Breast Cancer: The Facts

What is it?

As the name implies, Breast Cancer is a disease that begins in the tissue of the breast. Sections of the breast known as lobes are divided into smaller lobules which have bulbs capable of producing milk. Passageways called ducts connect these structures and eventually lead to the nipple. The spaces around the lobules and ducts are filled with fatty tissue as well as blood vessels and lymph vessels. The lymph vessels lead to small organs called lymph nodes, which are found under the arm, above the collarbone, and in the chest (as well as many other parts of the body). The most common type of Breast Cancer, ductal carcinoma, begins in the lining of the ducts. Breast Cancer beginning in this region makes up about 80% of all cases. Cancer that begins in a lobe region of the breast is known as lobular carcinoma and accounts for about 10-15% of all Breast Cancer cases. Cancer that first begins in these areas can spread and invade other areas of the breast tissue and underlying muscle. If the cancer cells move to the lymph nodes, they can also spread to other areas of the body by way of the lymphatic system.

Who gets it?

The risk of Breast Cancer increases gradually as a woman gets older. Although it can occur at all ages, this disease is uncommon in women under the age of 35. All women age 40 and older are at a higher risk for Breast Cancer with most Breast Cancers occurring in women over the age of 50. In fact the majority of women with Breast Cancer (8 out of 10 women) are over the age of 50.

There are certain risk factors besides age that increase the chances of developing Breast Cancer. Some of the most common factors are:

• Personal history of Breast Cancer (each breast can be affected independently)
  
• Family history of Breast Cancer among close relatives (mother, daughter, siblings, first cousins)
  
• Childbearing later in life (after the age of 30)
  
• Women who began menstruating early (before age 12) or reached menopause after the age of 50
  
• Excessive alcohol consumption
  
• Obesity and high fat diets
  

*Over 70% of Breast Cancer Cases occur in women with none of the above identifiable risk factors.

Breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and the second leading cause of women's cancer death. In the U.S. this year, there will be an estimated 184,200 new cases of invasive Breast Cancer among women in the U.S. and about 41,200 deaths from the disease. (American Cancer Society) Women in Rhode Island have a slightly higher chance of developing Breast Cancer than the national average. The average woman has a 1 in 8 chance of developing Breast Cancer at some point in their lifetime. (National Institute of Health) Only 5% of Breast Cancers occur in men. Many factors appear similar to women's cancers, but there are significant differences. For this reason the information listed in this handout does not necessarily apply to men. Consult a physician for further information.

How is it detected?

Breast Cancer is detected by either self-examination or by a variety of different clinical examinations.

Commonly accepted recommendations for early Breast Cancer detection:

• Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year.
  
  
• Between the ages of 20 and 39, women should have a clinical breast examination by a health professional every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.
  
  
• Women age 20 or older should perform a breast self-examination (BSE) every month. By doing the exam regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally feel and you can more readily detect any signs or symptoms.
  
  
• Women with increased risk factors (see above) should start regular mammography before the age of 40.
  

**To ensure the highest quality with the most accuracy for mammography, the federal government (FDA, CDC, NCI, etc.) asked the American College of Radiology to set standards for mammography centers. This includes specially trained radiologists, dedicated X-ray units, and specially trained technicians to perform the studies. There are 52 certified mammography centers in RI.

Is it curable?

Like other cancers, the chances of curing Breast Cancer are dependent on how early it is detected. There is over a 90% survival rate after early-stage diagnosis and treatment. Regular screenings dramatically increase your chances of survival by allowing for an early stage diagnosis. Breast Cancer can be cured, but the chances of survival decrease when it is diagnosed in a later stage. There are over 1.6 million Breast Cancer survivors living in the United States. Don't avoid having a lump checked by a doctor because of fear that it is already too late. More than 80% of lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and those that are malignant can be treated.

There are also ways to increase your chances of survival once treatment has begun. Taking care of your health is crucial to allow your body to recover from treatments. Healthy eating and regular exercise are important lifestyle habits that can aid in recovery. Also, mental and emotional health is beneficial on multiple levels. Support groups are one way to cope with the struggles of Breast Cancer.

It's easier to prevent cancer than to treat it....

Certain lifestyle and dietary habits can greatly reduce your risk of developing Breast Cancer (as well as other cancers). Some of these include:

• Regular exercise
  
• Low fat, high fiber diet
  
• Not smoking
  
• Moderate, if any, consumption of alcohol
  

If you found this information helpful, please consider making a donation to the Rhode Island Cancer Council so we may continue adding content to our website and providing valuable services to Rhode Island residents. Please click the Donate icon to the left to make a donation via credit card or your PayPal account.

See also: