Tag: Breast Cancer

Know the 7 Symptoms of Malignant Breast Cancer

The most common symptom of cancer is a lump in the breast. However, there are more worrying signals. It is worth knowing them, because the effectiveness of breast cancer treatment depends on how early it is detected.

Although it is the most common cancer in women (about 20% of cancers), the causes of breast cancer are unknown. Factors that increase the risk include, family history of breast cancer, a mutation in the BRCA gene, the first menstrual period before the age of 12 and menopause after the age of 55, or regular drinking of alcohol. Breast cancer detected early is almost always curable. Unfortunately, women report to the doctor late, which drastically worsens the prognosis. Every woman should regularly examine her breasts and know the basic symptoms of this dangerous cancer.

The main symptoms of breast cancer. The 7 most important symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • Tumor in the breast
  • nipple changes (nipple retraction, nippleulceration)
  • nipple discharge
  • skin lesions of the breast (skin pulling, orange peel symptom, ulceration, satellite nodules),
  • lymphadenopathy
  • breast pain,
  • signs of inflammation in the breast (swelling, redness, warmer skin, pain).

The listed symptoms of breast cancer do not have to appear simultaneously, you may notice some of them or only one. Also, remember that the lack of feeling a lump in the breast during self-examination does not exclude the existence of breast cancer.

Lump in the breast

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a tumor. It occurs in 65-75% of cases. It is generally a hard, painless, clearly limited change, often perceptible by touch. It may have uneven edges. Very rarely, a lump in the breast is accompanied by symptoms such as pulling, pinching or other ailments. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor about any disturbing change found in the breast.

If you feel lumps or lumps in the breast, it is important to observe them throughout the menstrual cycle. Thickenings that grow before menstruation and decrease or disappear completely after menstruation are probably a harmless physiological change. In most women, the breasts swell a few days before their period, which is associated with hormonal changes and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Breast cancer, on the other hand, may be indicated by all lumps and lumps that appeared suddenly and do not change size during the cycle. All such changes should be reported to the doctor, as they may indicate the development of cancer.

Nipple changes

An important symptom of breast cancer is any changes affecting the wart. The fact that a malignant tumor develops in the breast is often evidenced by pulling the nipple inside or ulceration of this part of the breast. The ulcer can proceed as erosion or eczema at the edge of the nipple (a typical symptom of Paget’s cancer). The occurrence of changes in the appearance of the wart should be consulted with a doctor.

In some patients, nipple retraction occurs during puberty and is not a cause for concern, but it is always worth seeking medical advice. Especially dangerous are concavities that appear suddenly after the age of 40.

Nipple leakage

Nipple leakage may or may not be a symptom of breast cancer. If the discharge has the appearance of a white-yellow liquid, hyperprolactinemia, that is, an excess of the hormone prolactin, is probably to blame. It is not a serious condition and usually disappears after taking the medications prescribed by the gynecologist.

However, it also happens that the discharge from the nipple is stained with blood. In this case, you should go to the doctor immediately, it may be a sign of breast cancer. Equally disturbing is the discharge of brown or green color – most often it indicates a harmless cyst, but it can also be caused by cancer.

Skin changes

In addition to the changes felt in self-examination, changes in the appearance of the breast may also be a symptom of breast cancer. A disturbing symptom is changes in size. If both breasts have enlarged, it is most likely the result of hormonal changes or weight gain and there is no need to worry. What is worrying, however, is the enlargement of only one breast.

All changes in the shape of the breast should be observed. If you see protruding nodules or, on the contrary, cavities, urgent contact with a doctor is needed .

Other signs of breast cancer are skin wrinkles and discoloration appearing on the skin.

Skin infiltration and ulcers testify to the advanced stage of development of breast cancer. One of the skin symptoms is also the occurrence of the so-called orange peel (in inflammatory breast cancer).

The late stage of breast cancer or relapse of the disease is evidenced by satellite nodules – these are small skin thickenings that develop in close proximity to the primary tumor focus.

Remission and progression in cancer

Lymphadenopathy Lymphadenopathy is a characteristic symptom of breast cancer and sometimes the first symptom with which patients report to the doctor.

Breast pain

Unfortunately, the pain is not a symptom of early breast cancer, but only advanced cancer. It appears late. If the pain appeared at the beginning, it would prompt many women to visit the doctor earlier and would probably affect the early detection of breast cancer and better prognosis.

