Quick Answer: A condition in which breast cells proliferate uncontrollably and create tumors. It predominantly impacts women, often beginning in the milk ducts or glands, but early detection can lead to successful treatment.
INTRODUCTION
Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a lump; these cancer cells may start in either the milk ducts or the lobules, which produce milk, and, in certain instances, can spread into the surrounding breast tissue or be transported to the nearby lymph nodes and other organs. Although breast cancer mainly occurs in women, it can also affect men, even though male breast cancer is uncommon.
Breast cancer is a major health issue all over the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some 2.4 million women had breast cancer, and 694,000 women died as a result of it in 2024 on a global scale. The disease occurs in many countries and may develop at any age in women, with the risk rising as they get older.
WHAT IS BREAST CANCER?
Breast cancer results from abnormal changes in the cells of the breast tissue, causing them to grow and divide without control. These abnormal cells may form a tumor and could spread into the surrounding tissues. When the disease advances, the cancer cells become capable of spreading from one organ to another through the blood and the lymphatic system.
Breast cancer can be classified into different types according to where the tumors are located, the way they grow, and the biological characteristics of the cancer cells. Since it is necessary to know the differences between the various types of breast cancer, the appropriate treatment can be determined.
TYPES OF BREAST CANCER
| Type | Origin/Description | Key Features |
| Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) | Non-invasive; abnormal cells are limited to milk ducts. | Stage 0: does not spread beyond the milk duct |
| Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) | Abnormal cells located in the lobules (milk-producing glands) | Not a cancer; rather, a precancerous condition |
| Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) | Initiates in the duct; spreads to surrounding tissue | Most prevalent form (70-80% of cases); may metastasize |
| Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) | Initiates in lobules; spreads to adjacent tissues | Second most common form; difficult to see on mammograms |
| Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) | Obstructs lymph vessels in the skin | Rare but aggressive; skin appears inflamed and “orange peel.” |
| Triple-Negative Breast Cancer | Does not have estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors | Aggressive in nature; limited options for treatment; seen in younger women |
| HER2-Positive Breast Cancer | Overproduction of the HER2 protein | Rapidly growing; responds to HER2-targeted treatment |
| Hormone Receptor-Positive (ER+/PR+) | Has estrogen/progesterone receptors | Most common subtype; responds to hormone-based treatment |
| Paget’s Disease of the Breast | Cancer cells near the nipple area | Eczema-like appearance, itchy, discharge |
| Phyllodes Tumor | Occurs in the connective (stromal) tissue | Very rare; mostly non-malignant; may become cancerous |
| Angiosarcoma | Cancer in the blood/lymphatic vessels of the breast | Extremely rare; develops following radiotherapy |
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BREAST CANCER
It is not the case that every patient exhibits any symptoms of breast cancer in the early stages of the disease. Possible symptoms may be:
1. The presence of lumps or thickening in the breast or armpit
The appearance of new lumps or thickened areas in the breast or in the armpit may be a possible indication of breast cancer; however, breast lumps can also have non-cancerous causes, although it is necessary for all lumps to be examined by a doctor.
2. Alterations in the size or shape of the breast
If one breast is different in size, shape, or appearance from the other, this could be a sign of a breast problem and should be assessed.
3. Alterations in the skin of the breast
Breast skin changes involving any kind of thickening or scaling might be associated with breast cancer; however, they could also be due to some other cause, so a doctor’s assessment is necessary.
4. The skin may become dimpled, red, or puckered.
The skin might be dimpled, puckered, swollen, or red, and in some cases the skin changes could cause it to have the appearance of the outer layer of an orange, a condition known as peau d’orange.
5. Any change to the nipple or the area surrounding it
It might be that the nipple has turned in on itself, has changed in shape, or has become irritated or scaly.
6. Unusual Nipple Discharge
You might notice unexpected discharge from the nipple, especially if it happens without squeezing or if it contains blood. While many non-cancerous conditions can cause nipple discharge, unusual nipple discharge should be checked by a doctor.
A breast lump doesn’t have to be cancerous, and any abnormal change in the breast should be examined by a doctor.
RISK FACTORS OF BREAST CANCER
Several factors can make a person more susceptible to breast cancer, some of which are unchangeable and others of which are changeable.
