Breast cancer happens when certain cells in the breast start growing abnormally and form a lump or mass. Sometimes the cancer stays in the place where it started, such as the milk ducts or lobules (non-invasive), and sometimes it spreads into nearby breast tissue and possibly other parts of the body (invasive).

Breast cancer can develop in both women and men, but it is much more common in women. Men have breast tissue too, so although rare, they can also get breast cancer.

You can’t completely prevent it, but you can lower your risk by:

• Staying physically active
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol
• Not smoking
• Talking to your doctor about screening and, if needed, genetic testing

If a screening test or exam finds something unusual, your doctor may order more tests to learn more.
These can include:

• Imaging tests like a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI to get a closer look
• A biopsy, where a small sample of breast tissue is taken and examined in a lab to see if cancer cells are present

The stage of breast cancer describes how big the tumor is and whether it has spread beyond the breast. Stages range from 0, which means the cancer is non-invasive and hasn’t spread, to stage IV, which means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment depends on the type of breast cancer and how far it has spread. Common treatments include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor, either just the lump (lumpectomy) or the whole breast (mastectomy)
• Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy, which uses medicines to destroy cancer cells throughout the body
• Hormone therapy to block hormones that help some cancers grow
• Targeted therapy, which focuses on specific molecules in cancer cells
• Immunotherapy, which helps the body’s immune system fight cancer (used in some cases)

Some chemotherapy medicines can cause hair loss, but not everyone experiences this. Your care team can help you prepare and manage it, with options like wigs, scarves, or special cooling caps that may reduce hair loss.

Many people can keep working during breast cancer treatment, but it depends on the type of treatment, any side effects you might have, and your overall health. It’s important to listen to your body and talk with your healthcare team about what’s best for you.

Breast cancer can sometimes come back after treatment. Your doctor will work with you to create a follow-up care plan to help lower the risk of recurrence and monitor your health closely.

There are many places to find support during and after breast cancer, including:

• Local or online support groups where you can connect with others going through similar experiences
• Counseling or therapy to help with emotional and mental health
• Patient navigators and nonprofit cancer organizations that offer guidance and resources
• Support from friends and family who care about you

If you notice any new or unusual changes in your breast, don’t wait, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible so they can evaluate it. Early checks help ensure any issues are addressed quickly.