Breast cancer begins in the breast tissue and is
most commonly associated with women, although
on rare occasions, men can develop it.
There are several types of breast tumors. Most are
benign, which means they are not cancer. These lumps
are often fibrocystic; fibrosis referring to connective
tissue formation; cysts referring to fluid-filled
sacs. Fibrocystic breasts may feel lumpy and have
a slight nipple discharge. They are abnormal growths,
but they do not spread outside of the breast and
they are not life threatening.
Four of the most common types of breast cancer are
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), Ductal carcinoma
in situ (DCIS), Infiltrating (invasive) lobular carcinoma
(ILC), and Infiltrating (invasive) ductal carcinoma
(IDC). IDC is the most common type of breast cancer;
it accounts for nearly 80% of occurrence.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women,
other than skin cancer. In all women, it is the second
leading cause of cancer death in women after lung
cancer. And in women aged 40-55, breast cancer is
the leading cause of cancer death.
Source: American Cancer Society
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