Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer worldwide. The condition occurs when the cells in the breast mutate and grow out of control. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 2.3 million new breast cancer cases were diagnosed in 2020, making it the most common cancer among women. In the country, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women in 2021, and about 2,650 new cases were diagnosed in men.

What are the leading causes of breast cancer?
Although the specific causes of breast cancer are unclear, various factors can make somebody more likely to develop it. These include:

• Gender
  Women are much more likely to develop breast cancer than men.
• Age
  As a person ages, their chance of breast cancer rises.
• Family history
  A person’s risk is higher if their mother, sister, or daughter has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Genetic mutations
  Certain mutations in genes like BRCA1 or BRCA2 can increase a person’s risk of breast cancer.
• Hormonal factors
  Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can promote the growth of breast cancer cells.

What are breast cancer’s warning signs and symptoms?
Breast cancer symptoms and indicators might include:

• A bulge or thickening under the arms or in the breast region
• Swelling or warmth in the breast
• Nipple changes, such as discharge or inversion
• Skin changes, such as redness or dimpling
• Breast pain or discomfort

What are the treatment methods for breast cancer?
The main treatment methods for breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

• Surgery
  Surgery is frequently the first course of action when treating breast cancer. The goal of surgery is to eradicate the cancerous cells. The two main surgical procedures are mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy). A lumpectomy removes only the cancerous tissue and some surrounding tissue, while a mastectomy removes the entire breast.
• Radiation therapy
  High-energy radiation eliminates cancer cells in this type of treatment used after surgery. It can destroy cancer cells that may still be present and lower the likelihood of cancer recurrence.
• Chemotherapy
  This option is frequently utilized before or after surgery to diminish the tumor and eradicate any cancer cells that may still be present. The adverse effects of chemotherapy can include fatigue, nausea, and hair diminution.
• Hormonal therapy
  This option blocks the effects of hormones (such as estrogen and progesterone) that can promote the growth of some types of breast cancer. Hormonal treatment can be administered orally or intravenously.
• Targeted therapy
  Targeted therapy target specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells. These prescriptions can be used to treat certain types of breast cancer that are more aggressive.
• Immunotherapy
  Immunotherapy supports the body’s defense system against cancer.

How to lead a healthy life to prevent breast cancer?
No natural remedies for breast cancer have been scientifically proven to be effective. However, some complementary therapies, like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, can help patients feel more relaxed and enjoy a better quality of life.

Foods to eat
Some foods that help with breast cancer:

• Fruits and vegetables – Apples, berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes
• Whole grains – Oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread
• Lean protein sources – Fish, poultry, beans, and lentils
• Healthy fats -Nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil