Causes of Breast Cancer

A Guide for Understanding Breast Cancer Growth

The journey with breast cancer often brings up questions about how and why it spreads. While much about cancer remains a mystery, we do understand some key ways it can grow and progress. This knowledge is empowering, as it helps us navigate treatment options and take proactive steps toward healing.

‍

How it Starts: Damaged Cells Multiply

Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells, each with its own set of instructions (DNA). Sometimes, these instructions get damaged, leading to abnormal cell growth. In breast cancer, these rogue cells multiply rapidly, forming a tumor. It's like a group of cells going off-script, ignoring the body's usual signals to stop growing.

‍

How it Spreads: Accelerated Growth

Certain natural substances in our bodies, like estrogen and progesterone (hormones), can actually accelerate the growth of some breast cancers. These hormones aren't the cause of cancer, but they can act like fuel for tumors that have the right "receptors" (think of them like docking stations) for these hormones.

Another factor is the HER2 gene, which plays a role in cell growth. When this gene malfunctions, it can lead to excessive HER2 protein, supercharging cell division and tumor growth. Understanding these factors helps doctors tailor treatments, like therapies that block hormone receptors or target the HER2 protein.

‍

How it Spreads: Cancer's Pathways in the Body

Cancer can spread in two main ways:

• Lymph System: This network of vessels and nodes acts like the body's drainage system, helping to remove waste and fight infection. Cancer cells can sometimes enter the lymph system and travel to nearby lymph nodes. Doctors often examine these nodes to determine how far the cancer has spread.
• Bloodstream: In some cases, cancer cells can also enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, like the bones, liver, or lungs. This is called metastasis.  Pathologists look for signs of blood or lymph vessels within the tumor, which can indicate a higher risk of spread.

‍

What Does This Mean for You?

Understanding how cancer grows helps you and your doctors make informed decisions about treatment. There are therapies designed to block hormone receptors, target HER2-positive cancers, and even boost your immune system's ability to fight cancer cells.

‍

A Reason for Hope

Advances in research are constantly improving our understanding of cancer and expanding treatment options. While the journey can be challenging, knowledge, support, and a positive outlook are powerful tools on the path to healing.

‍

Remember: You're not alone. Your healthcare team is there to guide you through every step, answering your questions and providing the support you need.  Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for clarification on anything you don't understand.

‍