Breast pain can be alarming, but it is also the most common breast symptom experienced by most women. In fact, research published in the Management of Breast Diseases indicates that up to 70% of women experience breast pain, or mastalgia, at some point in their lives. While many people immediately associate breast pain with breast cancer, it is important to note that breast pain is rarely linked to cancer. Instead, most cases of breast pain are either associated with hormonal changes or linked to benign breast diseases like breast cysts.
In this article, we will not only discuss what benign breast disease means but will also decode whether or not having a pre-existing breast condition puts one at risk of breast cancer.
Also Read: Breast Cancer Lumps May Feel Firm And Round: How Is It Different From Benign Breast Lumps
What Is A Benign Breast Disease?
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) defines benign breast disease as a "group of conditions marked by changes in breast tissue that are benign (not cancer)."
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Rohit Kumar C, Consultant - Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, HIPEC and PIPAC Specialist, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, lists some of the most common benign breast diseases, which include:
- Fibroadenomas
- Cysts
- Fibrocystic changes
- Intraductal papillomas
According to a 2019 study published in the Deutsches Ärzteblatt, around 50% of women over 30 experience breast lumps or tenderness at some point. These are often due to fibrocystic changes, which are fortunately benign in most cases.
Similarly, fibroadenomas, the most common type of benign breast tumour, occur in 25% of women and don't require treatment, the researchers noted.
Does A Benign Breast Disease Put You At Risk Of Breast Cancer?
The short answer is not necessarily.
According to Dr Kumar, a benign lump doesn't guarantee cancer. However, some types can slightly raise your risk, he adds.
“Conditions like fibrocystic changes (lumpy breasts that change with your cycle) or fibroadenomas (smooth lumps in younger women) are common and benign, but it's still important to be monitored by your doctor, especially if you have other risk factors,” the doctor notes.
While most benign breast diseases are harmless and do not increase the risk of cancer, the German study mentioned above highlighted the importance of distinguishing between benign and potentially malignant breast changes. While the vast majority of benign lumps won't turn cancerous, certain types carry a higher risk, it was noted.
For example, complex cysts have a malignancy risk of 23–31%, papillary lesions of 16%, and radial scars of 7%.
Also Read: Rare, But Men Can Also Develop Breast Cancer: Expert Shares Who Is At Risk And Warning Signs
How To Differentiate Between Benign Breast Illness And Breast Cancer?
Dr Kumar says that it's tricky to differentiate between benign and cancerous lumps. This is because both benign and cancerous lumps can cause similar symptoms like thickening, nipple discharge, or skin changes.
However, when it comes to breast cancer lumps, there are a few factors to consider:
- They are usually painless.
- They have irregular edges.
- They feel stuck to the breast tissue.
On the other hand, benign lumps can be tender, smooth, and move freely.
The only sure way to know is through a biopsy, where a small sample is taken and examined under a microscope, says Dr Kumar.
Know The Other Risk Factors For Breast Cancer
Regular self-exams and doctor visits are key to detecting breast cancer early, according to Dr Kumar. Additionally, it is also important to assess your risk and work with a doctor to minimise that risk.
“Risk assessment for the occurrence of breast cancer involves examination of genetic factors like BRCA mutations, personal medical history alongside that of close relatives, and health-related choices made by an individual. The Gail Model or Tyrer-Cuzick Model are tools used to estimate probabilities grounded on these criteria,” he concludes.