Breast cancer: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods

Did you know that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the world? But there is good news: early diagnosis of breast cancer gives a chance of recovery in more than 90% of cases. How not to miss critical symptoms of breast cancer and what to do for prevention, the MEDplus editorial team asked Oksana Garashchenko, a breast surgeon and oncologist.

Oksana Garashchenko

mammary surgeon, oncologist

• PhD, surgeon of the highest category, oncological surgeon, plastic surgeon, mammologist.
• Founder and chief doctor of the "OKSAL.med" clinic.

Why does breast cancer occur?

Breast cancer does not have one clear cause. Its development is caused by exogenous (external) and endogenous (internal) factors. We cannot influence internal factors, such as genetic predisposition, but external ones are quite possible.

One of the key factors is the action of hormones. A woman’s body is cyclical, and hormonal disorders affect the cells of the mammary glands. Normally, the immune system recognizes and destroys mutated cells, but in some cases, this process is disrupted. When the immune system does not respond to changes, the mutated cells can form malignant breast tumors.

Genetics also impact the risk of developing breast cancer. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can increase the likelihood of developing not only breast cancer but also ovarian cancer. That is why women should undergo genetic testing from the age of 18.

Other risk factors for the development of breast cancer:

• Mammary gland injuries, especially during periods of hormonal activity (pregnancy, lactation, premenstrual period).
• Hormonal disorders, in particular, due to uncontrolled use of contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.
• Diseases of the endocrine system (ovarian, thyroid pathology).
• Bad habits (smoking, excessive alcohol consumption).
• Unbalanced diet, obesity.

Who is in the risk group?

The risk group includes:

• Women who have close relatives with cancer.
• Those who take hormonal drugs without a doctor’s supervision.
• Women who undergo hormone replacement therapy in adulthood.
• Those who have hormonal changes because of pregnancy or lactation.

Stages of breast cancer

The disease is classified according to the TNM system (a generally accepted standard for classifying the extent of spread of malignant tumors in the human body):

• T (tumor)—tumor size: up to 2 cm (stage I), up to 5 cm (stage II), more than 5 cm (stage III), germination into neighboring tissues (stage IV).
• N (nodes)—damage to the lymph nodes of the breast: absence of metastases, damage to one or more lymph nodes.
• M (metastasis)—presence of distant metastases (liver, lungs, brain, bones).

Symptoms of breast cancer

Breast cancer can develop asymptomatically for a long time. The main alarm signals are:

• A lump in the breast.
• A nipple indentation or change in its shape.
• A discharge from the nipple (especially bloody).
• Redness or peeling of the skin on the breast.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the breast (armpit area).

Examination and prevention

Annual visit to a mammologist is mandatory for all women:

• 15-40 years old—breast ultrasound.
• After 40 years old—mammography.
• Regular genetic testing is recommended for women at risk.
• Self-examination is an important step for early diagnosis.

Treatment methods

Treatment depends on the stage and type of tumor. Main methods:

• Surgery (removal of the tumor or the entire gland).
• Chemotherapy (before or after surgery).
• Radiation therapy.
• Hormonal therapy.
• Targeted therapy.

It is possible to save the mammary gland with early diagnosis. If the tumor is large, chemotherapy may be prescribed before surgery to shrink it. In the case of complete removal of the gland, breast reconstruction (implants or own tissue) is possible.

How to prevent breast cancer?

• Conduct hormone therapy only as prescribed by a doctor.
• Have regular examinations by a mammologist.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle (avoid bad habits, eat a balanced diet, control weight).
• Exercise.

Early prevention and diagnosis of breast cancer are the main weapons in the fight against oncological diseases. And on the MEDplus Ukraine YouTube channel, you can find more videos about breast cancer. Be attentive to your health and take care of yourself!