Let's talk about breast cancer today

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. These cells usually form a tumor that can be seen on an X-ray or felt as a lump. It can begin in different parts of the breast, most commonly in the ducts or lobules.

Types of Breast Cancer

Non-invasive (in situ)

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): Cancer cells are inside the ducts and haven't spread.

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS): Abnormal cells in the lobules, not true cancer but a risk factor.

Invasive (infiltrating)

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): Most common; starts in the ducts and spreads.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Starts in the lobules and spreads.

Other rare types

Inflammatory breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer

HER2-positive breast cancer

Paget’s disease of the breast

Male breast cancer (rare, but possible)

(These will be discussed in another post)

Risk Factors

Non-modifiable

Age (risk increases with age)

Gender (mostly affects women)

Family history

Genetics (BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations)

Personal history of breast conditions

Modifiable

Obesity

Alcohol use

Smoking

Lack of physical activity

Hormone replacement therapy

Radiation exposure

Symptoms

Lump in the breast or underarm

Change in breast shape or size

Dimpling or puckering of skin

Nipple discharge (especially blood)

Inverted nipple

Redness or flaky skin on the breast

Pain in any area of the breast

Diagnosis

Clinical breast exam

Imaging: Mammogram, ultrasound, MRI

Biopsy: Core needle biopsy or fine needle aspiration

Stages

Staging is based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis (TNM system):

Stage 0: Non-invasive (DCIS)

Stage I–III: Increasing tumor size and spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs (metastatic)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and characteristics of the tumor.

Local Treatments

Surgery:

Lumpectomy (breast-conserving)

Mastectomy (removal of the breast)

Radiation therapy

Systemic Treatments

Chemotherapy

Hormone therapy (for hormone receptor-positive cancers)

Targeted therapy (like HER2-targeted drugs)

Immunotherapy (especially in triple-negative cancers)

Prognosis

Prognosis varies widely depending on:

Stage at diagnosis

Tumor type and biology

Patient's age and health

Response to treatment

Early-stage breast cancer generally has a high survival rate, especially with prompt treatment.

Prevention & Screening

Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, exercise, avoiding alcohol, maintaining weight

Screening:

Mammograms (starting age varies; typically around 40-50 depending on risk)

Breast self-exams and clinical breast exams

Genetic counseling/testing if there's a strong family history

Two days ago we celebrated mother's day, come to think of it who is a mother?

A mother is someone who nurtures, cares for, and provides love and support to a child. This can be biological, adoptive, or even in a chosen family dynamic. A mother isn’t just defined by giving birth but by the role she plays in a child's life—offering guidance, protection, and unconditional love.

Characteristics of a mother

A mother is often characterized by a mix of emotional, psychological, and practical qualities. While every mother is unique, some common characteristics include:

1. Unconditional Love – A mother’s love is deep, unwavering, and not based on conditions. She cares for her children regardless of their flaws.

2. Nurturing Nature – She provides emotional and physical support, ensuring her children feel safe, loved, and cared for.

3. Patience – Raising children requires immense patience, from teaching life lessons to handling tantrums.

4. Selflessness – A mother often puts her child’s needs before her own, sacrificing time, sleep, and personal desires for their well-being.

5. Strength and Resilience – She remains strong through challenges, whether emotional, financial, or personal, to support her family.

6. Guidance and Wisdom – A mother imparts life lessons, values, and knowledge, helping her children navigate life’s ups and downs.

7. Protectiveness – She instinctively protects her child from harm, whether emotional or physical.

8. Compassion and Empathy – Understanding her child’s feelings and struggles, she provides comfort and reassurance.

9. Dedication and Hard Work – Whether she’s a stay-at-home mom, a working mother, or balancing both, she is committed to providing a better life for her child.

10. Forgiveness – Even when children make mistakes, a mother forgives and continues to support them.

While these characteristics are common, motherhood looks different for everyone. Some mothers may express love through actions rather than words, while others may be more emotional.

What do you think defines a mother best?

Let's have your opinion on this

This is a new day filled with so much blessings for us all, may God almighty guide us all and protect us in Jesus Name Amen.