Remember, however, that breast pain is a very common female ailment and generally does not indicate breast cancer.

Symptoms of inflammation

Symptoms of breast cancer that indicate inflammation (swelling, redness, warmer skin and pain) do not bode well. They point to the so-called inflammatory type of breast cancer, which is extremely aggressive. However, this type of cancer is quite rare.

Of course, inflammation does not have to be associated with cancer. A common cause of breast inflammation is stagnation of food or blockage of the milk ducts.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

The basic diagnostic tests for breast cancer are mammography and breast ultrasound . Mammography is more often intended for women over 40 years of age, and breast ultrasound for younger women. However, these two studies are also treated additionally. In case of disturbing results of mammography or ultrasound, the doctor may order a biopsy or excision of a lump in the breast, followed by a histopathological examination. The basic examination in the detection of breast cancer, however, is self-examination at home.

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Low hemoglobin and cancer : How often is anemia a symptom of cancer?

Anemia is usually a simple symptom to cure. It may, however, conceal cancers of the large intestine, stomach, ovary, kidney, lung, prostate, cervix, and other organs; thus, medical diagnostics should be especially comprehensive in this situation.

A complete blood count is one of the most fundamental preventive exams, and its results might raise the possibility of a variety of health problems, including cancer. Hemoglobin (Hb) is one of the most crucial metrics to pay close attention to.

Low hemoglobin and cancer

Low levels of hemoglobin (Hb), the oxygen-carrying protein present in red blood cells, are a sign of anemia. Anemia is a typical symptom of cancer development in the body and can occur as a side effect of cancer treatment. It is estimated that more than 40% of patients will experience it.

Of course, there are many other possible reasons for anemia (such as a poor diet or pregnancy), so additional diagnosis is required if blood test results are unsatisfactory. Adult men should have hemoglobin levels above 14 g/dl, while women should have levels above 12 g/dl.

What cancers can low hemoglobin indicate?

Low hemoglobin, indicative of anemia, is most common in  cancers such as:

  • colorectal cancer ,
  • cervical cancer ,
  • stomach cancer ,
  • lung cancer ,
  • kidney cancer ,
  • ovarian cancer ,
  • prostate cancer,
  • melanoma ,
  • leukemias ,
  • lymphomas .

It is believed that, in fact, all types of cancer can cause anemia. However, some increase this risk.

Anemia associated with cancer may result from various causes, such as:

  • bleeding (e.g. cancer in the reproductive tract, digestive or respiratory system),
  • iron, folic acid or vitamin B 12 deficiency , but also protein or vitamin B 6 deficiency – e.g. due to malabsorption or nutritional disorders, 
  • bone marrow damage during oncological treatment,
  • bone marrow infiltration or metastases,
  • hemolysis , i.e.  the passage of hemoglobin into the blood plasma caused by damage to the erythrocytes  (e.g. in lymphoma),
  • impaired erythropoiesis , i.e. the formation and multiplication of red blood cells (in various cancers)

Low hemoglobin and cancer. What does the MCV tell us?

Low hemoglobin indicates anemia, and the red blood cell volume (MCV) is an important parameter that can help identify the source of the condition. Microcytosis is typical of iron deficiency anemia, while macrocytosis occurs when there is a lack of folic acid or vitamin B12. Normally sized blood cells are found in chronic diseases.

Low iron levels and cancer

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia, accounting for 80% of all cases. A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that people with iron deficiency anemia have a higher risk of developing cancer, particularly pancreatic, kidney, liver and bladder cancer. Low iron levels can also indicate the presence of cancer. Bleeding can occur from the gastrointestinal tract, reproductive tract, kidneys and lungs.

What cancers cause low iron levels?

Low iron levels can indicate the development of cancers such as:

  • gastrointestinal cancers (e.g. colon cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer),
  • pancreatic cancer,
  • cancers of the genitourinary system (e.g. cervical cancer),
  • respiratory cancer (e.g. lung cancer),
  • blood cancers.

Oncological treatment may also contribute to iron deficiency, which is often the result of a weakened appetite or damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Anemia and cancer : What tests to do?

To begin, stool tests are performed numerous times to check for the presence of occult blood (which cannot be seen) and endoscopic examinations, which show the anatomy of nearly the whole digestive tract from the inside (except for the small intestine, which fortunately is rarely the site of tumor development). 

