Breast Cancer Anatomy, Aetiology and Epidemiology

Question 1

How do breasts develop?

Answer 1

• Mammary glands are composed of glandular and adipose tissues
• At puberty, there is an increase in oestrogen circulation which results in the growth of ducts, lobules, connective tissue and fat to form the adult breast
• Breasts in non-lactating women are mainly made from fat
• 3 main hormones impacting the breast are oestrogen, progesterone and prolactin
• In pregnancy high oestrogen and progesterone levels stimulate the production of glandular breast tissue to prepare for lactation