|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Summary
Breast cancer can significantly impact a woman’s daily life and challenge her sense of identity. Early detection through regular breast examinations is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.
October is breast cancer awareness month, with the 13th day marking the No Bra Day. The day encourages women to embrace their bodies and engage in breast self-examination, which can help with the early detection of breast cancer.
A recent qualitative study conducted by gerontology and public health researchers explored the experiences of female cancer survivors in Nigeria, focusing on 30 women in Abuja—29 with breast cancer and one with skin cancer. The participants, aged 29 to 55, were recruited through a psycho-social support organisation, enabling them to share their experiences comfortably. Three key findings emerged: cancer can be stigmatising, women made sense of their experience in diverse ways and identifying as a cancer survivor can be empowering.
Breast cancer can influence a woman’s daily life, with its effects varying widely depending on the stage of the disease and the type of treatment she receives. Research shows that women with breast cancer respond to their diagnosis in diverse ways, and these reactions influence their coping strategies and treatment choices. The disease is often seen as a major threat to not only a woman’s life but also to her sense of femalehood. The emotional and psychological effects of the disease can impact how women view themselves, making the journey through diagnosis and treatment a challenging and complex experience that goes beyond just physical health.
Breast cancer is a condition where abnormal breast cells multiply uncontrollably, forming tumours that can potentially spread to other parts of the body if left unchecked. Although breast cancer is much more common in women, breast cancer affects men too. Women are the most significant risk factor for breast cancer, with approximately 99% of cases occurring in women and only 0.5–1% in men.
Also, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 670,000 deaths were recorded globally in 2022. Global estimates show significant disparities in breast cancer rates based on human development. In countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI) like Switzerland, Ireland, Germany, and Canada, 1 in 12 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 1 in 71 women will die from it. In countries with low HDI, like Sierra Leone, Mozambique, and Madagascar, only 1 in 27 women is diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and 1 in 48 women will die from it.
In 2020, Nigeria recorded approximately 124,815 new cancer cases and 78,899 cancer-related deaths, primarily due to breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. Projections indicate that the country will see a rise in cancer incidence by 2040.
Causes and symptoms
Several factors, such as increasing age, obesity, harmful use of alcohol, history of radiation exposure, reproductive history), tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy, can elevate the risk of developing breast cancer. While a family history of breast cancer can increase the risk, the surprising fact is that most women diagnosed don’t have a known family link to the disease. So, even without a family history, it’s important to remember that no one is entirely risk-free. Inherited mutations in high-penetrance genes, especially BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2, increase the risk of breast cancer. Women with these mutations may consider risk-reduction strategies, such as preventive mastectomy or chemoprevention.
Did you know that most people don’t show any symptoms in the early stages of cancer? This fact shows the importance of early detection. Catching it early can make all the difference! Breast cancer can manifest through a range of symptoms, particularly in its more advanced stages. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
- a breast lump or thickening, often without pain
- change in size, shape or appearance of the breast
- dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin
- change in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple (areola)
- abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple.
Typically, the first noticeable sign of breast cancer spreading is to the lymph nodes under the arm. However, it’s important to note that cancerous lymph nodes can exist even when they are not detectable by touch. Most breast lumps are benign, and cancerous lumps are more treatable when they are small and have not spread to nearby lymph nodes. Breast cancer may spread to other areas of the body and trigger other symptoms.
Treatment
Breast cancer treatment depends on the size and type of cancer, its location, whether it has spread to other parts of the body, and overall health or well-being. When it comes to treating breast cancer in women, surgery often takes centre stage. Other effective treatments are chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and advanced options like targeted medicines and immunotherapy. Each treatment plays a crucial role in the journey toward recovery, offering hope and tailored solutions for every woman.
Ultimately, breast cancer diagnosis can be scary and may challenge a woman’s sense of self, it’s important to hold onto hope and resilience. Many women have faced breast cancer and come out stronger, supported by loved ones and advancements in treatment. Women can navigate this journey with courage by prioritising their health, seeking support, and staying informed.