Some of the major risk factors are as follows:
1.Aging
Age is a risk factor in the development of breast cancer since genetic mutations accumulate with aging and may lead to cancer. Most cases of breast cancer are found in older people, in particular those who have already undergone menopause.
2. A personal or family history of breast cancer
The chance of developing breast cancer again in the future is greater if one has had it before; moreover, having a family history, particularly when one of the close relatives—such as the mother, sister, or daughter—has the same disease, may also be a risk factor.
3. Inherited Genetic Mutations
Certain genetic mutations can make a person susceptible to breast cancer, and mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 affect the body’s ability to repair broken DNA strands.
4. Radiation Exposure
Being exposed to radiation, particularly in the chest region when one is young, raises the chance of getting breast cancer; this applies to patients who, when young, received radiation treatment in the chest as a result of other cancers.
5. Obesity Post-Menopause
Obesity, particularly following menopause, raises the chance of getting breast cancer; women who are in the postmenopausal phase tend to gain excess fat, and this fat then acts as a source of estrogens, thus increasing the risk of breast cancer.
6. Drinking Alcohol
If alcohol is consumed regularly, then the risk of getting breast cancer increases. There is a correlation between the risk of developing breast cancer and the amount of alcohol taken, and it also has an effect on the hormone levels in the body.
7. Smoking
There is a connection between smoking and the risk of breast cancer; breast cancer is likely to develop in people who are exposed to cigarette smoke over long periods.
8. Factors relating to reproduction and hormones
Certain factors connected with reproduction are linked to a risk of breast cancer since they result in the breasts being exposed to estrogen and progesterone. These factors can be such as the first menstrual period occurring at an early age, menopause taking place at an early age, the first pregnancy occurring late, or there being no full-term pregnancies.
9. Hormone Replacement during Menopause
Some of the hormone therapies employed to treat menopausal symptoms may raise the risk of breast cancer. Specifically, when combined hormone replacement therapy using both estrogen and progestogen is used for a long time, it involves a certain level of risk. The extent of the risk varies according to the type of therapy and how long it is used.
Note: The fact that a risk factor is present does not mean that a person will develop breast cancer; on the other hand, people who are not at risk can still get the disease. The World Health Organization states that almost 80% of all breast cancers occur in women who have no known risk factors other than their age and sex.
HOW DO DOCTORS FIND BREAST CANCER?
Once a breast abnormality has been detected, healthcare specialists can carry out several strategies in order to determine whether or not there is cancer.
Clinical Examination
In order to detect any lumps, swelling, or other abnormalities in the area being examined, healthcare professionals can carry out a clinical examination.
Imaging Tests
Imaging techniques (such as mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI) are used in women according to their age, their symptoms, their risk factors, and the results of the examination.
Biopsy
A biopsy is performed so that samples of breast tissue can be analyzed in a laboratory; it allows one to find out whether the abnormality in the breast is made up of cancer cells and also provides more information about the characteristics of the tumour.
Further tests in the laboratory will make it clear whether cancer cells have receptors, such as ER (estrogen receptors), PR (progesterone receptors), or HER2; this information will be helpful when choosing a treatment.
Staging of Breast Cancers
The way in which breast cancer is staged includes factors such as the size and spread of the tumour, the presence of the disease in the lymph nodes, and the fact that the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body.
It will then enable healthcare professionals to establish the stage of the cancer and administer the appropriate treatment. When breast cancer has spread, it is referred to as metastatic or stage IV breast cancer.
TREATMENT FOR BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer treatment depends on the kind and biological features of the cancer, cancer stage, and general health of an individual.
Treatment options include the following:
| Treatment | How It Works |
| Surgery | Removes the tumour while preserving most of the breast (lumpectomy) or removes the entire breast (mastectomy); lymph node assessment may also be performed in invasive breast cancer. |
| Radiation Therapy | Uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells that may remain after surgery, reducing the risk of recurrence in appropriate patients. |
| Chemotherapy | Uses medicines that destroy or inhibit the growth of cancer cells; may be given before surgery, after surgery, or for advanced disease depending on the individual situation. |
| Hormone Therapy | Used for breast cancers with hormone receptors; treatments such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors reduce the effect of hormones that stimulate growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. |
| Targeted Therapy | It works on certain characteristics of cancer cells, for example, HER2-positive breast cancers, that can be treated with HER2-targeted drugs such as trastuzumab. |
PREVENTION AND EARLY DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer awareness infographic featuring a woman wearing a pink ribbon, with information on causes and risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and screening, treatment options, prevention, and early detection.Breast cancer awareness infographic featuring a woman wearing a pink ribbon, with information on causes and risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and screening, treatment options, prevention, and early detection.
