Breast cancer is ranked as the second cause of cancer deaths in women from lung cancer which tops the list.

And although men also suffer from breast cancer, being a woman is among the top risks of getting the disease.

Breast cancer has no specific causes and there is no known prevention measures. However, there are risk factors that one can work on to reduce the chances of getting the disease.

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Check out these things you need to be aware of about breast cancer:

Younger women get it too

Breast cancer is no longer an old women disease. Younger women in their 20s and 30s are also getting breast cancer. Always be on the lookout for any strange changes on your breasts and see a doctor if it raises concern.

Genetics matter

You need to know your family health background for you to know if you are at a risk of getting breast cancer. Although it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will definitely get it if it’s in your genetics, you might be at a higher risk. Find out if any your relatives suffered from the disease so that you can try and reduce the risk.

Self-examination

Breast cancer is not a sure death sentence and it’s treatable especially when diagnosed early. Know your breasts well enough so that you can easily detect any weird changes. Also, examine your breast frequently to detect any changes such as a lump, soreness or abnormal tenderness.

The lump is not always cancer

While examining yourself, you may feel some lumps but they must not be cancerous. So, don’t freak out first if you feel a lump. The lumps could simply be cysts which are fluid-filled and completely non-cancerous.

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Screening

Well, self-examination is important but not enough. Once in a while, visit an expert for screening. A mammogram is the best way to detect any signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

Risk factors

Besides being a woman and genetic factors, other risk factors for breast cancer include; oral contraceptive use, high intake of red meat, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, high onset of menstruation, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Signs and symptoms

Some signs to watch out for include; nipple discharge, painful lump, soreness, change in position of the nipple, and change in size and shape of the breast.

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