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When it comes to breast cancer, we talk about it, walk and raise money for it, and distribute a lot of information about it, but we often forget to explain the basics – just what is breast cancer? Breast cancer is defined as cancer of the breast, which still doesn’t explain how it begins, so let’s back up a step and define cancer in general. Cancer begins with a cell. Every living thing is made up of cells. In very simple terms, our bodies are a structure of cells; muscles, organs, blood, nerves, skin and everything else in our body are made up of cells. Normal cells grow, eventually die and are replaced by healthy new cells. But, what if this doesn’t happen? What if cells grow, but don’t die off like they should? If this happens, cancer begins.
The next question is why do cells continue to grow and not die off like they should? The answer lies in the cell’s genes. Every cell contains genes. The genes are the commanders of the cells and tell them what to do. Each gene is made up of DNA that is unique to every person. If DNA becomes damaged or changes over time, it can tell cells to grow faster and act different than they would normally. These “changed” cells are cancer cells. As cancer cells multiply, they continue to change and each new cell is different than the original cell. As the cells grow, they form a tumor, which can be either benign or malignant. Benign tumors, considered non-cancerous, contain cells that are still similar in appearance, grow slowly, and do not spread. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes and other body organs.
With this basic information about cancer, we can answer the question, what is breast cancer? To begin, each breast is made up of glands, ducts (thin tubes) and fatty tissue. Groups of glands that produce milk are called lobules. Milk is transported from the lobules to the nipple through a network of ducts. Fatty tissue surrounds the lobules and ducts to protect them. When the DNA from a cell in one of these areas is damaged or changed and grows out of control, a malignant tumor may form. This is breast cancer.
The most common types of breast cancer either start in the ducts (ductal carcinoma) or in the lobules (lobular carcinoma). They can be non-invasive meaning they are confined to the breast tissue, or invasive, which means they have spread beyond the original cancer site. Almost all breast cancers start in the tissue lining the breast. These are known as carcinomas. Breast cancers that begin in the glands, lobules or ducts are called adenocarcinomas. Another type of breast cancer is a sarcoma. This is a cancer that starts in the breast’s connective tissues like muscles, fat, or blood vessels. However, sarcomas in the breast are quite rare.
While this is a very basic explanation of breast cancer, it is a very complex disease and there are many types. No matter the type however, the most important thing is to find the cancer early, as it responds best to treatment before it has spread. Talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts. The earlier breast cancer is found and treated, the better the outcome.
DISCLAIMER: The information and products on this website are in no way intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any cancer related illness, disease or condition whatsoever. Anyone looking for medical advice needs to contact a Licensed physician. Please read the disclaimer below for more information
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