Keep a healthy weight:
A healthy weight, especially after menopause, might be able to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Engage in exercise:
Exercise is not only good for your health but also reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Do not drink too much alcohol:
Cutting down on alcohol consumption can help in lowering the risk of breast cancer.
Stay away from tobacco products:
The use of tobacco might lower the risk of breast cancer.
Maintain a healthy and balanced diet:
Consume a healthy and balanced diet that consists of plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other healthy food items.
Monitor the condition of your breast:
You should be vigilant regarding any new or unusual changes in your breasts, nipples, or the underarms.
Consult a physician for any unusual changes:
You should immediately consult your doctor about any persistent lump in your breasts, changes in your skin, changes in your nipples, and unusual nipple discharge.
Monitor the history of breast or ovarian cancer in your family:
It is essential that you keep track of any cases of breast or ovarian cancer in your family.
Seek advice regarding genetic counseling:
People with high-risk factors may opt for genetic counseling.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Cancer of the breast can be cured in many cases, especially when it is diagnosed at an early stage and the right treatment is applied in time. Increasing knowledge about breast changes, making more opportunities for diagnosis, and providing timely treatment are measures to decrease the consequences of breast cancer.
If you notice a consistent breast change, it is better to consult with a doctor than try to figure out the reason by yourself. The examination can help to recognize benign conditions and cancers that need treatment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is breast cancer and its symptoms?
It occurs when unhealthy cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a growth referred to as a tumor. Breast cancer usually forms in either the milk ducts or milk-producing glands.
A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area; a change in the appearance of the breast, including size and shape, that can be seen; dimpling, pitting, or an orange-peel-like appearance of breast skin; red, scaly, or flaky skin on the breast; nipple inversion or change in direction other than nipple discharge from breastfeeding
2. What age is common for breast cancer?
Breast cancer can occur at any age; however, it is uncommon to develop the disease below 40 years of age. The disease becomes more common as one ages, and breast cancers usually occur among females aged above 50, with an average age of 62.
3. How to spot breast cancer?
The following ways will help you detect any physical symptoms that may indicate breast cancer, such as the formation of a new lump, changes in the skin, or nipple changes. It is also advised that you do self-examinations.
4. What test confirms breast cancer?
The only definitive test that can confirm the presence of breast cancer in a person is called a breast biopsy. In this test, the doctor takes a tiny bit of tissue or fluid from the body and looks at it under a microscope.
5.What Is Stage 0 Breast Cancer?
Stage 0 breast cancer is a disease where the cancer cells are confined to the ducts of the breast. Abnormal cells in the lining of a milk duct of the breast. The cells have not yet breached the walls of the ducts to invade nearby breast tissue, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body. This is called “in situ,” or in the original place.
CONCLUSION
Cancer of the breast is a rather complicated disease that includes various kinds, biological characteristics, and treatment methods. Being aware of symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic techniques of diagnosing, and treatment of breast cancer can help to increase the level of awareness.
REFERENCES
- What Is Breast Cancer? [Internet]. Cancer.gov. 2025 Dec [cited 2026 Aug 19]. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/what-is-breast cancer
- Breast cancer – IARC [Internet]. www.iarc.who.int. [cited 2026 Aug 19]. Available from: https://www.iarc.who.int/cancer-type/breast-cancer/
- Britt KL, Cuzick J, Phillips KA. Key steps for effective breast cancer prevention. Nature Reviews Cancer [Internet]. 2020 Aug 1 [cited 2026 Aug 22];20(8):417–36. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41568-020-0266-x
- Michaels E, Worthington RO, Rusiecki J. Breast Cancer: Risk Assessment, Screening, and Primary Prevention. The Medical clinics of North America [Internet]. 2023 Mar [cited 2026 Aug 22]; 107(2):271–84. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36759097/
- How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed? [Internet]. Cancer.gov. 2025 [cited 2026 Aug 22]. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/diagnosis
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