Breast cancer develops in the cells of the breast, most commonly in the ducts (which carry milk to the nipple) or the lobules (which produce milk). It occurs when abnormal cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It can spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
Symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, or changes in the skin over the breast. Risk factors include age, family history, genetic, hormone exposure, and lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption and obesity.
Treatment depends on the type and stage of breast cancer and may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapies.
How many people have breast cancer?
Globally, approximately 685,000 women die from breast cancer each year, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. In Kenya and Nigeria, breast cancer is one of the leading cancers among women. A major issue is late-stage diagnosis, largely due to limited awareness, non-professional screening, and barriers to healthcare access.
Nigeria has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in Sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya faces similar challenges, where many women present at late stages of the disease, leading to poor outcomes. Over 70% of breast cancer patients in Kenya are diagnosed at an advanced stage, contributing to a high mortality rate. The exact number of deaths annually isn't consistently reported, but like Nigeria, the country struggles with delays in diagnosis and limited access to treatment.
Efforts are underway to improve awareness, early detection, and access to treatment in both countries, but significant gaps remain in healthcare infrastructure and cancer management.
What to do to deal with the breast cancer?
While it's impossible to fully prevent breast cancer, there are several lifestyle and medical steps that can help reduce your risk:
❥ Regular screenings
Routine mammograms and self-examinations can catch breast cancer early when it's most treatable. Women at higher risk (due to family history or genetic mutations) may need earlier or more frequent screenings.
❥ Limit hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, especially combined estrogen-progesterone therapy, is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. If you need HRT for menopause symptoms, consult your doctor about the lowest dose possible for the shortest time.
❥ Genetic testing and preventive measures
For women with a strong family history or genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), doctors may recommend genetic testing. Preventive surgery (mastectomy) or medications can significantly reduce the risk in high-risk women.
❥ Healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of breast cancer. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help regulate hormone levels and boost the immune system, both of which are important for preventing cancer. Limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, and minimizing the use of hormone replacement therapy also lower the risk.
What is important?
It is important to remember that the earlier the stage of cancer, the easier it is to treat! So it is better to perform a self-check once in a while (you can find plenty of instructions on the internet!) and do a screening regularly (especially if you are over 40)!
Also, please do not hesitate to share the information about the breast cancer with your friends and relatives!