Urinalysis to detect the presence of red blood cells in the urine is recommended, and a gynecological examination is also recommended in women. Only after diagnosing the cause can suitable treatment, such as iron preparations, be implemented.

6 overlooked signs that point to cancer

There are many symptoms of a serious disease like cancer, but do you know that many common symptoms that we ignore, if they are paid attention to in time, then cancer can be treated on time.

In one of its articles, the British journal has described six symptoms that indicate cancer in any body.

Let’s know what these signs are that you should never ignore.

Abnormal lump or swelling on a part of the body:

If you are constantly seeing a lump on a part of the body and it is not disappearing, then take it seriously.

A study on cancer has warned that lumps or swelling around the neck, armpits, stomach, chest or breast can be a sign of cancer.

Britain’s National Health Service has advised that if the lump on your body is constantly increasing, then consult a doctor immediately.

Weight loss:

Unintentional weight loss can also be a warning sign of cancer.

Although minor weight changes are common, cancer research has warned that people who suffer significant weight loss without effort should contact their doctor.

Cancer can lead to weight loss for a variety of reasons.

For example, weight loss in bowel cancer can be caused by a tumor because it makes you feel sick or bloated, reducing your appetite.

Pain in parts of the body:

According to cancer research, you should seek medical advice for any permanent pain in the body because it can be a sign of something more serious.

Pain can be a sign of a tumor, for example, persistent sore throat can indicate throat cancer and abdominal pain can be a sign of bowel cancer.

Bleeding or bruising:

Bleeding or bruising without injury can be a warning sign of cancer.

According to cancer research, bleeding from blood or even vomiting or coughing in your stool or urine are symptoms that appear in many types of cancer.

Fatigue:

Feeling stressed all the time or having trouble sleeping or feeling more tired than usual is also an alarm.

Internal bleeding of the tumor can cause fatigue because it can turn into anemia.

Unusual sweating throughout the night:

According to cancer research, having a fever or sweating too much at night can be a sign of an infection.

Sweating can also be the effect of some medications, but if you get too much and drenched sweating at night, you need to consult a doctor.

Common signs of cancer that most people ignore

Cancer is the fastest-spreading disease around the world that causes millions of deaths each year.

But most people with cancer learn about the disease very late because they ignore the symptoms of the disease.

Ignoring the symptoms of cancer has disastrous consequences.

So learn about the symptoms of cancer that most people ignore.

Changes in the Skin

A new sign in the skin or changes in texture, color or volume can be a sign of skin cancer. If there is a sudden abnormal change in the skin, then you should consult a doctor.

Cough

It is a very common disease, but when it is such that it is not recovering despite treatment, it can be a sign of cancer, especially if you are addicted to smoking. If you start coughing and bleeding, it can also be a sign of cancer.

Flatulence
Women who complain of flatulence and do not have any early remission should consult a doctor. This can be a symptom of ovarian cancer.

Problems with urination

Most men experience urinary problems with aging, such as excessive urination or weakening of the bladder. Many times this happens as a result of bladder cancer.

Bleeding in the stool

If blood is seen after going to the toilet, it is better to consult a doctor.

Bleeding in the stool can also be a sign of colon cancer, while if blood is seen in the urine, it can be a sign of kidney or bladder cancer. However, it can be decided by the doctor after the test.

Difficulty in swallowing

Sometimes it becomes difficult to swallow things due to acidity or cold in the chest, but if the condition does not improve with time, then the doctor should be consulted.

Difficulty swallowing things is considered a sign of throat cancer or esophageal cancer.

Mouth problems

Ranging from the smell of breath to blisters, most mouth problems are not very serious, but if white or red marks start appearing inside the mouth that do not heal for a few weeks, then a doctor should be consulted.

It can be a sign of mouth cancer, its other symptoms include lumps in the cheeks, difficulty in moving jaws and pain in the mouth.

If the body weight starts decreasing rapidly for no reason, then it is also a warning bell.

It can also be the first sign of pancreatic, gastrointestinal, esophageal, lung or other types of cancer.

If there is a fever that is not cured and the cause is not understood, then it can be a sign of blood cancer.

Heartburn or indigestion

Heartburn is quite common and is the result of diet or stress.

However, if there is a complaint of heartburn all the time, then you should consult a doctor and find out the reason because it can also be a sign of stomach cancer.

Fatigue

Several things can make people very tired. But sometimes fatigue is also the first symptom of some types of cancer.

