The breasts are very important part of the female body, as it is a powerful representation of motherhood, vitality and beauty. Little wonder it has been a matter of interest in medicine and feminine cosmetology. These precious jewels are without an iota of doubt deserving all the attention they get. Yet, In Nigeria, the risk of breast cancer in women has gradually appreciated from about 24.5 million in 1990 to 40 million in 2010 and were predicted to increase beyond 50 million in 2020.

These figures further emphasize the need for more awareness to be created to help women learn about the prevailing risk factors of breast cancer, how these factors can be reduced or modified, what symptoms women should be on high alert for, required screenings to be conducted on periodic basis and proper breast cancer care options available to be explored.

Today, we will be looking at these risk factors that predispose women to breast cancer and possible symptoms that could aid its early detection, as these would go a long way in curbing and reducing late presentation of breast cancer cases and even avoidable deaths resulting from them.

Risk factors for breast cancer

Risk factors are basically pointers to factors that increases a person’s chance of developing a disease, as in this case breast cancer. Having any of these does not decisively mean a woman will come down with breast cancer, rather it only shows increased predisposition to the disease. Some of which, are modifiable via lifestyle adjustments and others cannot be avoided.

The non-modifiable risk factors include:

Women over age 55.

Gender, surprised? Yes, men have cancer too. But, it is about 80 to 1 ratio of cases in women to men.

Menstruation before the age of 12 which is early increases risks also.

Close female relative who has had breast cancer provides an increased risk for developing the disease.

Late onset of menopause which is after age 55.

Women who have had breast cancer before also have increased risk.

Nulligravida; women who have never gotten pregnant before.

The modifiable risk factors include:

Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol.

Common symptoms seen in breast cancer

Breast lump or tissue thickening that has a distinct texture to surrounding tissue.

Discharge from nipple which is inconsistent with breastmilk, it may or may not be a bloody discharge.

Pain in the breast which may appear red with a pitted skin all over the breast.

A rapid change in the size or shape of the breast.

Nipple inversion.

Presence of lump or unusual swelling under the arm.

However, it is important you know that seeing any of these symptoms does not give a direct diagnosis of breast cancer, rather it only increases suspicion and prompts you to seek prompt medical consultation for proper management.

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