What Causes Breast Tumours?

Breast tumours are growths of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A lump in the breast is a cause for concern but not all breast tumors are breast cancer. Cysts fibroadenomas hormonal changes and other benign breast disorders are the cause of many breast lumps.

At JJ Aesthetics we believe that knowing the potential causes warning symptoms and risk factors of breast cancer can help women make more informed decisions regarding their breast health. Any new breast lump must never be ignored even if it is not painful. Using the right clinical evaluation and possibly imaging or biopsy when required can aid in identifying its exact nature. Read about What Causes Breast Tumours? By continuing reading.

What is a Breast Tumour?

A breast tumour is an accumulation or growth of abnormal cells in the tissue of the breast. Tumours are the result of cells multiplying in an abnormal or uncontrolled way. There are two main types of breast tumour:

• Benign breast tumours.
• Breast tumours.

Causes of Breast Tumors:

Not all breast tumours are caused by the same thing. There are many different reasons for the formation of various types of tumour. In many instances several factors including genetic hormonal aging lifestyle and environmental factors can actually play a role in the abnormal growth of breast cells.

Mutations of Breast Cells:

One of the primary factors behind tumor formation is a change in the genetic makeup of breast cells. Normally genes regulate when cells grow, divide , repair themselves and die.In some cases abnormal genes disrupt the normal regulation of cell division causing cells to multiply when they don’t need to. As the time goes by abnormal cells can build up resulting in a tumour.

Family History of Breast Cancer:

The presence of a family history of breast cancer especially if it has occurred at a young age or several family members have had cancer of the breast or related organs/cancer types.

Genetic mutations passed down from parents that have been associated with higher risk of developing breast cancer include genetic mutations in ‘BRCA1′ and ‘BRCA2′. There are other inherited disorders and genetic differences as well.

Hormonal Influences:

Breast tissue is affected by hormones especially estrogen and progesterone throughout a woman’s life. Breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal fluctuations that occur during puberty menstruation pregnancy breastfeeding and menopause. Some women may have a higher or lower risk of breast cancer due to long-term exposure to some hormones.

Age and Breast Tissue Changes:

Age is an important risk factor for breast cancer. In older women genetic changes can occur in the cells which may lead to abnormal growth of cells. Benign breast disease can happen at any age and the risk of developing malignant breast tumours is higher as a person gets older. That is why it’s important to get age-appropriate breast screening.

Benign Breast Conditions:

There are some breast lumps that are not cancerous. There are several benign conditions that have registered masses in the breast that are noticeable. Common examples include:

• Fibroadenoma.
• Breast cysts.
• Fibrocystic breast changes.
• Lipoma.
• Intraductal papilloma.
• Other harmless non-cancerous breast changes.

Are Breast Lumps Caused by Hormonal Changes?

Hormonal changes can be responsible for breast lumps and changes in breast tissue. The breasts can get swollen, tender and lumpy as a result of changes in hormones throughout the menstrual cycle. Breast tissue changes can also be caused by pregnancy breastfeeding perimenopause and some hormonal medications.

Breast Cancer Risk Factors:

There are a few things that can make it more likely you’ll get a cancerous breast tumor. Some are unalterable others might be affected by medical decisions or lifestyle. Risk factors may include:

• Increasing age.
• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
• Some genetic mutations that are passed down.
• Previous breast cancer.
• Some breast tissue growth abnormalities.
• Exposure to some forms of radiation.
• Hormones and reproductive issues.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Physical inactivity.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean that cancer will definitely develop. Likewise women with little or no known risk factors may develop breast cancer.

Diagnosis of Breast Tumours:

Diagnosis typically starts with a medical history and physical exam. The clinician might ask the patient when the lump appeared if there have been any changes in the size of the lump if the patient has experienced pain nipple discharge or a family history of breast cancer. Additional testing might include:

• Breast Ultrasound.
• Mammography.
• Breast MRI.
• Biopsy.

When to See a Doctor for a Breast Lump?

New hard or unexplained breast lumps should be investigated. Seek evaluation especially if changes occur in the nipple unusual discharge swelling in the armpit or significant changes in the breast occur with the lump.

The hardness, softness, pain, and mobility of a breast lump do not indicate whether the lump is cancerous or not and should never guide a diagnosis. There are some features that may give clues to diagnosis but don’t confirm it.

Can Breast Tumours Be Prevented? 

However not all breast tumours can be prevented as some of the risk factors for breast cancer cannot be modified such as ageing and inherited changes in the genes. But a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, drinking alcohol in moderation, maintaining healthy weight, personal and family history awareness and breast screening can help keep the breast healthy.

Why Breast Health Awareness Matters ?

People need to understand what causes breast tumours so that there is not so much fear and at the same time it should prompt women to pay attention to unusual changes in their breast. While most breast lumps are not cancer, a professional must evaluate to make the distinction between a benign breast condition and potentially a malignant breast tumour. Patients may detect changes earlier if they are aware of their breasts and are undergoing screening as recommended by age.

Final Thoughts:

Breast health should be taken seriously and at JJ Aesthetics the Best Clinic for Women Health we strongly recommend that women consult a doctor if they experience any changes in their breasts which are new or persistent. The thorough evaluation by a professional appropriate imaging and biopsy as needed can help make a more accurate diagnosis and guide decision making for further action.

If you observe a new breast lump nipple change, odd discharge skin dimpling or another chronic breast alteration consult a certified healthcare expert before attempting to self-diagnose the condition. If you want to know more on What Causes Breast Tumours? Then you can get the consultation.