Breast cancer is not just one single disease. There are several types of breast cancer. It can be found at an early or advanced stage of development. It can grow very slowly or very rapidly or somewhere in between.

Breast cancer is, thankfully, no longer a guaranteed death sentence. Early detection is KEY! You must perform breast exams monthly, as well as follow up with doctor exams and mammograms.

Cancer begins when cells change and increase in number, often to form a lump. If the cancer is not removed or controlled, the abnormal cells can spread and may eventually cause death. Most breast lumps are benign, which means they are non-cancerous and are usually harmless.

Breast cancer generally arises in the cells that line the specialized breast tissue. Most arise from the milk ducts - ductal cancers - while a small number arise in the milk sacs - lobular cancers. Breast cancer can spread to the lymph glands, the bones and to other parts of the body. It can be sensitive or insensitive to some or all of the treatments available.

The cause of breast cancer is unknown. Genetics plays a partial role, in the respect that people with breast cancer in their families have a higher risk of developing it. However, just because you have no history of breast cancer in your family, does not mean you will not get it.

• Age - The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Over 70% of breast cancers occur in women over 50.
• Family history - Only 5 to 10% of breast cancers may be linked to family history, however women who have a relative who has had breast cancer may face an increased risk of developing the disease. However, at least nine out of ten women who get breast cancer do not have a family history.
• There is a higher risk of breast cancer in women who drink alcohol.
• There may also be a link with high levels of fat in the diet, and obesity.

• a lump in your breast or armpit
• a lumpy area or thickening anywhere in the breast that feels different from the rest of the breast tissue
• enlarged glands under either armpit
• bloodstained nipple discharge
• any marked change of appearance in a nipple, such as the nipple 'pulling in' or a rash around the nipple
• differences in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling
• a change in the size or shape of one breast
• swelling, thickening or persistent pain in either breast that feels different from pre-menstrual tenderness
• swelling of the upper arm

• BreastCancer.org
• Cancer.gov