Patients with blood, colon, and stomach cancer often experience a lot of fatigue, which does not end despite rest.

If you also experience fatigue all the time, you should consult a doctor.

Breast

Breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer in women and therefore it is important to keep an eye on changes in the breast.

Note: This article is based on details published in medical journals, readers must also consult their physician in this regard.

Breast cancer-enhancing protein discovered

Scientists have discovered a rare mutant of protein in human cells that is potentially capable of promoting breast cancer within itself.

Researchers at the University of Manchester believe that targeting this variant called RAC1B could potentially dramatically increase the effectiveness of treatment. The efficacy of chemotherapy may increase if the altered type of this protein is somehow reduced in the body.

According to experts, this mutation can play an important role in making cancer cell resistant drugs for treatment.

Research also revealed that the absence of this protein causes cancerous tumors to not form and there are no harmful effects of not having it on the organs.

Dr Ahmed Ocher, a research fellow at breast cancer now at the University of Manchester, said that for the first time in the study, it has been seen that without RAC1B, breast cancer stem cells cannot make tumors and these cancerous cells become more vulnerable to chemotherapy, which makes the treatment more effective.

"RAC1B isn’t essential for healthy cells, so targeting this protein with new cancer treatments doesn’t do any serious harm," he said.

To demonstrate this, scientists transplanted breast cancer cells into mice.

The scientists found that cells that did not have RAC1B had no tumors even after 100 days.

In addition, lab-grown breast cancer cells without RAC1B could not regrow when treated with doxorubicin (a chemotherapy drug).

How likely is it that someone will get breast cancer?

Whether or not a woman gets breast cancer depends on a lot of different things. Most women don’t only start thinking about breast cancer when they turn 50.

Breast Cancer
Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels.com

Some people don’t use certain deodorants because they are said to have cancer-causing chemicals in them Some women have a faulty gene that increases their chances of developing breast cancer.

Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer may be carriers of an altered gene that can trigger these types of cancer.

Which genes play a role in breast cancer?

According to a study by the University Hospital in Münster, a number of genes can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

The genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 pose the biggest threat. Women with this genetic change have a 50–80% chance of getting breast cancer at some point in their lives. For comparison: In a woman without a genetic predisposition, it is twelve percent.

When does it make sense to have this risk clarified by a genetic test?

For example, if a patient is very young—under 36—or if the same tumours have been found in more than one family,

Then it’s important to have a full consultation. It’s important to know about the genetic risk because it’s inherited, which means that a mother can pass on the genetic defect to her daughter. Men can also carry the breast cancer gene, pass it on to their children, and, in rare cases, get sick from it.

A genetic test at a registered human geneticist or at a specialised centre provides certainty about whether a woman has breast or ovarian cancer. This includes an ultrasound twice a year, an annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and a mammogram every one to two years after the age of 40.

What influence do the hormones have?

A cancer called mammary carcinoma starts in the mammary gland and can spread into the deep breast tissue. The density of the breast tissue can also have an effect, but not so much on the chance of getting the disease as on when it is found. When the breast density is high, it’s hard to tell the difference between the white glandular tissue and the white tumour.

Over the course of a lifetime, the breasts change and gain more fat. Since X-rays can pass through this, changes are easier to spot. If a woman has a lot of breast tissue, a mammogram might not find a tumour until it has already spread. Because of this, an ultrasound is often part of the exam so that any problems can be found early on.

Hormones are important for the growth of breast cancer. On the other hand, pregnancy and breastfeeding bring it down. So far, there has been no evidence that hormonal contraception, like the birth control pill, increases the risk of getting breast cancer or ovarian cancer.

The increased breast cancer risk associated with taking hormone replacement therapy for the treatment of hot flashes during menopause has been proven. The risk increases the longer and higher the dose of hormones a woman takes. The lowest possible dose over a maximum of five years is recommended.

Hormone therapy can increase the risk of developing breast cancer by a factor of about 1.2 to 1.4 if you take it for five years. Around 12 out of 1,000 women between the ages of 50 and 55 will fall ill without hormone therapy.

Since breast cancer is often caused by hormones, hormones could speed up its growth. But there isn’t any scientific proof of this. “We carefully think about when to use hormone replacement therapy based on this information. It helps a lot with severe menopausal symptoms, but it’s very important to check your breasts often while you’re getting treatment.

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