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Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in breast tissue, primarily originating from the ducts or lobules. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide, particularly prevalent in those aged 40 to 60. In recent years, with lifestyle changes and the spread of breast cancer screening, early detection rates have improved, but middle and late-stage patients still account for a significant proportion.
Globally, developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia show higher incidence rates, while China, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries have also shown significant increases. Among urban women, the incidence is growing rapidly. If not detected early, the disease may lead to lymphatic or distant metastasis, threatening patients’ lives.
Stage I: Localized tumor, very high survival rate
At this stage, tumors are less than 2 cm, without lymph node involvement or distant metastasis. Patients usually show no obvious discomfort, and detection is often incidental during physical exams. The 5-year survival rate can exceed 90%.
Stage II: Regional spread, requires active intervention
Tumors are larger than 2 cm or involve ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes. Symptoms gradually become obvious, such as an enlarged breast lump or nipple abnormalities. The 5-year survival rate is around 70%-85%.
Stage III: Locally advanced, complex treatment
Cancer cells widely involve the axilla or chest wall, often accompanied by skin dimpling and redness. Treatment plans are usually complex, with survival rates around 50%.
Stage IV: Distant metastasis, poor prognosis
Cancer cells have spread to the bones, lungs, or brain, causing distant symptoms. The treatment goal focuses on disease control and quality of life improvement, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 30%.
1. Painless breast lump as the initial symptom
The earliest symptom is usually a hard lump in the breast, varying in size, often unilateral and painless. It is typically hard, has unclear boundaries, and is fixed to the skin or deep tissue, making it immovable.
2. Nipple abnormalities as warning signs
Nipple discharge, especially bloody fluid, should raise high suspicion. Some patients may have nipple retraction, erosion, or crusting, indicating tumor invasion of the nipple-areola area or ductal system.
3. Skin dimpling and "peau d’orange" changes
With cancer infiltration of the skin and lymphatics, the breast surface may show dimpling, deformation, or a rough "orange peel" texture. Some patients may also have localized redness and warmth.
4. Enlarged axillary lymph nodes
When cancer cells spread along lymphatic pathways, hard nodules can be palpated in the armpit. They are usually painless, persistent, and enlarging—an important sign of regional spread.
5. Breast structure deformation and asymmetry
Obvious breast asymmetry, with local protrusion, dimpling, or nipple deviation, may reflect tumor growth direction or traction, serving as a sign of progression.
6. Breast pain or tenderness
Although most early breast cancers are painless, some patients may experience dull pain or tenderness, especially before menstruation or at night, more noticeable when tumors grow rapidly or with inflammation.
7. Inflammatory manifestations easily confused
Inflammatory breast cancer progresses rapidly, often with breast redness, swelling, heat, pain, and skin ulceration. It is often misdiagnosed as mastitis and must be differentiated from infectious diseases.
8. Shoulder and neck pulling sensation or upper limb swelling
If axillary lymph nodes compress nerves or blood vessels, patients may develop restricted shoulder and neck movement, arm numbness, or edema, indirectly indicating lymphatic involvement.
9. Bone or lung pain suggesting metastasis
Advanced breast cancer spreading to bones or lungs may cause persistent bone pain, chest tightness, or cough, sometimes misdiagnosed as osteoporosis or respiratory infection, requiring vigilance.
10. Mental and systemic changes
As the disease progresses, patients may experience fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disorders. These "non-physical" symptoms require dual attention from doctors and patients, with early psychological intervention.
Breast cancer presents with diverse symptoms, from painless lumps to skin dimpling and nipple abnormalities, with specific signs at each stage. Experts from United Life International Medical Center emphasize that women over 40, those with breast hyperplasia history, or family history should undergo regular imaging and ultrasound screening. Any breast structure changes, nipple discharge, or persistent pain should prompt immediate medical consultation for early detection and treatment. Experts also highlight that immune reconstruction cell therapy has shown promising results in some patients, and when combined with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and psychological intervention, it continues to improve survival and quality of life.
