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Breast Cancer

What you need to know about the most common cancer in women.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in breast tissue and is the most common cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in life. It also occurs, more rarely, in men.

Most breast cancers arise from the milk ducts (ductal) or the milk-producing lobules (lobular). Early-stage disease often has no symptoms, which is why screening mammography is so important. Once diagnosed, tumour size, stage and biology guide treatment.

Modern treatment achieves a five-year survival of more than 90% in early-stage breast cancer. Annual mammography from age 40 and monthly self-examination are strongly recommended.

Symptoms

A palpable lump or hard area in the breast
Skin changes — orange-peel appearance or redness
Nipple retraction or discharge
Swelling in the breast or armpit
Change in the size or shape of the breast
Skin dimpling or thickening
Pain in the breast or nipple (not always cancer)

Risk Factors

Female sex and older age
First-degree relative with breast cancer
BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations
Early menarche (before age 12) or late menopause
Nulliparity or late first childbirth
Long-term hormone replacement therapy
Obesity and alcohol consumption

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Any new breast lump or hard area
  • Bloody or unusual nipple discharge
  • Orange-peel appearance, redness or swelling of the breast skin
  • A lump or swelling in the armpit
  • From age 40 for screening mammography
  • Genetic counselling and earlier screening if there is a strong family history

Treatment Methods

01
Surgery: lumpectomy (tumour area) or mastectomy (whole breast)
02
Chemotherapy: systemic therapy before or after surgery
03
Radiotherapy: especially after breast-conserving surgery
04
Hormonal therapy: tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors in oestrogen-receptor-positive tumours
05
Targeted therapy: trastuzumab (Herceptin) and similar agents in HER2-positive tumours
06
Immunotherapy: checkpoint inhibitors in triple-negative breast cancer

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.