Top Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer, Answered by a Breast Surgeon Who’s a Survivor

Today, we’re focusing on breast cancer awareness by shedding light on this crucial topic. We will address some of the most common and pressing questions people have about breast cancer. 

In this guide, we’ll answer the top questions people are searching for about breast cancer.

1. What Does Breast Cancer Look and Feel Like?

Breast cancer can appear and feel different for each person. 

You may first notice a lump when looking in the mirror, or observe a slight dimple or puckering on the skin that could signal an underlying issue. Other signs can include a rash, swelling of the breast, a change in the nipple position, or discharge.

When checking for changes, it's important to perform a monthly self-examination so you can become familiar with what’s normal for your body. Breasts are naturally lumpy before menopause, and many lumps are not cancerous. For example, smooth, movable lumps are often harmless fibroadenomas, while cysts can feel tense or balloon-like, especially before your menstrual cycle.

Breast cancer lumps, however, often feel different—firm, irregular, and immobile. Since some breast cancers are hard to feel, scans like ultrasounds are crucial for thoroughly assessing any lump.

2. How Do I Perform a Breast Self-Exam?

Start by looking in the mirror with your arms relaxed at your sides. If you have larger breasts, lift them to check the skin underneath. Then, raise your arms overhead and look for any new skin dimples or lumps. Place your hands on your hips and press inward to engage the muscles beneath the breast. Do you notice any dimples or lumps?

Next, feel your breasts. Lying down on a couple of pillows can help if you have larger breasts. Use the flat of your fingers and gently press against your chest wall to feel for any unusual lumps. You can move in circles starting at the nipple or follow a clock-face pattern to ensure you cover every area.

Finally, check your armpit for any swollen lymph nodes. If you haven’t yet reached menopause, it's best to do these checks mid-cycle, when your breasts are least lumpy.

3. What Causes Breast Cancer? Are There Risk Factors?

About 10% of breast cancers are linked to genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. However, the exact triggers that cause a healthy breast cell to become cancerous remain unknown.

Breast cancer begins when a cell develops a mutation and starts multiplying uncontrollably. Over time, this can form a lump that has the potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Several known risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, such as being female, getting older, and having dense breast tissue. Lifetime exposure to estrogen—linked to the use of contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—can also increase the risk for certain types of breast cancer.

Alcohol consumption and being overweight are additional factors that may elevate your risk. While healthy habits can help reduce your risk, it’s important to remember that many individuals who live healthily still develop breast cancer, which is why regular self-checks are so essential.

4. How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

Early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. Here's what typically happens during diagnosis:

1. Physical Exam: A trained medical professional will assess both breasts and armpits for any abnormalities.
2. Scans: A mammogram is usually recommended for women 40 and older. For those with denser breast tissue, an ultrasound may provide clearer results.
3. Biopsy: If a lump is found, a biopsy is done to remove a small tissue sample for analysis.

If necessary, additional tests like CT scans or lymph node scans may be performed to check if the cancer has spread.

No Blood Test Yet: While there is no blood test for breast cancer, research is underway to explore liquid biopsies for early detection.

Stay proactive, and remember, regular checks and screenings can make all the difference.

5. Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

The simple answer is no—there’s no surefire way to guarantee you won’t develop breast cancer. The primary risk factors, such as being female and ageing, are beyond our control.

However, lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk. Limiting alcohol to less than 14 units per week, maintaining a balanced diet, and exercising regularly are all positive steps toward lowering your risk. While these habits won’t fully prevent breast cancer, they contribute to better overall health, which can support your body during treatment if diagnosed.

It’s important to emphasize that living a healthy lifestyle can make you fitter and stronger should treatment be necessary. Plus, these habits reduce your risk of other major health concerns like heart disease and stroke.

By sharing this article with friends and family, you’re helping to raise awareness. Early detection is crucial and could make a life-saving difference. Let’s spread the word and work together to make a positive impact.

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