What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast.The breast is made up of lobes and ducts. Each breast has 15 to 20 sections called lobes, which have many smaller sections called lobules. Lobules end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can produce milk. The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are linked by thin tubes called ducts.Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women (excluding skin cancers). About 10% of American women will have it during their lifetimes. There are several types of breast cancer, but most occur in the breast ducts or lobes. The chance of getting breast cancer increases with age; women over 60 are especially at risk. Regular breast self-examination & mammography are important for early detection.

What is Cancer?

The name for diseases in which the body's cells become abnormal and divide without control. Cancer cells may invade nearby tissues. And they may spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of breast cancer

Early breast cancer can in some cases be painful. Usually breast cancer is discovered before any symptoms are present, either on mammography or by feeling a breast lump. A lump under the arm or above the collarbone that does not go away may be present. Other possible symptoms include breast discharge, nipple inversion and changes in the skin overlying the breast