Breast Cancer

Did you know that Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst Singaporean women? All women are at risk and the chance of developing Breast cancer increases with age.

Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breasts grow abnormally.

Risk factors include:

1. Age and gender
   1. Most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are 40 years old and above. However, some younger women may also be affected.
   2. Breast cancer not only affects women, men are at risk too. Due to the smaller size of the male breast, Breast cancer is often diagnosed when it is at an advanced stage.

       

2. Family history
   1. Research has shown that certain genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, may be associated with development of Breast cancer. A woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is significantly higher if she inherits an abnormal form of either of the two genes.

       

3. Reproductive and Breastfeeding history
   1. Increased risks are associated with either early and/or prolonged exposure to estrogen hormones. These include
      1. Not having children or having children after the age of 35
      2. Onset of menstruation before the age of 11
      3. Cessation of menstruation after the age of 55

Did you knot that breastfeeding, when carried out for more than a year, can reduce exposure to estrogen and reduce a woman’s risk of breast cancer.

4. Diet
   1. High intake of saturated animal fats as red meat and animal fats may increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.
   2. It is recommended to have a well-balanced diet with sufficient fruits and vegetables containing Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamins A, C and E as well as Selenium.

5. Body weight and physical activity
   1. Obesity, especially in post-menopausal women, is associated with increased risk.
   2. Regular physical activity is associated with lower estrogen levels, which in turn reduces risk of Breast cancer.

6. Prior personal history of breast cancer

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Early breast cancer may not exhibit any symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms may include:

1. Breast lumps
2. Bloody nipple discharge
3. Changes in the skin overlying the breasts and/or nipples
4. Breast pain

It is also recommended to perform monthly breast self-examination. Do consult your doctor promptly if you experience any symptoms or find any abnormalities. Your doctor may order imaging of the breasts and advise accordingly.

Schedule your health screening with AcuMed!