Breast cancer is a severe health disease that happens when the cells in the breast turn cancerous and grow abnormally. In most cases, this form of cancer spreads to other body parts, necessitating early diagnosis and treatment in the early stages to prevent metastasis. Knowing the different stages of this condition and its warning signs is crucial in preventing it or facilitating recovery. Continue reading to explore the stages and symptoms of breast cancer.

Stages

Breast cancer is divided into several stages depending on the severity of the disease. Understanding these stages helps healthcare professionals decide on the best course of treatment. A widely used staging scheme is TNM, which looks at the tumor’s size and the involvement of lymph nodes.

1. Stage 0 (DCIS/Ductal Carcinoma in situ) – In this initial stage, the abnormal cells are present in the breast duct’s lining but have not spread to adjacent tissues. DCIS is not invasive, and treatment in non-invasive stages generally prevents the progression of the condition to invasive cancer.
2. Stage I- It is characterized by a small tumor that has not spread beyond the breast. At this stage, lymph nodes are rarely affected.
3. Stage II- This stage is subdivided into IIA and IIB. IIA can contain a larger tumor with small groups of cancer cells in local lymph nodes, whereas IIB would have a bigger tumor with widespread involvement in the surrounding lymph nodes.
4. Stage III- Stage III, further divided into IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC, indicates more advanced involvement. IIIA represents a larger tumor with significant lymph node involvement, IIIB may be characterized by invasion of the nearby structures, and IIIC is characterized by extensive involvement.
5. Stage IV- The cancer has metastasized and invaded organs located beyond the breast and adjacent LNs such as bones, liver, lungs, or brain. In stage IV, breast cancer is referred to as advanced and requires long-term treatment that can be systemic.

Common symptoms

1. Lump or thickening- A thickening or lump in the breast tissue is the most common symptom. However, not all lumps can indicate cancer; some might be benign cysts or fibroadenomas.
2. Changes in breast size or shape – Unexplained enlargement or change in the shape of the breast should also be considered.
3. Nipple changes – Any change in the nipple, including inversion, secretion other than breast milk, or rash, should be checked out.
4. Skin changes- Sometimes, dimpling or changes in the skin texture, like the peel of an orange, may signify some underlying breast cancer.
5. Pain- Breast pain is not always indicative of anything detrimental like cancer. In cases where the breast becomes sore for no known reason and persists over time, one should consult a health expert to determine the underlying cause.
6. Redness or swelling- Breast or nipple redness or swelling could be symptoms of inflammation or infection, but those changes can also result from underlying malignancy.
7. Axillary lymph node changes- Breast self-exam or clinical examination indicates large lymph nodes in the armpit. It may imply metastasis of cancer.

Breast cancer is a multifaceted disease that demands a comprehensive understanding of its different stages and warning signs for effective management. Regular screenings, self-exams, and awareness of changes in breast health empower individuals to take charge of their well-being. If any symptoms or abnormalities are noticed, seeking prompt healthcare evaluation is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.