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Breast Cancer: A Case Study

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Breast cancer is the result of cells quickly dividing and forming malignant tumors in the breast. Just as breast cancer invades the cells of the body, it has invaded the population of the United States. 1 in 8 women in the US will develop breast cancer in their lifetime (American Cancer Society, 2015). Not only does the disease affect a patient’s health, but it also interferes with how a patient may live his or her everyday life. Because breast cancer affects so many people, it is imperative to understand the disease and all its aspects.
Description of the Condition
Cancer occurs when there are abnormal changes in the genes responsible for regulating the growth of cells and health maintenance (“What Is Breast Cancer,” 2015). Normally, these …show more content…

Inherited gene mutations occur in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The BRCA genes are tumor suppressor genes (American Cancer Society, 2015). When these genes are mutated, they no longer suppresses abnormal growth causing tumors to develop. (American Cancer Society, 2015). Having a family history increases the risk of having breast cancer. When a first-degree relative is diagnosed, the risk doubles (American Cancer Society, 2015). Acquired gene mutations can be caused by environmental factors such as radiation and cancer-causing chemicals found in plastics, certain cosmetics, and personal care products. Diets that include high fat intake and alcohol consumptions have been linked to increasing the risk of developing breast cancer (American Cancer Society, 2015). There is not one factor that initiated the growth of the tumor, but combinations of …show more content…

A few of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer include: part of the breast thickening or swelling, changes in size or shape of the breast, and the development of a lump in the breast or underarm (CDC, 2015). A new lump in the breast or armpit is often referred to as a breast mass and is considered the most “classic characteristic” of breast cancer. A breast mass is described as a cancerous single dominant lesion that is hard, immovable and has irregular borders. If the skin of the breast begins to thicken this can be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer (Esserman & Joe,

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