Not only women get breast cancer. Men also has a risk of developing breast cancer. When cells in the breast starts to grow uncontrollably, a tumor is formed as a lump. Later on the cells can spread to different parts of the body. Normally it can be detected on an X-ray, but sometimes the signs of breast cancer aren’t identifies by lumps. There are other signs of breast cancer, and n the following section, we will provide you with some important insights in breast cancer.
Signs of breast cancer
Signs of breast cancer include itching around the breast, discharge from the nipple, itching, and small bumps similar to bug bites. The most common sign however is lumps, but be aware about the fact that 80 percent of these lumps are completely benign. If you experience any of these issues, and it remain for more than a couple of weeks, you should always consult a doctor.
Birth control increase the risk of breast cancer
Researchers found that women who use hormonal birth control methods like for instance birth control pills, might have increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, as soon as you stop using that type of birth control, the risk of breast cancer is normalized.
Keep the alcohol consumption low
Compared to women, who never drinks alcohol, women who has a regular alcohol consumption has an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The more alcohol you drink the greater the risk of developing breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends to keep the alcohol consumption low and not drink more than one alcoholic drink a day.
Examine the breast for abnormalities
Your risk of developing breast cancer is increased if you have had your first periode before the age of 12 or if you experience late menopause after age 55. By that said, women above 40 should regularly perform breast exams on themselves and book time for proper mammograms to examine if the breasts have any abnormalities.
Treat post-menopause discomfort with hormones
Many women experience discomfort post-menopause and in this case hormone therapy with progesterone and estrogen can remedy these symptoms. Just like birth control pills this type of hormone therapy can increase the risk of developing breast cancer, but as soon the hormone therapy stops, the risk reaches to its normal state. Always talk to your GP before deciding whether to use hormonal therapy post-menopause.
Dense breast tissue increase the risk
Dense breast tissue is more difficult to examine for any abnormalities or lumps. Moreover, the risk of developing breast cancer is increased in this type of breast tissue. Sometimes there are ways treat this type of tissue, so when getting a mammography consult the doctor to know whether you have any dense breast tissue.
Have you been exposed to radiation?
If you’ve been exposed to radiation at a young age, your risk of developing breast cancer is increased. The same applies if you earlier have had radiation treatments in the chest area due to cancer. Make sure your doctor is informed if you have been exposed to radiation.
There are more than one type of breast cancer
Breast cancer can develop in any part of the breast. For some patients it has started in the milk ducts, for others the cancer has developed from the milk glands. Cancers like Sarcomas and Lymphomas are also located the breast area. However, these are not considered breast cancer.