Breast Cancer: Understanding the Basics
Learning about breast cancer can often feel overwhelming. The CURE Foundation is committed to helping people across Canada better understand breast cancer risk, screening, early detection and the importance of making informed health decisions.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow abnormally. Not all breast changes are cancer - many, such as cysts and other conditions, are benign (non-cancerous).
Most breast cancers begin in the ducts, which carry milk to the nipple, or in the lobules, the glands that produce milk. Some cancers are detected early before they spread, while others become invasive and grow into surrounding breast tissue.
There are several types of breast cancer, including ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, Paget disease of the breast, and triple-negative breast cancer. Identifying the type of breast cancer helps guide treatment and care.
Understanding Risk Factors
Many factors can influence a person's risk of developing breast cancer. Because everyone has breast tissue, breast cancer can affect both women and men.
Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play an important role in breast health, and some breast cancers use these hormones to grow.
KEY BREAST CANCER RISK FACTORS
Personal and Family History
A previous breast cancer diagnosis or a family history of the disease may increase risk. Family history refers to close blood relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
What are dense breasts?
How do I know if I have dense breasts?
Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol consumption increases the risk of breast cancer, and the risk rises with the amount consumed. Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke may also increase breast cancer risk.
Sign & Symptoms
#knowyournormal
Knowing what is normal for your body can help you recognize changes that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Breast cancer symptoms can vary and may include:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Redness, swelling, or thickening of the breast
- Nipple changes or discharge
- Persistent breast or nipple pain
Most breast changes are not cancer, but any unusual or ongoing change should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Click here to learn more about #knowyournormal
Key Breast Cancer Topics
List of Services
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What is breast cancer?List Item 1
There are several types of breast cancer, including ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, Paget disease of the breast, and triple-negative breast cancer...
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Understanding Risk FactorsList Item 2
Many factors can influence a person's risk of developing breast cancer. Because everyone has breast tissue, breast cancer can affect both women and men.
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Signs & Symptoms | #knowyournormalList Item 3
Changes to your breasts can also be signs of less serious conditions that are not cancerous, such as an infection or a cyst.
80% of lumps are not cancerous.
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Breast Cancer MythsList Item 4
Explore our video series that addresses common misconceptions about breast cancer, risk factors, screening, and treatment.
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Breast Cancer In Canada
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among Canadian women.
Breast Cancer Myths
Explore our video series that addresses common misconceptions about breast cancer, risk factors, screening, and treatment.
Breast cancer in Canada
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among Canadian women.
1 in 8
1 in 8 women in Canada will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
17 min. (approx)
A woman in Canada is diagnosed with breast cancer approximately every 17 minutes.
+32,400
In 2026, more than 32,400 women in Canada are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer.
5,400
Approximately 5,400 women will die from the disease this year.
Breast cancer can also affect men. In 2026, an estimated
300 Canadian men will be diagnosed, and approximately
60 men will die from the disease.
AWARENESS
Awareness Starts With Knowing Your Normal
Breast education begins with understanding your body, knowing your family history, and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. CURE encourages women to stay informed, ask questions, and advocate for their breast health.
