An Overview of Breast Cancer [Video]

Medically Reviewed by Kerolos G. Rizk, DO

Breast cancer is a group of diseases in which cells in breast tissue change and divide in an uncontrolled manner, typically resulting in a lump or mass. McLeod oncologist/hematologist Dr. Kerolos Rizk explains the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and why early detection is so important.

“Breast cancer may appear as an abnormal lump or nodule, a firmness in the breast. Sometimes it can also be in the armpit as a lump, or a mass that may be there. Sometimes it could be just the breast tissue itself has changed. Sometimes breast cancer doesn’t have a sign. Then we incidentally find it on a screening mammogram. Sometimes it can present with unexplained weight loss, body aches, or bone pain.

The older a female becomes, the breast cancer risk does increase. Family historyis a very big, important risk factor itself, especially if there’s a first-degree relative, whether that be a mom or a …