What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer starts when cells in the breast change. Specifically, this is a malignant tumour in which cells can grow and destroy nearby tissue. They can also spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Kinds of Breast Cancer

There are two kinds of breast cancer: a form that starts as abnormal cells and a form that does not develop from abnormal cells. The first type is ductal carcinoma in situ, and the second is invasive cancer. Atypical hyperplasia and cysts can happen as a side-effect of hormone changes or changes to a woman’s immune system (due to other illnesses, for example). They can also lead to non-cancerous tumours such as intra-ductal papillomas.

Usually, breast cancer originates from cells lining ducts — tubes carrying milk from the glands to the nipple. Ductal carcinoma is a type of breast cancer. It usually starts in the cells of the lobules — where most glands that produce milk are. Lobular carcinoma is another type of cancer that can be present in the ductal or lobular tissues. Cancerous cells are still localized and have not spread anywhere else, but they can also be invasive, which means they grow into surrounding tissues.

Did you know that breast cancer is the 2^nd most common cancer in Canada?

The Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This annual national campaign was launched in October 1985 to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. It is the most common cancer among Canadian women that forms malignant cells in breast tissue.

Moreover, during their life, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. The exact causes of breast cancer are still unknown, so it is crucial to be proactive about your health and assess your exposure to known breast cancer risk factors.

What you can do to help

This October, besides showing support for everyone affected by breast cancer, you could also:

• donate to or fundraise for BC Cancer Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society
• book a yearly mammogram
• incorporate a breast self-exam into your routine
• seek information about the disease
• provide emotional and practical support and care for family and friends

Together, we can make a difference for Canadians with breast cancer.

What we are doing to help

At BC Medequip, we carry a wide variety of Mastectomy products for all women, including bras, tank tops, breast prostheses and more. Our Registered Nurse on staff will support you with a lifetime of experience recommending products that suit your needs, fit, comfort and confidence level. We will assist you in a professional, understanding, and caring environment.

Contact us for more information on this or other health care needs. We are here to help.