Can breast hyperplasia turn into cancer?

Written by Wang Zhi Chao

Breast Surgery

Updated on October 18, 2024

00:00

00:00

Traditional breast hyperplasia, specifically lobular hyperplasia, does not become cancerous. However, if the hyperplasia has progressed to atypical hyperplasia, there is a small chance that it could turn into cancer. Normal lobular hyperplasia, in itself, does not become cancerous. Self-examinations and annual hospital check-ups are very important. Therefore, when you cannot distinguish whether the hyperplasia is lobular or atypical, you should go to a formal hospital for an examination.

Other Voices

home-news-image

Written by Fan Hong Qiao

Breast Health Department

46sec

home-news-image

What should I do about hyperplastic nodules in the breast?

Breast nodules are a symptom commonly associated with breast hyperplasia and neoplastic breast diseases. In treatment, it is crucial to first make an accurate diagnosis through breast ultrasound and mammography. If some nodules are highly likely to be benign, regular follow-up observation may be considered. If a biopsy is needed for some breast nodules to determine their pathological nature, the treatment plan can be decided based on the pathology results. If diagnosed as malignant tumors, a personalized comprehensive treatment plan should be developed in collaboration with multiple disciplines based on the patient's condition, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, and molecular targeted therapy, among others.

home-news-image

Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

39sec

home-news-image

What are the symptoms of mammary gland hyperplasia?

The primary symptoms of mammary gland hyperplasia are breast swelling and pain, which typically affect both sides but are often more pronounced on one side. Breast swelling and pain are noticeably worse before menstruation and ease after the period ends, then gradually cease until the pain reappears with the next menstrual cycle. The entire breast may feel diffusely nodular and tender to touch, with occasional lumps or increased breast pain, all related to the menstrual cycle. Additionally, mammary gland hyperplasia may also involve a small amount of nipple discharge, primarily white or brown in color.

home-news-image

Written by Fan Hong Qiao

Breast Health Department

1min 16sec

home-news-image

Is hyperplasia of the mammary glands serious?

Overall, breast hyperplasia is a benign disease and not severe, so there is no need for excessive anxiety. However, it should definitely not be taken lightly. Studies have found that about 2% to 3% of cases with breast hyperplasia may develop into cancer, and the rate of malignant transformation in cystic breast hyperplasia is 3 to 5 times higher than in other women. If you do not control factors that cause breast hyperplasia, such as endocrine disorders, high-fat diets, smoking, drinking, hypertension, and diabetes, then the breast ducts and epithelia being chronically stimulated by these factors could potentially become cancerous. The progression from breast hyperplasia to breast cancer is a lengthy process, undergoing four stages: hyperplasia → atypical hyperplasia (precancerous) → in situ carcinoma → invasive carcinoma. Therefore, breast hyperplasia should be taken very seriously, with efforts made for early examination, early detection, and early treatment. This is especially important for those with a family history of breast cancer or who belong to families with a high incidence of cancer.

home-news-image

Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

41sec

home-news-image

Does breast hyperplasia hurt?

The main symptom of mammary gland hyperplasia is breast pain, which usually occurs in accordance with the menstrual cycle. There is significant breast pain before the period, and symptoms tend to lessen after the period. Generally, the pain is intermittent, diffuse, dull, or like needle pricks. There can also be shooting pain or hidden pain, and even some report pain as if being cut by a knife. Some of the pain is subjective, but it can also manifest as pain upon touch, or pain from friction caused by clothing during walking. There can be tenderness in the breasts, or increased pain in the upper limbs after physical exertion. The pain may occur in one breast or both.

home-news-image

Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

47sec

home-news-image

Can hyperplasia of mammary glands be completely cured?

Generally speaking, it is difficult to completely cure breast hyperplasia because it is related to elevated levels of estrogen. Factors such as the external environment, work, living conditions, interpersonal relationships, various stress-related psychological factors, and changes in the indoor environment cause the state of the ovaries to continuously change, leading to the condition. Therefore, over a period of time, the use of medication or changes due to stress and mental factors can improve breast hyperplasia and eliminate the feeling of pain. However, with changes in the environment occurring again, the hyperplasia can recur, similar to catching a cold. After recovery, exposure to the virus after some time can lead to a recurrence.