About the Organ:
The breast is an organ composed of fatty tissue, glandular tissue, and ducts. It is in front of the pectoralis major muscle within the rib cage. In females, the breast undergoes significant development during puberty, and its primary function is the production of milk for infant feeding. The glandular tissue contains lobules that produce milk, which is transported through ducts to the nipple. Humans normally have two breasts. While males also have breast tissue, it does not typically develop during puberty and has no functional role in milk production.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when malignant cells develop within the ducts or tissues of the breast and proliferate to form a tumor. Breast cancer is among the most common types of cancer worldwide.
Statistics in Saudi Arabia:
According to Saudi Cancer Registry (2024), approximately 3,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed annually. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Global Statistics:
Global Cancer Observer (2024) indicates that approximately 2.3 million new breast cancer cases are diagnosed annually worldwide. Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers across the globe. Notably, the disease has a high cure rate when detected and treated at an early stage.
Risk Factors:
Cancer is a multifactorial disease. In many cases, no direct cause can be identified because the body's immune system can detect and eliminate abnormal cells before they develop into cancer. However, immune function may decline due to aging or prolonged exposure to cancer-causing factors, reducing the body's ability to prevent normal cells from becoming malignant.
Reducing exposure to known risk factors may help lessen the burden on the immune system. Risk factors are conditions or exposures that research has shown to increase the likelihood of developing cancer, particularly modifiable factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and excess body weight. Conversely, protective factors, such as regular physical activity and a healthy diet, have been associated with a lower risk of cancer in general.
It is important to note that approximately half of all women diagnosed with breast cancer have no clearly identifiable risk factors. The following factors are associated with a proportion of breast cancer cases:
- Increasing age.
- Previous diagnosis of breast cancer.
- Family history of breast cancer in a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter).
- Inherited genetic mutations.
- Early onset of menstruation and/or late menopause.
- First pregnancy after the age of 35.
- Use of hormonal medications to manage menopausal symptoms.
- Previous therapeutic radiation exposure to the chest or breast.
- Obesity.
- Tobacco and alcohol use.
Screening and Early Detection:
- Mammography is recommended as the primary screening tool for women aged 40 years and older who have no symptoms suggestive of breast cancer. Screening is intended to identify possible signs of breast cancer and does not constitute a definitive diagnosis. If abnormalities are detected, further investigations, including a biopsy, may be required to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
Possible Signs and Symptoms:
- A palpable breast lump.
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of the breast.
- Thickening of the skin of the breast or underarm area, resembling an orange peel texture.
- Inversion of the nipple.
- Bloody discharge from the nipple.
- Dimpling of the breast skin.
Treatment Options:
Depending on the stage and specific type of breast cancer, one or more of the following treatment modalities may be used:
- Surgical removal of the tumor or the entire breast (mastectomy).
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
- Hormone therapy.
- Targeted therapy.
- Immunotherapy.
Living with Breast Cancer
- Most women with breast cancer can enjoy life and fulfill their personal, social, and religious responsibilities when they understand their condition and adopt effective coping strategies.
- Discussing the disease and potential treatment side effects with a healthcare provider can facilitate adaptation and improve quality of life.
- If a mastectomy is required, patients can receive support and guidance in adjusting to physical changes.
- Ongoing medical care and regular follow-up during and after treatment help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and assist in managing treatment-related side effects.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity contribute to overall well-being.
- Positive psychological adaptation can improve coping, enhance mood, and help reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, sadness, stress, and frustration.
- Accepting temporary body changes, such as hair loss, can support emotional adjustment and recovery.
Disclaimer:
The information provided above is intended for general health education purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice from a treating physician and should not be used for any purpose other than public health education.
