.

On the other hand, researchers are progressing steadily toward more effective treatments. Overall, 77% of women with triple-negative breast cancer survive five years after being diagnosed.

Subtypes of Breast Cancers

Your breast cancer subtype is one factor that healthcare providers consider when deciding how to treat your cancer. This is due to the fact that not all cancer treatments are effective for all breast cancer subtypes.

Providers examine your cancer cells to determine subtypes. They specifically look for molecules on the surfaces of your cells. These molecules, known as receptors, are designed so that only specific substances can cling to them and begin influencing what your cells do.

Breast cancer cells have estrogen and progesterone receptors. Understanding whether your breast cancer cells have receptors and whether they contain hormones assists providers in determining how your breast cancer may spread and which treatment may be most effective. Her-2 neu is another type of breast cancer that has a different receptor. This receptor makes cells more active, but it also allows doctors to treat cancer with drugs that target her-2 proteins. If your breast cancer lacks her-2 neu and hormone receptors, it is referred to as triple negative.

Symptoms and Signs of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

TNBC symptoms are similar to those of other types of breast cancer. Furthermore, many breast cancer symptoms are similar to those of other, less serious conditions. That is, having certain symptoms does not imply that you have breast cancer. Among the possible breast cancer symptoms are:

  • A new mass or lump.
  • Breast swelling that affects all or part of the breast.
  • Skin with dimples.
  • Pain in the breasts or nipples.
  • Nipple retraction occurs when the nipple turns inward.
  • Dry, flaking, thickened, or red nipple or breast skin.
  • Breast milk-free nipple discharge.
  • Lymph nodes that are swollen. This symptom happens when breast cancer spreads to the lymph nodes under your arm or near your collarbone.

Diagnosing Triple Negative Breast Cancer

A mammogram may be the first step in evaluating a suspicious mass or lump in your breast. Healthcare providers may perform a biopsy to remove breast tissue based on what they learn. The cells in the tissues are then examined to determine the cancer subtype. Identifying the cancer subtype is part of the staging process, which determines how your cancer will be treated.

Before treatment, providers may use the following tests to determine the size of your tumor and whether it has spread, or after treatment to monitor response to treatment:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Ultrasound
  • Computed tomography (CAT) scan
  • Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Some Common Treatments for Triple Negative Breast Cancer

TNBC treatments are making significant progress thanks to the efforts of healthcare providers and researchers. Recent clinical trials are putting new drug combinations and approach to existing treatments to the test. Existing treatments include:

  • Chemotherapy: Your provider may combine chemotherapy and surgery, with chemotherapy used before surgery to shrink your tumor or after surgery to kill cancer cells throughout your body.
  • Surgery could include a lumpectomy to remove a single lump or a mastectomy to remove an entire breast. A sentinel node biopsy or axillary node surgery is then performed to look for signs that your breast cancer has spread to your lymph nodes.
  • Radiation therapy: Following surgery, radiation therapy reduces the likelihood that your cancer will return or recur.
  • Immunotherapy stimulates your immune system to produce more cancer-fighting cells or to assist healthy cells in identifying and attacking cancer cells. To shrink the tumor before surgery, immunotherapy can be combined with chemotherapy. You may also receive immunotherapy and post-surgery radiation therapy for about a year after your surgery.

How to Prevent Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Researchers do not know all of the risk factors for triple-negative breast cancer. The BRAC1 gene mutation has been identified as one possible cause of triple negative breast cancer. Unfortunately, you cannot prevent BRAC1 because this gene mutation is inherited from your parents. However, there are steps that can be taken to help prevent breast cancer, including TNBC:

  • Keep a healthy weight.
  • Regular exercise is essential.
  • Understand your family’s medical history.
  • Keep an eye on your breast health. According to studies, 95% of women with breast cancer who were treated before it spread were alive four years later.
  • If you have a family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about genetic testing for the BRCA gene. If you have the BRCA gene, you can take precautions to avoid breast cancer.

The Final Words

One of the more difficult breast cancers to treat is triple negative breast cancer. You may be discouraged after reading about triple negative breast cancer. However, there are several highly effective treatments for triple negative breast cancer, such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation.

Every day, researchers learn something new about this rare cancer. Your power comes from their knowledge. If you’re concerned that you’re not getting the whole picture of your cancer, ask your doctor to walk you through your diagnosis and treatment options.

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5 Things to Know About Metastatic Breast Cancer

- Metastatic - December 16, 2012

When cancer cells spread from the breast to other parts of the body, this is referred to as metastatic breast cancer. It is considered advanced (stage 4) breast cancer. The symptoms of metastatic breast cancer vary depending on where the cells have invaded the body. Medication to slow the growth and improve symptoms is part of the treatment for metastatic breast cancer.

