10 Most Common Cancers
2. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a close second to lung cancer. In 2018, there were 2,088,849 new cases and consists of 12.3% of all cancers. Patients generally present with a lump in the breast. There can also be nipple discharge, nipple inversion, changes in the skin of the breast, and more. In advanced cases where the cancer has spread, there may be swollen lymph nodes, breathlessness, and bone pain.
It can be generally divided into ductal or lobular carcinomas as these two are the commonest subtypes. However, there are more than 18 other subtypes. Diagnosis is confirmed through a biopsy. Medical imaging is used to assess the extent of the cancer. Treatment includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy. Prognosis depends on the cancer type and progression of the disease.
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