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The Hong Kong Cancer Support Network provides you with comprehensive, free cancer information and professional assistance, ensuring that every patient and family member does not have to face the challenge alone.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor originating from breast tissue and is one of the most common cancers among women, though it can also occur in men. Most breast cancers arise from the milk ducts (ductal carcinoma) or the milk-producing lobules (lobular carcinoma). With advancements in early screening techniques, the rate of early diagnosis has gradually improved.

High-Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

  • Age: Risk increases with age

  • Family History/Genetics: BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations or a family history of breast cancer

  • Endocrine Factors: Early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity or late first childbirth, long-term hormone replacement therapy

  • Lifestyle: Obesity, lack of physical activity, high-fat diet, and alcohol consumption

  • History of Breast Disease: Benign breast tumors or abnormal proliferative lesions

 
 

Early-stage breast cancer may not present obvious symptoms. As the tumor grows, the following signs may appear:

  • Breast lump or mass: Usually painless, with irregular borders

  • Nipple discharge: May be bloody or clear

  • Changes in breast appearance: Skin dimpling, inverted or deformed nipple

  • Breast pain or discomfort: Some patients may experience mild discomfort in the early stage

  • Swelling of underarm lymph nodes: May indicate possible lymphatic spread

  • Advanced symptoms: Skin ulceration, redness, significant breast enlargement, or signs of metastasis

Because early symptoms are often subtle and varied, regular self-examination and breast imaging screenings are very important.

Breast cancer diagnosis relies on multiple examination methods:

Imaging Examinations

  • Mammography: Primarily used for early detection of lesions

  • Breast Ultrasound (US): Evaluates tumor size, shape, and axillary lymph nodes

  • MRI: Provides more detailed imaging for high-risk individuals or challenging lesions

Histological Examination (Biopsy)

  • Fine-needle or excisional biopsy of suspicious lumps

  • Determines tumor type (ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, etc.), grade, and stage

Molecular and Genetic Testing

  • Tests for hormone receptors (ER, PR), HER2 expression, and genetic mutations

  • Helps guide personalized care and supportive strategies

Breast cancer management includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, targeted/hormone support, and personalized care, aiming to control the tumor, reduce recurrence, and improve quality of life.

Surgery

  • Options include breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or mastectomy

  • Postoperative care, rehabilitation exercises, and nutritional support help accelerate recovery

Radiation and Chemotherapy

  • Controls local tumor growth and reduces recurrence risk

  • Combined with supportive care strategies, it can minimize side effects and maintain quality of life

Targeted and Hormone Support

  • Personalized care plans are guided by molecular testing results

  • Hormone receptor-positive patients may receive endocrine support therapy

  • Targeted therapy is available for HER2-positive tumors

Nutrition and Supportive Therapy

  • High-dose vitamin C, amino acids, glutathione, and trace element infusions

  • Improve energy levels, maintain immune function, and support overall health

Personalized Monitoring and Care

  • Regular imaging and blood tests to monitor disease progression

  • Adjust care plans, nutrition, lifestyle, and psychological support accordingly

  • High-risk or recurrence-prone patients may receive specialized care programs

 
 

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