Quite simply, breast cancer is a disease caused by the abnormal growth of cells. The growths can be in the form of a tumor, lump, or lots of cancer cells.
Tests are needed to determine whether it is actually a lump or a cyst. Cysts are often non-cancerous (or benign) and can be filled with fluid which is often tested.
However, if the lump is found to be solid, then a sample will need to be taken from the lump and from the lymph nodes nearby. This is essential to make a diagnosis and determine whether the lump is cancerous.
If the lump has to be removed, then this is often followed up with chemotherapy treatment to destroy any remaining cancerous cells. Sometimes this treatment needs to be very aggressive, especially if the cancer has started to spread. This can occur when cells from the lump break away and start to spread. The cancer is said to be metastasized.
The immune system is vital in determining the spread of cancer as it can keep cancer cells in check and prevent them spreading. If the immune system is weakened, then the cancer cells can spread more easily.
In general, there are three main types the of breast cancer:
1. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma. This type of cancer can spread to the blood and lymph nodes as it penetrates the gland and ducts that produce milk. This is why it is “invasive.” This cancer type affects about 10% of women.
2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Again, this cancer can spread into the lymph nodes and blood as it penetrates through the duct and invades the fatty tissue. This cancer affects more women than Lobular Carcinoma (about 80%).
3. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ. This affects about 20% of women and is an early cancer type. This means that the cure rate is very high. What happens is that that the cancer is present in the milk gland but has not spread further.
The important factor to note is that not all lumps are cancerous. A doctor must be consulted so that a correct diagnosis can be made. Self-diagnosis is not an option.
There are loads of organizations that can offer support for those women with breast cancer, but the first step is to see a qualified doctor and ascertain the extent of the problem. Doing this as early as possible is vital to a speedy recovery should the worst diagnosis be made.
Washington Stoker writes on many different topics, especially health, self development and careers. His latest website http://www.radiocontrolledalarmclock.org focuses on the technological delights of the radio controlled alarm clock for those folks who need accurate timekeeping in their lives.
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