How a Cell Becomes a Cancer

Cells are the building blocks of all tissue and organs in the human body. Each cell contains genetic material (DNA) and other elements. DNA controls the growth rate of cells.

Normal cells grow and multiply at a specific rate. Cells that grow and multiply without stopping are called cancerous or malignant. Cancerous cells are not detectable when they first start growing. At a certain point, the cancerous cells continue to multiply and form a mass that can be detected. Abnormal cell growth could go on for years before it is large enough to be detected.

What is Breast Cancer?

Cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare.

Estimated new cases and deaths from breast cancer in the United States in 2008:

• New cases: 182,460 (female); 1,990 (male)
  
• Deaths: 40,480 (female); 450 (male)

(source: National Cancer Institute, Accessed June 2008)

Common Symptoms

Early breast cancer is often detected by a mammogram before any symptoms are present. Here's what to look for when giving yourself a breast examination.

• Any change in the breast such as the development of a lump or swelling.
  
• Skin irritation or dimpling.
  
• Nipple pain or retraction (turning inward)
  
• Redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin.
  
• Discharge from the nipple that is not breast milk.

For resources about breast cancer, please visit our PAMF Breast Cancer Resource page.

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