Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. These cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do and continue to accumulate, forming a lump or mass. Cells may spread (metastasize) through your breast to your lymph nodes or to other parts of your body.

In sub-Saharan Africa, preventing and treating breast cancer is a pressing public health issue.

Causes of breast cancer 

The exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood. However, there are certain factors known to increase the risk of breast cancer.

These include:

•  Age: The risk increases as you get older

• A family history of breast cancer

• A previous diagnosis of breast cancer

• A previous non-cancerous (benign) breast lump

• A being tall, overweight or obese

• A drinking alcohol

Signs and Symptoms of breast cancer 

Different people have different symptoms of breast cancer. Some people do not have any signs or symptoms at all.

Some warning signs of breast cancer are…

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).

• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.

• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.

• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.

• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.

• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood

• Pain in any area of the breast.

Diagnosis of breast cancer 

After examining your breasts, a GP may refer you to a specialist breast cancer clinic for further tests. This might include breast screening (mammography) or taking a small sample of breast tissue ( biopsy) to be examined under a microscope.

If cancer is detected at an early stage, it can be treated before it spreads to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer is treated using a combination of:

• Surgery

• Chemotherapy 

• Radiotherapy 

Prevention of breast cancer 

Factors that can help lower the risk of breast cancer by taking care of your health include 

• Keep a healthy weigh

• Be physically active 

• Choose not to drink alcohol or drink alcohol in moderation.

• Breakfasting your children 

• If you have a family history of breast cancer talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk.

Please if you’re feeling down or discharge with any form of sickness please kindly visit the hospital .