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Cancer occurs because ofa mutation in the genes regulating cell growth. This mutation triggers uncontrolled cell division and multiplication. When this mutation happens in the breast and the surrounding tissues, it is termed ‘Breast Cancer’.
These tumours can develop in ducts or lobules of the breast. They may also occur in the fibrous connective tissue or fatty tissue within the breast.
Symptoms
The initial stages rarely cause any symptoms,but a physical check-up or a mammogram can help in a definitive diagnosis.
Different breast cancers may cause different symptoms, butthere are certain common signs that you must be on the lookout for.
- Pain in breast
- A lump in the breast tissue that has developed recently and feels different from the surrounding tissues
- Pitted red skin covering the breast
- Flaking, peeling or scaling of the skin on your breast or nipple
- Unexplained and sudden change in size or shape of your breast
- Bloody discharge from the nipple
- Swelling or lump formation under your arms
- Inverted nipple
Note that having any of these symptoms should not be a cause of alarm. For example, if you have a breast lump or pain in any of your breasts, it can be caused by a benign cyst. However, you must consult with a specialist for a more thorough diagnosis.
Now that you know the symptoms, let us look at the causes..
Causes
Breast cancer can result from various combinations of your lifestyle, environment, and genes. However, there are some factors that put you more at risk of developing it.
1.Age
Ageing is one of the critical factors that can lead to breast cancer. People above the age of 50 are more at risk of developing it.
2.Gender
Even though it can be found in all genders, females are more likely to develop it.
3.Exposure to radiation
Receiving radiation treatment or exposure to radiation in any form can also increase the risk of developing the disease.
4.Lifestyle risks
Excessive and long-term drinking and smoking, being overweight, and unhealthy lifestyle choices put you more at risk of developing the disease.
5.Inheritance
Gene mutations passed down through generations of a family are another cause of the disease. Breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and Breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2) are responsible for it. If your family hasa history of the disease, you are at an increased risk.
There are other uncontrollable factors that increase the risk of developing the disease like- early periods, late menopause, never conceiving or late conception.
Knowing the causes enables you to be better equipped to fight this deadly disease. However, a thing that you must remember is that the costs associated with breast cancer treatment are very high. Everything, from the tests, to the doctor’s visit, to the medications are expensive and can cause you immense financial stress.
Hence, you must be prepared for this well in advance. A Cancer Insurance planis the perfect protection against any such eventuality. The plan will offer you comprehensive cover atan affordable premium. It can ensure that you and your family are well cared for in case you are diagnosed with cancer.Therefore, you must consider getting a cancer insurance policy at the earliest
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