Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the breast. It is the most common cancer among women in the United States, second only to skin cancer. Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can invade surrounding tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body. While it predominantly affects women, men can also develop breast cancer, albeit at a much lower rate.
Breast Cancer Statistics
Breast cancer is a significant public health issue in the United States:
According to the latest statistics, the incidence of breast cancer in American women is expected toreach 130.5 cases per 100,000 people in 2025.
The five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is expected to remain around 90% in 2025, mainly due to advances in early detection and treatment.
For patients with localized breast cancer, the five-year survival rate is close to 100%, while for patients with metastatic breast cancer, the survival rate drops to about 25%.
Causes of Breast Cancer
The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:
- Genetic Factors: Mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Family History: A family history of breast cancer can elevate an individual's risk, although most women diagnosed do not have a family history.
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly after 40.
- Hormonal Factors: Prolonged exposure to estrogen, whether from early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity are associated with a higher risk of breast cancer.
How to know if you have breast cancer?
Self-examination
- Regular examination: It is recommended to perform a self-breast examination once a month, preferably within a few days after the end of menstruation.
- Observe for lumps: Pay attention to any new lumps or nodules in the breast, especially those with a different texture from the surrounding tissue.
- Skin changes: Check the skin of the breast for redness, swelling, dimpling, thickening, or orange peel-like changes.
- Nipple discharge: Pay attention to any abnormal nipple discharge, especially bloody or clear discharge.
Regular screening
- Mammography: It is recommended that women over 40 have a mammogram once a year.
- Ultrasound and MRI: For women with dense breast tissue, to better evaluate breast health.
Medical consultation
- Professional evaluation: If you find any abnormal symptoms, consult a doctor for professional evaluation and further examination.
What kind of treatment will I need?
There are many ways to treat breast cancer.
- Surgery and radiation are used to treat cancer in a specific part of the body (such as the breast). They do not affect the rest of the body.
- Chemotherapy (chemo), hormone treatment, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy drugs can reach cancer cells almost anywhere in the body.
Doctors often use more than one treatment for breast cancer. The treatment plan that’s best for you will depend on:
- The cancer's stage and grade (how much the cancer cells look like normal cells).
- If the cancer has specific proteins, like the HER2 protein or hormone receptors, or certain gene changes.
- The chance that a type of treatment will cure the cancer or help in some way.
- Your age.
- Any other health problems you have.
- Your feelings about the treatment and the side effects that come with it.
Research Advances in Breast Cancer
Research in breast cancer is continually evolving, leading to new treatment options and improved outcomes:
- Personalized Medicine: Advances in genetic testing allow for tailored treatment plans based on individual tumor characteristics.
- Immunotherapy: This emerging treatment harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, showing promise in certain breast cancer subtypes.
- Clinical Trials: Ongoing research through clinical trials is crucial for discovering new therapies and improving existing treatments.
Accessing Medical Support in the United States
In the U.S., there are various resources available for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer:
Renowned Cancer Centers and Hospitals
- Mayo Clinic: Provides comprehensive breast cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The oncology expert team at Mayo Clinic has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating breast cancer.
- UCLA Health: Offers a specialized breast cancer care program that provides personalized treatment plans and multidisciplinary team support. UCLA Health also provides advanced screening and diagnostic technologies.
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Focuses on breast cancer research and treatment, offering the latest treatment methods and opportunities for clinical trials.
Insurance Plans and Government Funding
- Health Insurance: Many breast cancer patients can receive partial or full reimbursement for treatment costs through health insurance. It is essential to understand one’s insurance coverage and specific terms.
- Government Funding Programs: Programs provided by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other local governments help low-income patients access necessary medical services.
Support Groups and Community Resources
- Patient Support Groups: Many hospitals and community organizations offer breast cancer patient support groups where individuals can share experiences, receive emotional support, and practical advice.
- Online Resources: Organizations such as the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation provide a wealth of information and resources to help patients understand their disease, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments.
What happens after treatment?
Once treatment is over, you'll be fine. You'll still see your cancer doctor for a few years after treatment ends. Be sure to go to all of those follow-up visits. You'll have exams, blood tests, and possibly other tests to see if the cancer has returned.
