Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells grow in an uncontrolled way, usually forming a tumour.
Breast cancer is most likely to occur in women over the age of 50, but young women and men can get it too. It's most treatable when it’s found early, so it's important that you know what to look out for.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the result of abnormal gene “mistakes” or mutations, which are usually acquired over time as we age. These mutated cells grow and multiply in an uncontrolled way.
Breast cancer in NZ
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for Kiwi women and the third most common cancer overall. We cover some fast facts, age risks and diagnosis rates.
Breast anatomy and development
To understand breast cancer, it’s important to know what makes up healthy breasts, and how they develop.