Breast cancer is the most diagnosed type of cancer in the United States. Women roughly have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer at some point in their life. While breast cancer can occur in men, it is quite rare (about 1 in 833). Meaning this disease generally affects women—primarily those age 45 and older. The average age of U.S. women diagnosed with breast cancer is 62 years old. About 9% of cases are in women younger than 45.
What is Breast Cancer?
Like all cancers, this type is characterized by rapid and erratic cell growth. There are several types of breast cancer, but the two most common types are:
- Invasive ductal carcinoma
- Invasive lobular carcinoma
The distinction between these two types is where cancer develops initially, whether in the ducts or lobules. If cancer spreads outside of the breast tissue to other areas of the body, it is then classified as having “metastasized”.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
It’s important to note that most breast cancer cases are highly treatable if detected early. The best way to ensure early detection is to visit your physician regularly for normal checkups, especially if you are experiencing symptoms.
Symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A new lump or mass in the breast or armpit area
- Irritation, dimpling, thickening/swelling, redness, or flaking of the breast tissue
- Breast or nipple pain
- Irregular nipple discharge
- Change in size or shape of the breast or nipples
Knowing your body, specifically your breasts, is the best way to know when something is wrong. There is no “normal” breast. Every person has unique breasts, and your breasts will change with age.
Am I at Risk for Breast Cancer?
Like most cancers, the direct cause of breast cancer is unknown. However, certain factors may increase your risk of developing breast cancer. These risk factors include:
- Age and Female sex – Women over the age of 45 are most commonly diagnosed with breast cancer
- Family history - Certain genes or genetic mutations
- Not being physically active
- Being overweight or obese
- Certain hormone replacement therapies
- Never having a full-term pregnancy
- Not breastfeeding
- Delivering their first child at age 35 or later
- Tall stature – women who are >69 inches tall
- Drinking alcohol
- Longer exposure to hormones – starting to menstruate before 13 and beginning menopause after age 55
- Dense breasts
- Personal history of breast cancer
- Exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES)
- Exposure to radiation at a young age, especially between the age of 10-14
It’s important to remember that just because you have increased risk factors does not mean you will develop breast cancer. However, if possible, you should change lifestyle factors that may increase your risk. This means prioritizing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
Screening mammograms are recommended annually starting at the age of 40 unless you have risk factors, which may mean starting annual mammograms earlier. Questions? Ask your doctor when it's best to start screening.