A diagnosis in the favor of Breast Cancer of you or your loved one is an alarming topic of concern. It is one of the most common cancers among women around the globe, representing the majority of new cancer cases and cancer-related deaths according to global statistics, making it a highly notable public health problem in today’s society. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in the United States. The occurrence of breast cancer could be in both men and women, but it is much more common in women.
Due to rapid advancement in the field of science and technology, breast cancer survival rates have increased, and the number of deaths associated with this disease is also declining. This has largely occurred due to factors such as earlier detection, a new personalized approach to treatment, and a better understanding of the disease.
By gaining the right information and support, the emotional and physical journey of cancer can be more manageable and less lonely. The journey of breast cancer comprises many stages – you could be newly diagnosed, currently in treatment, post-treatment, or dealing with a loved one’s condition. But no matter where you are in that journey, emotional, physical, and mental support is a must along with the treatment and medication. Some of the factors that make women prone to breast cancer are:
- Age
The more you grow older, the more chances you have of getting breast cancer. Nearly 80 % of breast cancers are found in women over the age of 50. Around the world, nearly 80 percent of breast cancers are found in women over the age of 50.
- Childbearing and Menstruation Cycle
– It is believed that the older a woman has her first child, the greater she bears the risk of breast cancer. A woman is also highly prone to breast cancer if:
– She menstruates for the first time before the age of 12.
– She goes through menopause after the age of 55.
– Women who’ve never had children.
- Personal history
A woman is highly prone to develop breast cancer again if she has a history of cancer in one breast.
- Genetic factors
Women with certain genetic mutations, including changes to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are at higher risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime. Some other genetic changes may also contribute to raising the risk of breast cancer risk.
- Family history of breast cancer –
A woman has a higher risk of breast cancer if anybody in her family (mother, sister, or daughter) has had breast cancer, especially at a young age (before 40). Having other relatives with breast cancer may also raise the risk.
Breast cancer can have an impact on many aspects of your daily life. Everyone copes with their diagnosis differently. Going through breast cancer, like any other cancer, changes you as a person forever. It depends on you if the change is for better or for worse.