Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant cells grow uncontrollably in the breast tissues, causing lumps to form around the area. While there’s no single cause of women getting breast cancer, age, genetics, and the environment play a role in the development of the condition.
The good news is that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), 90% of breast cancer patients survive their battle with this disease, especially when it is detected early. That’s why it’s crucial for you to understand it better and act quickly. Here are facts about breast cancer that you should know:
Symptoms Do Not Always Appear on the Breast
While the disease starts in a person’s breast, specifically in the ducts and lobules, the cancer cells can spread through the lymph and blood vessels. This causes swelling and tumor growth around the collarbone and armpit before the original tumor manifests.
If you feel abnormalities in your breast or under your arm, schedule an appointment with a healthcare specialist. The earlier you detect this disease, the better your chance of survival.
Males Can Also Have Breast Cancer
Since most breast cancer patients are female, many assume that only females get the disease. But there are rare cases where males get breast cancer too. This is common in older men, but the condition can manifest at any age. That’s why visiting a medical clinic annually is crucial to be sure.
If you have an extensive family history of breast cancer, look for symptoms like redness in the nipple area, lumps or bumps in the breast or armpit, or nipple discharge. Visit a doctor immediately if you notice or experience any of these.
Lifestyle Affects Cancer Risks
Your lifestyle choices can significantly impact your chances of having breast cancer. For example, if you’re drinking alcohol on a regular basis, studies show that you’re more likely to develop the condition. The same goes for smoking.
While those habits can increase the risk of breast cancer, there are things that you can do to reduce the risk of having this disease. Living a healthy lifestyle can help you prevent this disease from manifesting. Having a proper diet and exercising regularly are also recommended.
Talk to a Medical Professional
Aside from knowing facts about breast cancer, talking to a medical professional will help you understand and learn more about this disease. That’s why you should call Sioux Center Health. Our team can help you in diagnosing breast cancer with 3D mammography and more. Call us today!