Written by Deborah Ellul
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast Cancer originates from specified changes within body cells, also known as mutations. The body cells start to divide and increase in an irrepressible manner, consequently evolving into breast cancer.
Generally, the place where the cancer commences its growth is either in the lobules or the ducts of the breast. The lobules are the glands that produce milk and the ducts are what help contribute to facilitate milk out of the body. Since the cancer cells often spread in a rapid way, they can eventually attack other healthy tissues in the breast, also attacking the lymph nodes beneath the arms.
Therefore, the common types of breast cancers are:
- Ductal Breast Cancer (Starting in the ducts)
- Lobular Breast Cancer (Starting in the lining of the lobules)
Breast Cancer can also be categorised based on its potential to spread to other regions of the breast and the body. A non – invasive one means that the cancer has not spread yet. We call this a Ductal Carcinoma in Situ ( DCIS) as it remains in the ducts. On the contrary, an invasive breast cancer will metastasize in a fast pace, spreading to other parts like the lymph nodes, different sections of the breast and other areas inside the body. Regrettably, specialists find this type of cancer commonly, with statistics showing that eight out of ten cancers are invasive.
Be that as it may, over the years there has been an enormous decline in the mortality rate, particularly between the 1930’s and the 1970’s according to WHO. Notably in the 1980’s, the survival rate improved due to the early screening and other various treatment derogating the metastasizing.
History of Pink October
During October we celebrate the Pink October campaign. People and organisations aspire to increase awareness regarding breast cancer for both genders, with aim that it becomes a less stigmatised topic.
Pink October originated back in the 1990’s, with the contribution of certain devoted women and other willing societies. Charlotte Hailey, for instance, was one of the main pillars in starting Pink October. Her loved ones, being survivors of breast cancer, instigated a certain incentive in Charlotte to convey more awareness and a grander insight into the subject. Thus, the pink ribbon was created to bring forth this awareness. Along with each number of ribbons given, Charlotte use to leave a small note that said:
The National Cancer Institute annual budget is $1.8 billion, only 5 percent goes for cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon
A. Zubko, 2012
Evidently, her persistent exertion reached a good number of people that decided to support her. Betty Ford was one of the contributors, along with Evelyn H Lauder and the American Cancer Society. Due to their diligence they continue to this day to not only share awareness but raise funds to help with research on prevention and other relations
Risks and Symptoms
Breast cancer is displayed in many forms, one of which can be as a lump (in the breast area?) without any pain. This detection is not something to be taken lightly, so one should consult a doctor immediately and remain safe as possible. Nevertheless, lumps can develop from many other causes, that of which are rarely cancer. Some examples can include cysts and even early signs of infection.
There are certain symptoms which can occur in the very early stages, but one can recognize them with some proper observations. These include:
- Swelling in the breast area
- The skin of the breast appearing red or dry
- A peeling sight in the areola area
- Alteration in the placement of the nipple ( ex: being inverted)
- Pain in the breast
It is vital to remember that breast cancer is not transmissible. Moreover, there is not a recognised bacteria contributing to growth, unlike cervical cancer, for example. As mentioned before, women are more prone to breast cancer detection. The probability of getting breast cancer rises as we age. That said, there are some factors which can mitigate these chances.
These include:
- Undertaking physical activity – 5 hours of moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout the week, such as a hurried walk, can help immensely.
- Setting up a healthy balanced diet
- Avoiding harmful activities like smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol
Additionally, breastfeeding can be a great tool in reducing the risks. Yet, in some cases, breast cancer can be found in the family history, hence it is challenging to evade such chances. Therefore, one ought to check themselves regularly!
Dealing with the news
Breast cancer, or any type of such diagnosis, is never a simple news to digest. It takes time and emotional effort to process this news and there will never be a good and bad way to deal with such matters. Everyone is entitled to feel sad and scared, as initially it may seem like a dark endless tunnel. However, after this turmoil of emotions and acclimation to the situation, a person is likely to be willing to fight the illness. If this is the case, there are a number of things one might do to help have a smoother recovery:
- Familiarise yourself with the type of cancer. This may require you to consult with doctors and nurses to see if the cancer is invasive or non-invasive and other relevant details. Bringing a family member or a friend with can be helpful in increasing support!
- Discuss with your loved ones. Such news may make a person feel alienated, however, talking can help immensely to decrease this from occurring. Cancer should not be fought alone, therefore, it is good to reach out!
- See the future steps for treatment. If one chooses that treatment is paramount, there are some steps to be considered. Firstly, research what treatment is accessible in the country. Subsequently, check what effects the treatment will have on your body (example: Loss of appetite). Keep in mind that there may be alternatives to certain treatments!
- Join a cancer support group. In Malta there are quite a large number of choices, two of which are the Action for Breast Cancer Foundation and the Malta Male Cancer Awareness. These can offer an immeasurable amount of support which can overcome certain obstacles that come with cancer.
Therefore, we should support one another during these harsh times, by being sensible and patient. What may seem as small gestures, such as being present and available, can already be enough!
