Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It is often discovered when a person finds a lump in their breast, but it can also be detected through routine screenings before a lump is noticeable. Breast cancer is more common in women, but men can get it too. It can also run in families. If you find a lump in your breast, see your doctor or nurse immediately as long as the majority of breast cancer cases are invasive, meaning the tumor can spread from the breast to other parts of the body. While lumps can be caused by non-cancerous conditions, it is important to get them checked by your healthcare provider.

ANATOMY OF THE BREAST

The breast consists of different parts called lobes, ducts, nipples, fats, muscles, and the lymphatic system. Each breast has 15 to 20 lobes where breast milk is produced. Lobes are all connected by thin tubes called ducts towards the breast nipple. Each breast also contains blood vessels and lymph vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph. These vessels transport lymph to lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped structures throughout the body. Lymph nodes are found near the breast, under the arm, above the collarbone, and in the chest. The breast doesn’t have bones, it has fats and muscles which give it its shape.