How does breast cancer spread?

Breast cancer stem cells exist in two different states and each state plays a role in how cancer spreads, a new study has revealed. Study’s senior author Max S. Wicha from University of Michigan Com

By: Admin | | Updated: January 16, 2014 10:04 am

Breast cancer stem cells exist in two different states and each state plays a role in how cancer spreads, a new study has revealed. Study’s senior author Max S. Wicha from University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center said the lethal part of cancer is its metastasis so understanding how metastasis occurs is critical. ‘We have evidence that cancer stem cells are responsible for metastasis – they are the seeds that mediate cancer’s spread. Now we’ve discovered how the stem cells do this,’ Wicha said. First, on the outside of the tumor, a type of stem cell exists in a state called the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) state. Also Read - Ganesh Chaturthi 2020: 4 reasons an eco-friendly Ganesha is good for you

These stem cells appear dormant but are very invasive and able to get into the bloodstream, where they travel to distant parts of the body. Once there, the stem cells transition to a second state that displays the opposite characteristics, called the mesenchymal-epithelial transition state (MET). These cells are capable of growing and making copies of themselves, producing new tumors. The study looked specifically at breast cancer stem cells but the researchers believe the findings likely have implications for other cancer types as well. The study was published in the journal of Stem Cell Reports. Also Read - 7 reasons why the #BeefBan is good

Breast cancer is a major problem in India. According to Dr Sumeet Shah, ‘Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Indian cities, accounting for a staggering 25 to 35 percent of all cancers in women in cities! Even in rural areas, the incidence is steadily rising. In the year 2008, almost 1,15,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported in India, and about 53,000 death due to breast cancer were recorded.’ Certainly more awareness is needed and many campaigns have taken place over the last few years. In this mega guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the disease. Also Read - Novel hope for stem cell approach to treat diabetes, say researchers

Causes

Unhealthy style, stress, imbalanced food, irregular sleeping hours, etc. are some of the things that can lead to breast cancer.

Other reasons include:

Early menarche (start of menstruation) and late menopause which exposes the body’s cells to more than normal oestrogen. While oestrogen is an important and protective hormone, it has a proliferative effect on cells of the breast and uterus which results in cancer.
First delivery beyond 30 years of age increase chances of developing breast cancer
Genetic predisposition – about 6-8% of breast and ovarian cancers seem to be family-based. The genetic changes are passed down the generation, which will increase their chance of developing cancer. (Read: Breast cancer — causes, symptoms, myths, diagnosis, treatment)

With inputs from: ANI

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Published : January 15, 2014 6:16 pm | Updated:January 16, 2014 10:04 am

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