Do you understand these "distress signals" sent by breasts?

Recently, a 36-year-old woman in Beijing was diagnosed with breast cancer after a long delay because she did not pay attention to the pimples on her breasts. Breast cancer is a common malignant tumor in women and seriously threatens women's life and health. So, what are the early signs of breast cancer? How to prevent breast cancer? This article will give you a detailed analysis.

Early signs of breast cancer

1. Breast skin changes

In the early stages of breast cancer, the breast skin may show local depressions or orange peel-like changes . This is because the tumor invades the mammary ducts, causing abnormalities on the skin surface. Therefore, when people find abnormal changes in the breast skin, they should seek medical attention in time to rule out the possibility of breast cancer.

2. Bloody fluid from the nipple

Nipple discharge is one of the early signs of breast cancer. If the nipple secretes bloody fluid, you should be highly alert to breast cancer. In addition, symptoms such as nipple itching, desquamation, and erosion may also be related to breast cancer.

3. Lumps in the breast or armpit

In the early stages of breast cancer, patients may feel lumps in their breasts or armpits. These lumps are hard, have unclear edges, and poor mobility. If such lumps are found, you should see a doctor in time for a detailed examination.

Pay attention to the five major causes of breast cancer

1. Genetic factors

Studies have shown that about 5% to 10% of breast cancer patients have a family history of genetic predisposition. In particular, women who carry breast cancer susceptibility genes have a significantly increased risk of developing breast cancer. Gene mutations can damage the DNA repair mechanism, making cells more susceptible to cancer.

2. Fertility and menstrual history

Women who have their first menstruation before the age of 12 and menopause after the age of 55 have a higher risk of breast cancer due to long-term hormone exposure. In addition, not having children or having children late, not breastfeeding or breastfeeding for a short period of time may also increase the risk of breast cancer. 3. Lifestyle

Long-term smoking and drinking, high-fat, high-calorie diets, lack of exercise, and obesity are all considered risk factors for breast cancer. These lifestyle factors can promote the occurrence of breast cancer by affecting hormone levels, increasing oxidative stress, and inflammation.

4. Changes in hormone levels

Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills containing estrogen increases the risk of breast cancer because these drugs can change hormone levels in the body, thereby promoting the growth and proliferation of breast cells.

5. Environmental factors

Long-term exposure to radiation, certain chemicals, and pollutants in the living and working environment may increase the risk of breast cancer. These environmental factors can promote the occurrence of breast cancer by inducing gene mutations, affecting hormone metabolism and immune system function.

To prevent breast cancer, we must first maintain good living habits. Here are some suggestions for your reference:

1. Reasonable diet: Maintain a balanced diet, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, and eat less high-fat, high-calorie foods.

2. Regular work and rest schedule: ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late.

3. Moderate exercise: Do moderate-intensity exercise at least 3 to 5 times a week, such as walking, jogging, swimming, etc.

4. Keep a happy mood: learn to release stress and maintain an optimistic attitude.

Perform regular breast self-examinations

1. Observation: Stand in front of a mirror and observe the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts, and whether your nipples are inverted or have discharge.

2. Touch: Lie on your back or stand, and gently touch the breasts and armpits with your fingers to check for lumps, nodules, and other symptoms.

Women should have regular breast examinations based on their age and risk factors. The following are recommendations for breast examinations:

1. Women aged 40 to 70: Have a mammogram once a year.

2. Women aged 70 and above: Have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years.

3. High-risk groups: If you have a family history of breast cancer or a history of breast disease, it is recommended to undergo breast examination in advance and increase the frequency of examinations.

[Important Tips] For women over 40 years old, if they find enlarged lymph nodes under their armpits, especially those that tend to gradually increase in size, they should immediately seek medical attention for professional evaluation and examination. At the same time, male friends should also pay attention to their health. Although breast cancer is more common in women, men also have a certain probability of developing breast cancer.