IN THIS LESSON

You will learn what breast cancer is, the risk factors, preventative tips & common symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. It usually starts in the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) or lobules (glands that produce milk).

While the exact cause is unknown…Some risk factors of breast cancer are:

  • Family history

  • Hormonal changes

  • Age-at more risk after 40 years of age

  • Personal history of breast cancer: A cancer in one breast increases the chances of having cancer in the other breast

  • Lifestyle, including excess of alcohol consumption

  • Environmental factors, including exposure to radiations

  • Obesity and overweight

  • Menarche: having periods at younger age and menopause at an older age

  • Pregnancy: Becoming pregnant at an older age or never being pregnant

  • Hormone use, including long-term contraceptive use or postmenopausal hormone therapy

Prevention: Preventive measures involve healthy habits such as:

  • Eat healthy and nutritious food

  • Avoid alcohol

  • Practice gentle exercises upon doctors’ advice

  • Visit doctor for regular examination

  • Preventative surgery may be recommended in women with high risk

  • to reduce the risk of developing cancer, get the prescreening done

Common symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • A breast lump or thickened area of skin that feels different from the surrounding tissue

  • A nipple that looks flattened or turns inward

  • Changes in color of the breast skin

  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood

  • Dimpling or puckering of the breast skin

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