Understanding Metastatic Breast

The most advanced stage of breast cancer is metastatic breast cancer. Breast cancer develops when abnormal breast cells begin to divide uncontrollably. A tumour is a collection or mass of these abnormal cells. Cancer cells that have spread to a new area of the body are referred to as metastasis. Cells in metastatic breast cancer may spread to the following:

  • Bones
  • Brain
  • Liver
  • Lungs

Cancer is named by healthcare providers based on its primary cause. That is, breast cancer that spreads to other parts of the body is still considered breast cancer, and breast cancer cells are still cancer cells. Even if the cancer cells are in other areas, your care team will use breast cancer therapies.

Signs and Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Metastatic breast cancer symptoms may differ from those of early-stage breast cancer, but not always. There are times when there are no symptoms at all. Patients should always consult their doctor if they notice any new signs or symptoms, but here are some of the most common signs of metastatic breast cancer:

  • Tumor cells spreading to the bones or spinal cord can cause bone pain or fractures.
  • When cancer has spread to the brain, you may experience headaches or dizziness.
  • Lung cancer causes shortness of breath or chest pain.
  • Swelling of the stomach or jaundice

The symptoms of breast cancer metastasis may also differ depending on where the cancer has spread in the body. As an example:

  • Symptoms of breast or chest wall cancer may include pain, nipple discharge, or a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
  • Pain, fractures, or decreased alertness due to high calcium levels may occur if the cancer has spread to the bones.
  • Symptoms of lung cancer include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, and fatigue.
  • Symptoms of liver cancer include nausea, fatigue, swelling of the feet and hands, and yellowing of the skin.
  • Pain, memory loss, headache, blurred or double vision, difficulty with and/or movement, or seizures may occur if cancer has spread to the central nervous system, which includes the brain or spinal cord.

Diagnosis of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Metastatic breast cancer can occur at several stages:

  • De novo metastatic breast cancer affects about 6% of women and 9% of men when they are first diagnosed with breast cancer.
  • Distant recurrence: Metastatic breast cancer is most commonly diagnosed after the initial breast cancer treatment. A recurrence is when cancer returns and spreads to a different part of the body, which can happen years after the initial diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Cancer cells have the ability to invade nearby lymph nodes or blood vessels. Cancer cells then spread throughout the body via lymphatic or blood vessels. These blood vessels transport fluids and blood throughout the body. Cancer cells in new locations may form small tumors.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment

Systemic therapies, which use drugs rather than surgery or radiation, are frequently used to treat metastatic breast cancer. Treatments for metastases are intended to shrink tumors and slow their growth, as well as to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Treatment may change if one therapy no longer works or the side effects become too uncomfortable. Rather than receiving only one treatment, most patients receive a combination of treatments to aid in the fight against cancer.

 

1.  Hormone Therapy

This therapy works by preventing the production of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. Some types of breast cancer have receptors, or proteins, that bind to these hormones and aid in their growth. Blocking the hormones may help slow the progression of cancer. This treatment is effective against hormone receptor-positive cancers. Hot flashes and vaginal dryness are possible side effects of hormone therapy.

2. Chemotherapy

With so many chemotherapy drugs available, selecting the best one is dependent on the type of breast cancer. (It is frequently used in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer.)

Chemotherapy is usually administered intravenously in cycles over several weeks. Some patients are more tolerant than others. It is possible to experience nausea, diarrhea, a loss of appetite, fatigue, hair loss, and mouth sores.

3.  Targeted Drugs

Targeted therapies are newer treatments that work to inhibit specific types of proteins or gene mutations that contribute to breast cancer. The terms “monoclonal antibodies,” “antibody-drug conjugates,” and “inhibitors” may be mentioned by an oncologist. These drugs, which are sometimes combined with chemotherapy or hormone therapy, can stop or slow the process that fuels cancer. Side effects are possible and differ from one drug to the next.

4.     Immunotherapies

Immunotherapy drugs are intended to stimulate the immune system and cause cancer cells to be destroyed in certain types of breast cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are what they’re called. Fatigue, coughing, nausea, rash, loss of appetite, and autoimmune reactions are all possible side effects.

The Final Words

It can be difficult to live with metastatic breast cancer, and physical and emotional support can be provided by your care team. For example, including a nutritious plan in your meal, exercising regularly, controlling your stress and anxiety issues, and getting the adequate emotional support that aids in mental health betterment are some things that will help you subdue the negative effects of metastatic breast cancer.

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