1. What is Breast Cancer?

• Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breast, commonly in the ducts or lobules.
• It occurs when breast cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can be seen on a mammogram or felt as a lump.

2. Types of Breast Cancer:

• Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): Non-invasive cancer where cells are confined to the ducts.
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer; it begins in the ducts and spreads to nearby tissue.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Starts in the lobules and spreads to nearby tissues.
• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Lacks estrogen, progesterone receptors, and HER2; more difficult to treat.
• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: A more aggressive type that overexpresses the HER2 protein.

3. Risk Factors:

• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50.
• Family History: Having close relatives with breast cancer increases risk.
• Genetics: Mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can increase the risk significantly.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Prolonged use of HRT after menopause may elevate risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, and alcohol consumption can also raise risk levels.

4. Signs & Symptoms:

• Lump in the breast or underarm.
• Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Dimpling or skin irritation.
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk).
• Pain in any area of the breast.

5. Screening & Detection:

• Mammogram: X-ray of the breast, often used as a screening tool for early detection.
• Breast Self-Exam: Regularly feeling the breast for lumps or changes, though it's not a substitute for professional screening.
• Ultrasound or MRI: Used in certain cases for more detailed imaging.
• Biopsy: Taking a tissue sample for lab testing to confirm a diagnosis.

6. Stages of Breast Cancer:

• Stage 0: Non-invasive, no spread beyond the original site (e.g., DCIS).
• Stage I-III: Invasive, increasing tumor size and spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues.
• Stage IV (Metastatic): Cancer has spread to other parts of the body (e.g., bones, liver, lungs).

7. Treatment Options:

• Surgery: Lumpectomy (removing the tumor) or mastectomy (removing the entire breast).
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, used before or after surgery.
• Hormonal Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive cancers, blocks hormones that fuel cancer growth.
• Targeted Therapy: Treatments aimed at specific characteristics of cancer cells (e.g., HER2-targeted therapy).
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to better attack cancer cells.

8. Prevention & Risk Reduction:

• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, and limiting alcohol can reduce risk.
• Regular Screenings: Early detection through mammograms can save lives.
• Preventive Surgery: In high-risk individuals (e.g., BRCA mutations), preventive mastectomy may be considered.
• Medications: Some may take anti-estrogen drugs like tamoxifen to reduce risk in high-risk women.

9. Statistics:

• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide.
• 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
• Survival rates have improved, with early detection and advances in treatment leading to higher 5-year survival rates.

10. Support & Resources:

• Support groups, counseling, and patient resources are available for those diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Many organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen, provide information and support services.