Breast Cancer awareness: Types and treatment options

Why is it important to be aware of breast cancer? As per studies, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women in the whole world. The cancer forms in either the lobules or the ducts of one or both breasts.Cancer can also occur in the fatty tissue or the fibrous connective tissue within the breast.

Contrary to popular conception, breast cancer is not limited to women. Men too are susceptible to be diagnosed with breast cancer.

A basic knowledge of types of breast cancer and what are the various symptoms will help you to get better prepared for the ongoing battle. The two broad types are-

Invasive Breast Cancer- This form of cancer has spread from the ducts or glands to other parts of the breast.

• Invasive ductal carcinoma- This most common type of breast cancer begins in breast’s milk ducts and then invades nearby tissue in the breast.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) – It first develops in your breast’s lobules (the glands that produce milk). If breast cancer is diagnosed as ILC, it means it has already spread to nearby tissue and organs.

Non-invasive or in situ Breast Cancer-In this type, cancer has not spread from the original tissue.

• Ductal carcinoma in sit-With DCIS, the cells that line the ducts (pathways that bring the milk from the glands to the nipple) in your breast change and look cancerous.
• Lobular carcinoma in situ- This cancer grows in the milk-producing glands of your breast but has not spread to other organs.

 

The type of cancer you have and at which stage it has reached from 0 to 5 determines your treatment options, as well as your prognosis (likely long-term outcome). Doctors use various tests that include Mammogram, Ultrasound and breast biopsy to diagnose breast cancer.