This archive report was first published on 7 October 2021.
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this disease and its impact on families worldwide.
According to the World Health Organisation, in 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths globally. This makes breast cancer the world's most prevalent cancer.
While many women are aware of breast cancer, they may not be fully informed about its causes, preventions, diagnosis, treatment, or cure. In fact, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.
So, what do you need to know about breast cancer?
Firstly, breast cancer is not transmittable. Unlike other cancers like HPV and cervical cancer, breast cancer is not an infectious disease. There are no viruses or bacteria linked to the development or cause of breast cancer.
Family history can play a role in breast cancer, but it's not the only factor. Women with a family history of breast cancer should get regular check-ups to reduce their risk. However, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.
It's also essential to start breast exams as early as 40. Breast cancer can develop in women with no identifiable risk factors as they age, usually above 40. Lifestyle factors like obesity, excessive drinking, tobacco use, and postmenopausal hormone therapy can also increase the risk of breast cancer.
Not all lumps you feel on your breast are cancerous. Benign masses like cysts, infections, and fibroadenomas can cause breast swelling and lumps. Breast cancer is also painless, and you may not find out about the disease until it reaches advanced stages.
Early detection of breast cancer increases the survival rate up to 90%. While making behavioral changes and choices can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 30%, breast cancer treatment is highly effective. Survival probabilities are 90% even higher if detected early. Women are advised to seek medical attention as soon as possible if they notice any unusual symptoms.
