Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, with approximately one in eight women in the U.S. developing the disease in their lifetime. While the incidence of breast cancer increases with age, the disease can affect women of all ages.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast mutate and start to grow and divide abnormally. If ignored, these abnormal cells can grow into tumors in the breast and eventually, the cancer can spread to other organs in the body.

Risk factors for breast cancer include being female, family history, and age - breast cancer usually occurs in women over 55. Other risk factors, such as undiagnosed genetic mutations and environmental factors, also play a role in determining if a woman develops breast cancer.

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. These include a lump or thickening in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin on the breast or nipples, changes in the nipple's appearance, discharge from the nipple, or pain in the breast or nipple.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible and undergo a physical examination. If necessary, diagnostic tests may be performed to further investigate any suspicious areas.

Treatment for breast cancer usually involves a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and/or targeted therapies. The goal of treatment is to remove or destroy the cancer as well as to reduce the risk of recurrence.

While breast cancer can be a scary diagnosis, it is important to remember that there are many treatment options available to those diagnosed with the disease. Additionally, there are lifestyle changes that can be made to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, reducing stress, and getting regular exercise.

Early detection is essential when it comes to treating breast cancer. Thus, it is important that all women stay alert and aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to schedule annual mammograms with their healthcare providers.