Breast Structure and Function Breast tissue is a complex network of lobules, lobes and ducts. Its main function is breastfeeding. The breast goes through many changes over a woman’s life due to hormonal changes, however, most of these changes are benign. What is Breast Cancer? A type of cancer begins in the breast, occurs as a result of abnormal cells that continuously grow out of control leading to form tumors in the breast. There are different types of breast cancers, depending on which cells turned into tumor. Breast cancer can spread affecting other organs and areas in the body. |
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Breast Cancer Facts and Statistics Globally 2022
Abu Dhabi Emirate 2023
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Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
- Aging
- Personal or family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer
- Inherited breast cancer genes BRCA1 OR BRCA2
- Dense breast
- Previous biopsy shows hyperplasia or carcinoma in situ
- Never gave birth or having first child after age of 35 years
- Not adopting breastfeeding
- Current or recent use of combined estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Long-term use of birth control pill
- Unhealthy lifestyle: inactivity, smoking, alcohol consumption, overweight or obesity, unhealthy diet
Most people don’t experience any symptoms when the cancer is still at an early stage and usually appears when the disease is more advanced.
Symptoms Include:
- A breast lump or thickening, often without pain.
- Change in size, shape or appearance of the breast.
- Dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin.
- Change in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple (areola).
- Abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple.
It’s important to seek medical care when abnormal changes or breast lumps are noticed, even if causes no pain.
Ways to reduce the risk
- Breastfeeding.
- Avoid hormones as much as possible.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
- Regular screening.
Regular Screening & Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Through regular screening, breast cancer can be found at an early stage, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing mortality.
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Breast self-examination
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2. Clinical Breast Exam (CE):
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3. Mammography: |
Breast cancer screening services available through
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To download the Educational Materials:
Awareness Presentation – Arabic
Awareness Presentation - English