The cause of breast cancer is not yet fully understood. There may be certain factors that may lead to a higher risk of breast cancer in certain individuals. As women age, they may become more prone to developing breast cancer. A family history of breast cancer may play a role in increasing the risk of breast cancer as well.

Post-menopausal hormone therapy may also increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Extra body fat, an inactive lifestyle and alcohol consumption may also increase the risk of breast cancer.

Symptoms of breast cancer may include a lump or thickening in the breast, a clear or bloody discharge from the nipple and scaly skin around the nipple. The breast may also appear dimply and may change in size and shape.

Breast cancer may not be limited to women, as men may develop breast cancer as well. A doctor can examine any lumps on men or women to determine if it may be breast cancer. The doctor may conduct a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast, to detect any lumps. Self-examination may also be an effective way of finding lumps. If lumps are present, the doctor may perform a biopsy to determine if they may be cancerous.

Depending on the type of cancer and the stage of cancer, surgery may be performed to remove the cancerous part of the breast or the entire breast. After surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be administered to kill cancer cells. Other treatments may be used as well. Detecting breast cancer early may greatly increase the chances of effectively removing the cancer and may allow for a less invasive treatment.

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