Editing Patient Pathways: Breast Cancer (section)

= Breast cancer =

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death and the most common malignant tumor in women worldwide, as well as in Croatia, and most commonly affects women aged 60 to 75. It occurs when cells in the breast begin to divide uncontrollably, creating a tumor that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). It most often develops in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple (ductal carcinoma) or in the glands that produce milk (lobular carcinoma). Although breast cancer is most commonly associated with women, it can also occur in men, but much less frequently. Due to the complexity of treatment and various therapeutic options that include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy, breast cancer patients face numerous challenges. Therefore, it is essential to provide comprehensive support measures that include medical care, psychological support, and education to improve patients’ quality of life and facilitate coping with the disease.

Breast cancer is divided into five categories: Carcinoma in situ, Early invasive carcinoma, Locally advanced carcinoma, Regionally advanced carcinoma, and Metastatic carcinoma. About 5-10% of breast cancer cases have a family history (genetic predisposition). Then the disease usually occurs at a younger age, and there are frequent cases of bilateral breast cancer. In this case, it is usually a matter of more aggressive subtypes of the disease, with a worse course and prognosis. The best-known hereditary breast cancer is the one related to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. For women who carry the BRCA gene mutation, the risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime is as high as 90%.

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