Breast Cancer and Its Types

Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer affecting women worldwide. Although it predominantly affects women, men can also develop breast cancer, albeit rarely. Early detection and understanding the specific type of breast cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.

In this article, we delve into what breast cancer is, the main types, risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tools, staging, and treatment options available today.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. These cells typically form a tumour that can often be seen on an X-ray or felt as a lump. If untreated, the cancerous cells can spread (metastasise) to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system.

Breast cancer usually begins in the ducts (ductal cancers) or lobules (lobular cancers) of the breast tissue and can be invasive or non-invasive (in situ).

Types of Breast Cancer

There are several types of breast cancer, each with distinct characteristics. Understanding these types helps doctors choose the most effective treatment plan for each individual.

1. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is a non-invasive breast cancer where abnormal cells are contained within the milk ducts. It is considered stage 0 breast cancer and rarely shows symptoms.

Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic; may be detected via routine mammogram.

Treatment: Surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, and sometimes hormone therapy.

2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

IDC is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for 70%–80% of cases. It starts in the milk ducts and invades surrounding breast tissue.

Symptoms: A lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, or dimpling of the skin.

Treatment: May include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.

3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

ILC starts in the lobules (milk-producing glands) and can spread to surrounding tissues and organs.

Symptoms: Thickening in the breast, subtle swelling, or changes in breast texture without a defined lump.

Treatment: Often involves surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation.

4. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

TNBC lacks the three most common receptors (oestrogen, progesterone, and HER2), making it more aggressive and harder to treat using hormone or HER2-targeted therapies.

Symptoms: Rapid growth, breast swelling, redness, and pain.

Treatment: Primarily chemotherapy and, in some cases, immunotherapy or clinical trials.

5. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

This type involves an overexpression of the HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth. It tends to be more aggressive but responds well to HER2-targeted therapies.

Treatment: Targeted therapies (like trastuzumab), chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

6. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

IBC is a rare and aggressive type of cancer where cancer cells block lymph vessels in the breast skin.

Symptoms: Swelling, redness, tenderness, and warmth—often without a lump. The breast may look inflamed or pitted like an orange peel.

Treatment: Chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiation. It requires immediate medical attention.

7. Paget’s Disease of the Breast

A rare form of breast cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and often indicates an underlying breast tumour.

Symptoms: Crusting, redness, or itching of the nipple or areola. May be mistaken for eczema.

Treatment: Surgery (often mastectomy), radiation, and possibly chemotherapy or hormone therapy depending on the underlying cancer.

8. Metastatic (Stage IV) Breast Cancer

This refers to breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body such as the lungs, bones, liver, or brain.

Symptoms: Vary depending on where the cancer has spread—bone pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or neurological symptoms.

Treatment: Focuses on prolonging life and improving quality of life through systemic therapies (chemo, hormone, targeted therapy) and palliative care.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

While breast cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk:

• Age (most common in women over 50)
• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Inherited gene mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2)
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Early menstruation or late menopause
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
• Alcohol consumption

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

• New lump in the breast or underarm
• Swelling or thickening in part of the breast
• Skin dimpling or irritation
• Nipple retraction or pain
• Discharge from the nipple (other than breast milk)
• Changes in breast size or shape

It’s important to note that not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any new change should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

Early detection improves outcomes. Diagnosis often involves:

• Mammogram: X-ray screening for abnormal growths.
• Ultrasound: Used to assess lumps or abnormalities found in a mammogram.
• Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for testing.
• MRI: Useful for high-risk patients or complex cases.

Staging of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer stages range from 0 to IV and are based on tumour size, lymph node involvement, and spread to distant organs.

• Stage 0: Non-invasive, such as DCIS
• Stage I: Small, invasive tumour, limited to the breast
• Stage II: Larger tumour and/or spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage III: More extensive lymph node involvement or tumour growth
• Stage IV: Metastatic cancer that has spread to other body parts

Treatment Options

Treatment is individualised based on the cancer type, stage, receptor status, and patient health. Common approaches include:

• Surgery: Lumpectomy (removing the tumour) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast)
• Radiation therapy: Often used after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells
• Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill rapidly dividing cancer cells
• Hormone therapy: For hormone receptor-positive cancers
• Targeted therapy: For HER2-positive cancers (e.g., trastuzumab)
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer (used in some TNBC cases)

Living with Breast Cancer

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming. Support is crucial. Consider these coping strategies:

• Join a support group (in person or online)
• Consult a counsellor or therapist
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle (diet, sleep, exercise)
• Stay informed and involved in treatment decisions

Internal Links to Related Topics

• What to Focus on After Breast Cancer Recovery
• Is IVF Treatment Costly? How Long Does It Take?
• Stigma and Mental Health: What’s the Link?
• What Is a Mental Breakdown?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most common type of breast cancer?

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type, accounting for up to 80% of breast cancer diagnoses.

Can men get breast cancer?

Yes, although rare. Men can develop breast cancer, and early detection is just as important.

Is breast cancer hereditary?

Some types, especially those linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, can be inherited. Genetic testing may be advised for high-risk individuals.

What are the survival rates?

When detected early (Stage I), the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. Prognosis depends on type, stage, and overall health.

Can breast cancer return after treatment?

Yes, recurrence is possible. Regular follow-ups, lifestyle changes, and medication may help reduce risk.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the various types of breast cancer is vital for timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and improved outcomes. Whether it’s a slow-growing DCIS or an aggressive triple-negative subtype, each form requires a personalised approach and emotional support.

If you notice any changes in your breasts, don’t ignore them. Early detection saves lives. Speak to your GP, get regular screenings, and stay informed about your risk factors. Knowledge and awareness are your strongest allies in the fight against breast cancer.