What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease caused by malignant tumor cells or cancer cells that attack breast tissue. Although breast cancer affects more women, it can also affect men.
Just like other cancers, cancer cells in breast cancer are spread and can multiply many times over. So, when cancer cells attack breast tissue, these cancer cells can spread to other organs adjacent to the breast such as the lungs or bones.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Symptoms of breast cancer depend on the level and type of tumor you have. There are two types of tumors, namely benign tumors and malignant tumors. If the tumor is a benign tumor, a round lump will appear under the skin of the breast that feels slippery and can move. Meanwhile, if the tumor you are suffering from is a malignant tumor or even has the form of cancer, then the symptoms can include:
- Nipples are pulled in
- Breast skin resembles an orange peel
- There is a dimple (like a dimple) in the breast
- Nipples bleeding
- There are sores / ulcers on the breast
- There is a lump or swelling under the armpit
What are the risk factors for breast cancer?
There are several factors that can increase the risk of breast cancer. There are low and high risk factors which of course will be different for everyone. Here are some risk factors for breast cancer:
- Age
As you get older, your risk of developing breast cancer also increases.
- Starting menstruation too young
Women who started menstruating at the age of under 12 tend to have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
- Late menopause
Women who have not experienced menopause until the age of 55 are at risk of developing breast cancer because the longer a woman menstruates, the greater her risk of developing breast cancer.
- Family history of breast cancer
The existence of a gene mutation in the family means that breast cancer can be passed from parents to children or other close family members.
- Radiation exposure
Someone who has undergone various radiotherapy will have a higher risk of breast cancer than those who have never undergone radiotherapy.
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, there are several foods that can be consumed. For teenagers and young women, increasing the consumption of foods high in soy is highly recommended to reduce the risk. Meanwhile, for adult women and those who have entered menopause, consuming foods with complex carbohydrates, such as cassava, cassava, wheat, and oatmeal can also be an option.
When is the right time to check with the doctor?
As a preventive measure, every girl who has started menstruating should be taught to do breast self-examination (BSE) once a month and do it 7-10 days after menstruation. BSE can be done while taking a shower and lying down or standing in front of a mirror. If there is the slightest lump, changes in breast size, discharge from the nipples, pain, swelling, itching, and sores, then immediately consult a doctor so that they can be treated.
Screening for the early phase of breast cancer can be done at a health center or hospital by undergoing a clinical breast examination, ultrasound, mammogram , or ultrasound . Do BSE early and get to know what your body is going through better. #LiveExcellently
Article reviewed by dr. Aseanne Femelia Ramadora, Sp.B (General Surgeon at EMC Tangerang Hospital).