Protecting breast health: A complete guide to the prevention and treatment of breast cancer

Author: Liu Xinwei, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Reviewer: Zhu Mingzhi, deputy chief physician, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

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In modern society, the incidence of breast tumors continues to rise, especially breast cancer, which has become the number one health threat among female malignant tumors. There is no doubt that breast tumors are seriously affecting women's quality of life and health. However, many people do not know the term "breast tumor" very well, and their first reaction after hearing it may be: "Is it serious? Does it require surgery?" Next, let us take a deeper look at the types and symptoms of breast tumors, as well as scientific prevention and treatment strategies, so that we can take timely measures to protect our health.

1. What is a breast tumor?

Breast tumor is one of the common diseases in women, which can be divided into two categories: benign and malignant. Among benign tumors, the most common is breast fibroadenoma, accounting for about 75%; followed by intraductal papilloma, accounting for about 20%. Among malignant tumors, breast cancer accounts for the vast majority, about 98%. Although men can also get breast cancer, the incidence rate is only 1% of that of women.

2.What are the common types of breast tumors?

(1) Breast fibroadenomas are common in women aged 20 to 30, and are most common in women aged 20 to 25. Most patients will find a single lump in their breast. These lumps have a smooth surface, clear boundaries, and are easy to move. Currently, surgical resection is an effective method for treating fibroadenomas. If you find a lump in your breast in your daily life, do not ignore it. It is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Although fibroadenomas are benign, if not treated in time, the lump may continue to grow and even have the risk of turning into a malignant tumor.

(2) Intraductal papilloma Intraductal papilloma is common in women aged 40 to 50 years old, and is often noticed by nipple discharge. This discharge can be bloody, dark brown or yellow. Because the tumor is small, it is usually not palpable. The disease also has a certain rate of malignancy, and early diagnosis and treatment are equally important. The main treatment method is surgery. It is recommended that if similar symptoms are found, go to the hospital for examination in time to avoid delaying the disease.

(3) Breast cancer Breast cancer is a major threat hidden in our daily lives. It is not limited to the breast, but is a systemic disease that can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph. The common manifestation of early breast cancer is a painless single small lump. These lumps feel hard, have unclear boundaries, and are difficult to move, which is different from the feeling of fibroadenomas. As the disease progresses, "dimple sign" and "orange peel-like" changes may also appear, and even nipple retraction or depression may occur. In addition, enlarged axillary lymph nodes are also an important signal of breast cancer metastasis.

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3.How to prevent breast cancer?

Effective prevention is the key to reducing the incidence of breast tumors. The following are several important preventive measures:

(1) Regular screening: Women over 40 years old should undergo breast imaging screening (such as mammography or breast ultrasound) once a year. Women with a family history of breast cancer should start screening in advance with the advice of a doctor. Regular physical examinations can help detect lumps early and prevent tumors from worsening.

(2) Healthy lifestyle: A low-fat, fiber-rich diet can help reduce the risk of breast cancer, and reducing the intake of high-fat, high-sugar foods; maintaining regular exercise, controlling weight, and avoiding obesity are effective ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer; smoking and excessive drinking can increase the risk of breast cancer.

(3) Pay attention to breast self-examination: It is recommended to perform breast self-examination once a month, observe the breast shape, touch the breast tissue, and pay special attention to whether there are lumps, depressions, skin changes or nipple abnormalities. If any abnormalities are found, seek medical attention immediately. If necessary, perform breast ultrasound and mammography examinations and take timely treatment measures.

4. Treatment options and options for breast tumors

There are many treatments for breast tumors, mainly including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy and targeted therapy.

(1) Surgery: It is the main treatment for breast tumors and is divided into breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy. The specific choice depends on the size and location of the tumor.

(2) Radiotherapy: Usually used as an adjuvant treatment after breast-conserving surgery to prevent local recurrence.

(3) Chemotherapy: used to kill cancer cells throughout the body, often used as an adjuvant treatment for patients in the middle and late stages or before and after surgery.

(4) Endocrine therapy: Suitable for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, it inhibits hormone levels in the body to prevent the growth of cancer cells.

(5) Targeted therapy: It directly acts on specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells and has significant effects. The treatment plan is usually personalized and formulated by a multidisciplinary team based on the patient's specific situation to improve the efficacy and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Although breast cancer is scary, it can be controlled as long as we enhance our health awareness and intervene early. Let us work together to face breast cancer and protect the health of ourselves and our families.