Breast cancer A review of risk factors and diagnosis
AbstractBreast cancer remains a complex and prevalent health concern affecting millions of individuals worldwide. This review paperpresents a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted landscape of breast cancer, elucidating the diverse spectrum of risk factorscontributing to its occurrence and exploring advancements in diagnostic methodologies. Through an extensive examination ofcurrent literature, various risk factors have been identified, encompassing genetic predispositions such as BRCA mutations,hormonal influences, lifestyle factors, and reproductive patterns. Age, family history, and environmental factors further contributeto the intricate tapestry of breast cancer etiology. Moreover, this review delineates the pivotal role of diagnostic tools in the earlydetection and management of breast cancer. Mammography, the cornerstone of breast cancer screening, is augmented byemerging technologies like magnetic resonance imaging and molecular testing, enabling improved sensitivity and specificity indiagnosing breast malignancies. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in ensuring widespread accessibility to screeningprograms, particularly in resource-limited settings. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of understanding diverserisk factors in the development of breast cancer and emphasizes the critical role of evolving diagnostic modalities in enhancingearly detection. The synthesis of current knowledge in this review aims to contribute to a deeper comprehension of breast cancer’smultifactorial nature and inform future directions in research, screening strategies, and preventive interventions.Abbreviations: bCSCs = breast cancer stem cells, BRCA1 = breast cancer gene 1, BRCA2 = breast cancer gene 2, CSCs =cancer stem cells, FNA = fine needle aspiration, HER2 = human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, HRT = hormone replacementtherapy, WHI = Women’s Health Initiative.Keywords: breast cancer, cancers, diagnosis, mortality, prevention, risk factors