When we hear the word "cancer," many of us are filled with fear. Among them, when we hear the word breast cancer, our women are especially worried. But fear is not the best solution. Instead, understanding and being aware of this is the best way to protect ourselves. So today, let's talk about breast cancer in a very simple and friendly way.
Is breast cancer the same for everyone? Or are there different types?
No. Strictly speaking, not everyone develops breast cancer the same way. There are different types, or subtypes, of breast cancer. Doctors classify these types based on whether or not they have certain proteins (receptors) that help the cancer cells grow. Simply put, some cancer cells are like hungry little kids. They need things like hormones in our bodies as "food" to grow.
There are two main types of receptors:
1. Hormone receptors (HR): These are the female hormones estrogen and progesterone . If these receptors are present on cancer cells, these hormones help the cancer grow.
2. HER2 receptor: This is another protein called `(Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2).` If this is overexpressed on cancer cells, the cancer can grow rapidly.
Cancers are divided into several types based on whether or not they have these receptors. Let's look at the main types.
| Cancer subtype | Simple explanation |
|---|---|
| HR+/HER2- (Luminal A) | This is the most common type. It has hormone receptors (HR), but does not have the HER2 receptor. It responds well to hormonal therapy, so the cure rate is relatively high. |
| HR+/HER2+ (Luminal B) | It has both hormone receptors and HER2 receptors. This type can grow a little faster. |
| HR-/HER2+ | It doesn't have hormone receptors, but it does have the HER2 receptor. HER2-targeted therapy is very effective for this. |
| Triple-Negative (TNBC) | This is the more aggressive type. Because it lacks all three receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2, it cannot be treated with hormone therapy or HER2-targeted therapy. Chemotherapy is the main treatment. This type is most often seen in young women. |
How do genes affect cancer?
Some people think, "No one in my generation had it, so there's no way I could develop it." But that's not entirely true. However, there is also a genetic influence that comes from generation to generation.
There are special genes in our body that control how cells divide. If there is a mutation in these genes, cells can start dividing uncontrollably and develop cancer. The most well-known genes linked to breast cancer are BRCA1 and BRCA2 . A woman with a mutation in these genes is at a much higher risk of developing breast cancer (and ovarian cancer) than others.
The important thing is that any woman can develop breast cancer, whether she has a BRCA mutation or not. If someone in your family has had breast cancer at a young age, it is wise to talk to your doctor about whether or not to have genetic testing.
In addition, research is being conducted on a number of other genes, such as `TP53` and `PALB2`. As science advances, we will be able to find the best treatments for these.
Does our lifestyle affect risk?
Yes, absolutely. Not only genes, but our lifestyle also has a big impact on the risk of breast cancer. Some studies have shown that the risk of cancer increases when we adopt the lifestyle of developed countries. There are several reasons for this.
- Obesity: When body fat increases, especially after menopause, estrogen levels increase. This is a risk factor for HR+ cancers.
- Unhealthy diet: Eating a diet high in processed foods, red meat, sugar, and fat increases your risk. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of cancer .
- Lack of exercise: People who lead a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk than those who lead an active lifestyle.
- Not breastfeeding: There is clear evidence that breastfeeding reduces the mother's risk of breast cancer.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption is also a major factor that increases the risk of breast cancer .
Why is early detection a life-saving factor?
The most important message in this article may be this: No matter how serious breast cancer is, it can be almost completely cured if detected early . It is only when it is delayed that the situation worsens.
Imagine, if cancer is detected at an early stage, when it is confined to the breast (local stage), the 5-year survival rate is more than 95% . That means 95 out of 100 people will survive well.
However, if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes (regional stage), this percentage is about 85%. Unfortunately, if the cancer is diagnosed after it has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, and brain (distant stage), this percentage drops to as low as 30%.
Do you understand the difference? Early detection can mean the difference between recovery and death.
So why do we delay? Sometimes, out of fear, embarrassment, thinking, "It's just a small lump, it'll get better on its own," or out of ignorance, we delay seeing a doctor. That's the biggest mistake we make.
What should you do?
- Self-Breast Exam: Check your breasts at least once a month. Pay attention immediately if you notice a lump, skin change, change in shape, or discharge from the nipple.
- See your doctor: If you are over 40 and have no symptoms, talk to your doctor and get a mammogram if necessary. A mammogram can detect even small lumps that we can't feel.
- Don't panic: Don't panic and hide if you notice any changes. Not all lumps in the breast are cancerous. But a doctor should decide whether it is cancerous or not. So if you have even the slightest doubt, see your doctor immediately.
Treatment options are now very advanced. There are many options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Your doctor will determine the best treatment for you. The most important thing is not to delay treatment.
Take-Home Message
- Breast cancer is not something to be afraid of and hide from, but something to be aware of and face.
- There are different types of cancer, so treatment can vary from person to person.
- Even though there is a genetic influence, our lifestyle (diet, exercise) can reduce the risk.
- Early detection is the key to saving lives. If detected early, the chances of recovery are very high.
- If you notice any changes in your breasts (a lump, a change in the skin), don't panic and don't delay, see your doctor immediately.
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