What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow in an uncontrolled way. These cells can form a lump or tumour, and in some cases, may spread to other parts of the body. Most breast cancers start in the ducts (which carry milk to the nipple) or the lobules (the glands that make milk).
There are several types of breast cancer, and it can affect both women and men—though it's much more common in women. Early detection is key, as breast cancer found at an earlier stage is often easier to treat and has a better outlook.
Should I Consider Genetic Breast Cancer Testing?
If you have a family history of breast cancer, or related cancers such as breast, bowel, or prostate cancer, you may want to consider genetic testing. Certain inherited changes (mutations) in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and others can significantly raise the risk of developing breast cancer. Testing can help you understand whether you carry one of these genetic changes, offering important information for your future health and for your family.
You might be at higher risk if you have two or more close relatives who have had breast cancer, if you or a family member were diagnosed at a younger age (under 50), or if you have a known inherited mutation in your family. People of certain ethnic backgrounds, such as those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, are particularly at higher risk — around 1 in 40 people in this group carry a BRCA mutation, compared to about 1 in 400 in the general population. Knowing your genetic status can open up options for early monitoring, preventative treatments, or risk-reducing surgery.
What are the Symptoms?
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest, or armpit
- Change in the size or shape of the breast
- Skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, or redness
- A rash or crusting around the nipple
- Nipple discharge (that’s not breast milk)
- Nipple turning inwards (inversion)
- Pain in the breast or armpit
- A change in the appearance or feel of the nipple or breast
Not all lumps are cancerous, but it’s important to get any changes checked by a doctor. Early detection can make a big difference.
What are the causes?
Breast cancer can be caused by a combination of factors. These include age (risk increases as you get older), hormonal factors, lifestyle choices, and exposure to certain environmental risks. However, in many cases, there’s no single known cause. Around 5–10% of breast cancers are due to inherited genetic changes. If you have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, you may carry a variant in a gene such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or PALB2, which can significantly increase your risk. Genetic testing can help identify this inherited risk and guide decisions around screening and prevention.
What other tests are available?
The most common test for detecting breast cancer is a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast. It can pick up changes in breast tissue before a lump can be felt. In the UK, women aged 50 to 70 are routinely invited for NHS breast screening every three years, although younger women at high risk may be offered screening earlier.Other tests include ultrasound scans, breast MRI, and biopsies—where a small sample of tissue is taken to be examined under a microscope. If you’re concerned about inherited risk, genetic testing can look for gene variants linked to breast cancer and help you understand your long-term risk.
How is it treated?
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type, stage, and whether the cancer has spread. Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancer, radiotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells, and chemotherapy to target cancer throughout the body. Some women may also be offered hormone therapy or targeted therapy, depending on the cancer's characteristics.
In cases of hereditary breast cancer, treatment plans may also include discussions around preventative options, such as risk-reducing surgery (e.g. double mastectomy), particularly if a high-risk gene is involved. Your care team will work with you to choose the best treatment approach for your situation, focusing on both effectiveness and quality of life.






























































