Breast Cancer: What you need to know

• October 9, 2023
• By Fernando Amato

What is breast cancer? What are the risk factors? How is it diagnosed? How is it treated? Chemo, Radiation, or Surgery?

Breast Cancer: What you need to know

First and foremost, breast cancer is one of the most feared and discussed diseases among women worldwide. Therefore, understanding its risks, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for prevention and early detection. So, if you are looking for clear and relevant information, continue reading this article.

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1. Introduction to Breast Cancer

As a result, breast cancer arises when breast cells grow in an unregulated manner, forming a malignant tumor. It is the most common type of cancer among women, but men can also develop it, though less frequently.

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2. Risk Factors

a. Genetics: A family history of breast cancer can indicate a genetic predisposition. BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the best known.

b. Hormones: Prolonged exposure to estrogens, whether through early menarche, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase risks.

c. Age: Advanced age is also a factor.

d. Others: Previous radiotherapy to the chest area, certain benign breast diseases, and excessive alcohol consumption.

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3. Common Symptoms

• Lumps in the breast or armpit.
• Changes in breast shape or size.
• Nipple discharge.
• Reddened, scaling, or retracted breast skin.

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4. Prevention and Early Detection

a. Self-examination: Should be done monthly. It does not replace clinical examinations but helps familiarization with the breasts.

b. Mammography: Recommended annually for women over 40.

c. Clinical examination: Performed by a healthcare professional.

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5. Treatments

a. Surgery: There are various types, from tumor removal to total mastectomy.

b. Radiotherapy: Uses radiation to destroy or stop tumor cells from growing.

c. Chemotherapy: Uses medications to destroy cancer cells.

d. Hormone therapy: Inhibits the action of hormones that can stimulate tumor growth.

e. Breast reconstruction: After mastectomy, plastic surgery can reconstruct the breast. Thus, this procedure can be immediate or delayed and uses advanced techniques to restore the patient's self-esteem.

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6. The Importance of Plastic Surgery

Furthermore, plastic surgery plays a crucial role in emotional and physical recovery. After all, breast reconstruction is a right and can be performed through various techniques, such as the use of implants, muscle flaps, or the patient's own adipose tissue.

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7. Conclusion

In summary, breast cancer is a reality that many women face. Therefore, information is key to effective prevention and treatment. So, be proactive, get regular check-ups, and consult your doctor at the first sign of any change. Remember: plastic surgery is here to support you in your recovery, offering solutions for breast reconstruction and restoring the confidence every woman deserves.

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Keywords: breast cancer, prevention, plastic surgery, breast reconstruction, BRCA1, BRCA2, mammography, treatments, self-examination.

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Note: This is an informative summary about breast cancer. For detailed information and consultations, it is essential to seek a specialist and not rely solely on online content.

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