Breast Cancer

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer develops in the cells of the breasts and is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide. In Brazil, there is a 25% annual increase in the number of new cases. The disease also affects men, but it is rare: incidence in this group accounts for only 1% of all cases

According to data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA), it is estimated that 66.54 new cases will be diagnosed per 100,000 women between 2023 and 2025. In other words, more than 73,000 new cases are expected during this period
 

Symptoms 

In most cases, breast cancer can be detected in its early stages. The most common symptom is a lump in the breast area, which does not move and is usually painless. Other symptoms include:

• reddened, retracted, or orange peel-like skin on the breast area
• changes in the nipple
• small lumps in the armpits or neck
• unusual discharge from the breasts
   

These same symptoms can also appear in other conditions. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis

These signs should always be investigated. However, they may also be related to benign breast conditions

Most Common Types of Breast Cancer

The three most common types of breast cancer are:

• ductal carcinoma: this is the most common type and occurs when the tumor forms in the lining of one or more milk ducts, which carry breast milk from the lobules to the nipples.
• lobular carcinoma: the second most common type, it is associated with the structures that form the breast, known as lobules
• connective tissues:the second most common type, it is associated with the structures that form the breast, known as lobules

Other less common types of the disease include:

• inflammatory breast cancer
• paget’s disease
• phyllodes tumor
• angiosarcoma
• male breast câncer

Diagnosis

Imaging tests are essential for diagnosing breast cancer. The mammogram (an X-ray of the breasts) is the primary test for detecting the disease, capable of showing suspicious changes even before the tumor can be felt

Based on the results, a biopsy is performed, which involves removing a small part of the lump for laboratory analysis, called a histopathological exam

The combination of data collected from imaging tests and the biopsy informs the physician to confirm the presence of breast cancer

Imaging tests are essential for diagnosing breast cancer. Mammography (an X-ray of the breasts performed with a specialized machine) is the primary method for detecting the disease, capable of revealing suspicious changes even before a tumor can be felt by touch

Based on the results, a biopsy is performed, which involves removing a small part of the lump for laboratory analysis, known as a histopathological exam

The combination of data collected from imaging tests and the biopsy forms the basis for the physician to confirm the presence of breast cancer

Treatment

The treatment for breast cancer varies depending on:

• the characteristics of the tumor
• the location of the lump(s)
• the presence of metastases (other tumor sites in the body)
• the biological characteristics of the patient
• The patient’s overall condition, such as age, presence of comorbidities (like obesity and liver cirrhosis), and proximity to menopause in female patients
   

Breast cancer therapies can be divided into:

• local treatment: surgery and radiotherapy (including breast reconstruction)
• systemic treatment: chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and biological therapy

When the disease is diagnosed early, treatment has a higher chance of being curative. Depending on the aggressiveness of the cancer, treatment may aim to prolong survival and improve quality of life

In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended. However, it must be carried out under strict medical supervision and for the shortest time necessary

Einstein Oncology and Hematology offers comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment. Learn more
 
 

Prevention

In general, prevention is based on controlling risk factors. Some recommendations include:

• maintaining a healthy body weight as recommended by healthcare professionals
• following a balanced diet
• engaging in regular physical activity
• avoiding alcohol consumption
• quitting smoking

You can also learn more about breast cancer by watching videos from our specialist
 

References 

BERNARDES, Nicole Blanco et al. Breast Cancer X Diagnosis. Revista de psicologia, v. 13, n. 44, p. 877-885, 2019

CAMPOS, Angélica Atala Lombelo et al. Tempo para diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama na assistência pública e privada. Revista Gaúcha de Enfermagem, v. 43, p. e20210103, 2022
INCA - Instituto Nacional De Câncer. Estimativa 2023: Incidência de câncer no Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: 2022
SARTORI, Ana Clara N.; BASSO, Caroline S. Câncer de mama: uma breve revisão de literatura¹. Perspectiva, Erechim, v. 43, p. 161, 2019

By the Einstein Editorial Board