Breast Cancer Symptoms in Women

Breast Cancer Symptoms in Women  / What is Breast Cancer Symptoms 

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor (a collection of cancer cells) arising from the cells of the breast. Although breast cancer predominantly occurs in women it can also affect men. This article deals with breast cancer in women.

Breast cancer facts

• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
• One in every eight women in the United States develops breast cancer.
• There are many types of breast cancer that differ in their capability of spreading (metastasizing) to other body tissues.
• The causes of breast cancer are not yet fully known although a number of risk factors have been identified.
• There are many different types of breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is diagnosed with physician and self-examination of the breasts, mammography, ultrasound testing, and biopsy.
• Treatment of breast cancer depends on the type of cancer and its stage (the extent of spread in the body).
• According to the American Cancer society:
• Over 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed each year.
• Nearly 40,000 women are expected to die of breast cancer in 2012.
• There are over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
• The recommendations regarding frequency and age when women should get screening mammography differ slightly between different organizations and task forces.
• Between 40 and 50 years of age, mammograms are recommended every 1 to 2 years (National Cancer Institute). After 50 years of age, yearly mammograms are recommended (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology).
• You should discuss with your health care professional the screening frequency that he or she recommends and what guidelines they follow.
• Patients with a family history or specific risk factors might have a different screening schedule including starting screening mammograms at an earlier age.

Breast Cancer Mammogram:

Importance of Mammograms

Early detection of breast cancer is important for the best outcome. Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that can detect tumors at a very early stage, before they would be felt or noticed otherwise. The American Cancer Societyrecommends that women at average risk have a mammogram every year starting at age 40. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Forcerecommends that women from 50 to 74 years of age have a screening mammogram every 2 years. It also suggests that women under age 50 consult with their doctor to determine the best screening schedule for their individual situation.

Breast Cancer Symptoms in Women, What is the treatment for breast cancer?, Heart attack symptoms / Treatments and drugs

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer may or may not cause symptoms. Some women may discover the problem themselves, while others may have the abnormality first detected on a screening exam. Breast pain is not a common symptom of breast cancer. Some of the possible signs and symptoms include:

• Non-painful lumps or massesK/li>
• Lumps or swelling under the armsK/li>
• Nipple skin changes or dischargeK/li>
• Changes in the feel, size, or shape of the breast tissue

• Previous
• 2/