Breast Cancer
What is Breast Cancer ?
Breast cancer is a disease where there is abnormal growth of the cells lining the breast tissues or ducts. There are different types of breast cancer and some may have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Breast cancer cells usually form a tumour that can be felt as lump or be seen with medical imaging procedures (ie. mammogram or sonogram). Breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, but men can get breast cancer too.Different people will experience different symptoms whilst some people will not have any signs or symptoms at all. Early detection is aided by screening programs, here are some warning signs of breast cancer:
- Lump in the breast or armpit
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Thickening or swelling on parts of the breast
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
- Sinking of the nipple
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
- Pain in any area of the breast
What causes Breast Cancer?
Although the causes of breast cancer is still unknown, we do know that certain risk factors may put you at a higher risk of developing it. Your individual risk may be affected by many different factors such as age, having dense breast tissue, family history of breast cancer, early menstruation and never having been pregnant.
Why is it important?
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and 1 in 8 women will expect to have breast cancer in their lifetime. There is no known prevention for breast cancer, however, the risk of breast cancer can be reduced by lowering modifiable risk factors such as reducing alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy weight. Most common types of breast cancers have a very good long-term outlook if the cancer is detected early, so don’t forget to check your donuts!
Want to find out more about Breast Cancer?
Follow the link below to The National Breast Cancer Foundation
“To make a difference in someone’s life you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful or perfect. You just have to care.”
Show Your Support
We’ve created some fun T-shirts and totes to help bring awareness to Breast Cancer and support those living with it. A percentage of each purchase will be donated to Breast Cancer Network Australia to help provide free information and support to Australians affected by breast cancer.
