Cancer is a disease in which normal cells begin to divide uncontrollably and do not die, eventually forming tumors – cancerous tissues – in their entirety.

Staging cancer refers to how much it has grown and spread. Grading depends on how abnormal cancer cells look under a microscope.

1. What is cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases caused by cells growing uncontrollably, invading other parts of the body and spreading (metastasizing). Cancerous tumors may arise anywhere on or inside of us and eventually spread throughout.

Doctors typically categorize cancer into stages based on its progression and spread. Some cancers may also be classified by grade, determined through microscope examination of samples.

2. What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Breast cancer symptoms usually include a lump or mass in the breast. Other signs may include pain, skin changes, nipple tenderness or discharge.

Cancer that begins in the breast’s ducts or lobules is known as invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and may spread to nearby lymph nodes as well as distant cancerous sites in other parts of the body (distant cancer). Inflammatory breast cancer may present similarly and show similar symptoms.

3. What are the causes of breast cancer?

Breast cancer has many causes, such as age, being female and family history of it. Other risk factors for developing it may include hormone therapy use, obesity and diet high in fat.

Some breast cancers are caused by mutations in genes. These mutations alter how cells work, leading to tumors that grow out of control and spread throughout the body.

4. What are the treatments for breast cancer?

Breast cancer treatments often consist of surgery, radiation therapy and medication; the latter helps kill any remaining cancerous cells or prevent further growth.

Medication may be taken either through an IV (intravenous) tube, injection into muscles or under the skin or as pills you swallow; usually prescribed by a medical oncologist.

Some women benefit from hormone therapy to lower the chance of recurrence and potentially shrink tumors before surgery – this treatment method is known as neoadjuvant therapy.

5. What are the side effects of breast cancer treatment?

The effects of breast cancer treatments vary according to individual circumstances, with fatigue and nausea being some of the more commonly experienced side effects, while more serious consequences such as bone thinning or blood clots could also arise.

Doctors use a technique known as biopsy to take tissue samples from areas suspected of malignancy. Once harvested, doctors then study these cells under a microscope in order to provide a definitive diagnosis.

6. How can I reduce my risk of breast cancer?

While no cure exists for breast cancer, you can do several things to lower your risk. Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are all proven strategies for decreasing risk; similarly avoiding hormone replacement therapy with estrogen and progestin postmenopause may also contribute significantly.

Follow screening guidelines and familiarize yourself with your family history to assess risks for potential screening tests. Preventive surgeries or medication could also be options available to those at higher risks.

7. What is the best treatment for me?

Your medical practitioner should discuss all available treatment options with you to provide a tailored approach that best addresses your situation.

How severe and frequent are your symptoms?

Get your doctor to examine the lymph nodes located under your armpit (axillary lymph nodes) regularly as this can provide valuable clues as to whether breast cancer has spread further.

Ask your physician to explain any medical terms that leave you confused, as being informed can give you greater confidence when making treatment choices.

8. What is the best way to prevent breast cancer?

Although there’s no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, you can reduce your risk by seeking regular checkups, being physically active, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Some factors affecting breast cancer risk, like age, family history and genetics, are beyond your control; but others, including exercise, weight, diet and alcohol intake are under your own management.

9. What is the best treatment for me if I have breast cancer?

Your choice of treatment for breast cancer depends on a number of factors, including its type and stage. It is essential that you educate yourself as much as possible about available options, ask any necessary questions at appointments, and bring someone along for emotional support as you make decisions regarding treatment.

10. What is the best treatment for me if I have stage IV breast cancer?

Based on the stage of your cancer, there are various treatment options. Your physician will suggest one that meets your individual needs best.

Staging of cancer involves two steps. Staging measures the size and extent of your tumor while grading evaluates how abnormal its cells look under a microscope.

Chemotherapy employs drugs to attack cancerous cells, but may also harm healthy ones causing side effects and an array of side effects.