October marks Breast Cancer Awareness month. The National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), a member of the SingHealth group, shares the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Singapore - with up to 1 in 13 developing breast cancer by the age of 75.
How breast cancer occurs
Breast cancer occurs when breast cells become abnormal and divide without control or order. The majority of breast cancers start in the milk ducts. Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the underarms and other parts of the body such as the bones, lungs and liver.
Read more: What is preventive mastectomy and when is it advisable?
Risk factors for breast cancer
Having one or more close relative(s) with breast cancer, e.g. mother, sister, aunt or grandmother
Personal history of breast cancer
Early menstruation, i.e. before the age of 12
Having the first child after the age of 30
Regular consumption of alcohol
Women on long-term use of combined hormone replacement therapy
Read more:
7 Tips for good breast health
Symptoms of breast cancer
These symptoms may be caused by a number of problems and may not indicate the presence of breast cancer. But
if any of these breast cancer symptoms persists or is bothering you,
do consult your doctor.
- A lump or thickening in the breast
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- A change in the colour or feel of the skin of the breast, areola or nipple
- Bloodstained discharge from the nipple
- Persistent rash on the nipple and / or areola
- A recently retracted or inverted nipple
Read more: Prevention tips against the number one cancer in Singapore
ASK OUR SPECIALIST: Got a question about breast cancer? Hit
this link to ask our Consultant from the National Cancer Centre Singapore. This forum is open till 28 Oct 2020.
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