Breast Cancer Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment: What You Should Know
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Hearing the words “you might have breast cancer” is one of the most overwhelming moments in a woman’s life. For many, it may start with noticing a small lump, a change in shape, or swelling, or a persistent pain that just feels “different.” The uncertainty, anxiety, and fear that follow can feel paralysing. Breast cancer not only affects the body but affects a woman’s emotional health, family life, daily routines, and way of life. With tools like Cellmaflex, managing health has become far more convenient. Women no longer need to wait endlessly on phone lines to book medical appointments. Instead, they can easily book an appointment online, access their medical record whenever they want, and search a doctor, pharmacy, lab, or imaging centre in their area in a matter of seconds. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about breast cancer, what is it, types, causes, breast cancer symptoms, complications, diagnosis, treatment, and how Cellmaflex helps promote better access to healthcare services and monitoring for patients. What Is Breast Cancer? Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells begin growing uncontrollably, forming a tumour. These tumours may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumours can invade surrounding tissues and may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if untreated. Recognising breast cancer symptoms early plays a pivotal role in stopping the disease from progressing. Cellmaflex plays a supportive role here by allowing women to keep a digital record of their medical history, imaging, and test results, making it easier for both patients and doctors to identify changes in breast health over time. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. In 2022, there were an estimated 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 670,000 deaths globally. Early detection saves lives, and while this is true for many women, many still wait to seek medical help until the symptoms of breast cancer have progressed. This often complicates treatment and worsens outcomes for women. Caribbean & Trinidad & Tobago Breast Cancer Statistics Statistic Detail Breast cancer is the leading cancer overall in Trinidad & Tobago Of 3,095 registered breast cancer cases in that period, it accounted for 17.6% of all cancers, and among women, it accounted for 33.1%. Incidence & mortality rates in T&T For women, the age-standardized incidence rate for breast cancer is 46.6 per 100,000; representing ~31.6% of female cancer cases. Survival rate in T&T The 5-year breast cancer survival rate is about 74.3%, with a recurrence-free survival rate of 56.4%. Trends in Jamaica In Jamaica, breast cancer made up more than one out of every three cancer diagnoses in women; ~1,208 new cases in 2020 (up from 974 in 2018). Mortality in Jamaica The death rate from breast cancer has increased from about 56.8 to 66.9 per 100,000 women over recent years. The case fatality (percentage of diagnosed women who die) ranges between 41% to 51%. Incidence & mortality across Caribbean countries • Haiti: incidence ~22/100,000; mortality ~11.5/100,000. • Bahamas: incidence ~98.9/100,000; mortality ~26.3/100,000. Age of peak incidence In most Caribbean countries, peak incidence of breast cancer is in the 65-69 age group, or sometimes later (70-74). Some countries have secondary peaks under age 60. Breast cancer types 1. Non-invasive (in situ) cancers The most common is ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), where there are abnormal cells in the lining of a breast duct, but it does not spread to the tissue nearby. DCIS is not life-threatening in the immediate sense, but it can lead to an increased risk of invasive breast cancer later. 2. Invasive cancers Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): The most common form of breast cancer. Starting in milk ducts then invading surrounding breast tissue. Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): Begins in lobules (glands that produce milk), often grows in a less defined pattern making it more difficult to identify. 3. Other types There are some rare but aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer – which causes red and inflamed tissue – and triple-negative breast cancer, which does not respond to hormonal therapies, which usually require chemotherapy. Causes & Risks Although there are multiple risk factors that increase the risk of breast cancer, the cause is often not clear. Age: More common among women aged over 50. Genetics: Hereditary mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 greatly increase susceptibility. Lifestyle factors: Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Hormonal influences: Early menstruation, late menopause, and long-term hormone replacement therapy. Cellmaflex can help women at higher risk by making it easier to schedule regular screenings, track family history, and access imaging or lab test results in one place. Breast Cancer Symptoms Recognising breast cancer symptoms early is essential. Signs include: A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm. Changes in breast size or shape. Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or swelling. Nipple discharge (other than breast milk) or inversion. Persistent pain in one part of the breast. Should you observe any of the breast cancer symptoms it would be judicious to reach out to your healthcare provider promptly. Cellmaflex can help you with this process by allowing you to book your appointment online and find the closest imaging centre for your mammogram or ultrasound. Complications When breast cancer is untreated, it can cause significant complications, such as: Bone metastases – leading to fractures, pain, and restricted movement. (Metastases: are secondary tumors formed by the spread of cancer cells from a primary tumor to a distant part of the body through the bloodstream or lymph system.) Metastasis to the liver – jaundice (yellow eyes/skin), or abdominal swelling, and liver failure. Metastasis to the lung – chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Brain metastases – causing headaches, seizures, changes in vision, or neurological deficits. Recognising breast cancer symptoms early and obtaining medical care as soon as possible is important for preventing the above complications. Diagnosis Early
