Breast Cancer
What type of disease is breast cancer, and what causes it?
Breast cancer is a complex disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of breast tissue due to genetic mutations.
What is DNA's role in cells, and how does it relate to breast cancer?
DNA serves as the genetic blueprint for cell function, and mutations in DNA can lead to cancerous growth.
What impact does regular exercise have on breast cancer risk?
Regular exercise helps reduce the risk by maintaining a healthy weight and hormonal balance.
How does Stage I breast cancer differ from Stage II?
Stage I involves small tumors confined to the breast, while Stage II may include larger tumors or limited local spread.
How has digital mammography improved early detection of breast cancer?
It provides more detailed images that help identify cancer at earlier stages.
What organization provided the estimate for new breast cancer cases in 2023?
The American Cancer Society
What do mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes prevent?
They prevent the proper repair of DNA, which can allow for uncontrolled cell division.
How does alcohol consumption influence breast cancer risk?
Alcohol can increase estrogen levels, which may promote the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancer
What is the primary goal of chemotherapy in treating breast cancer?
To eliminate cancer cells throughout the body by using cytotoxic drugs.
What is a major focus of survivorship care after breast cancer treatment?
Monitoring for recurrence and managing long-term side effects.
List two environmental factors that can lead to the development of breast cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays and exposure to tobacco smoke.
What is the relationship between mutations and cancer cell proliferation?
Multiple mutations in the DNA can disrupt cell regulation, causing excessive growth and cancer formation.
Why are people with a family history of BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations at higher risk?
These mutations can be inherited, increasing susceptibility to breast cancer.
When might a lumpectomy be preferred over a mastectomy?
When the tumor is small and confined, allowing the rest of the breast to be preserved.
Why is genetic testing important for breast cancer patients?
It helps identify specific mutations that can guide personalized treatment plans.
Why is breast cancer more common in women than in men?
Breast cancer mainly affects breast tissue, which is more developed in women, and hormonal factors like estrogen also play a role.
Why do cancer cells typically have a larger nucleolus compared to normal cells?
The enlarged nucleolus supports increased ribosome production needed for rapid cell growth.
How can lifestyle choices like diet and exercise help reduce breast cancer risk?
They help maintain a healthy weight and lower levels of cancer-promoting hormones, such as estrogen.
Why is hormone therapy used in some breast cancer treatments?
It blocks hormones like estrogen that promote the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors.
How does immunotherapy aid in breast cancer treatment?
It boosts the body's immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
Explain why exposure to carcinogens can lead to cancer.
Carcinogens cause mutations in cells' DNA, which can disrupt normal cell growth and lead to uncontrolled cell division.
Describe how a mutation in one cell can affect nearby cells, leading to cancer development.
A mutation can trigger a series of additional mutations in neighboring cells, promoting further cancerous growth.
What is the significance of environmental exposures in breast cancer development?
Long-term exposure to carcinogens or radiation can cause DNA mutations that increase cancer risk.
Explain how targeted therapy works differently from chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy focuses on specific features of cancer cells, such as protein overexpression, whereas chemotherapy affects all rapidly dividing cells.
What are some challenges breast cancer survivors face post-treatment?
Physical side effects, emotional impacts, and the risk of cancer recurrence.