Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, with over 1.5 million cases diagnosed annually worldwide. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, and screening methods like mammography and MRI are effective in reducing mortality. Risk factors include age, family history, reproductive factors, estrogen exposure, and lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption and poor diet. Genetic factors like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly increase breast cancer risk. Preventive strategies include screening, chemoprevention with drugs like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors, and biological prevention using monoclonal antibodies targeting HER2. Advances in understanding breast cancer pathogenesis, including the role of cancer stem cells and epigenetic changes, have led to improved prevention and treatment options. Despite progress, breast cancer remains a major health challenge, particularly in developing countries. Future directions include personalized prevention based on genetic testing, improved screening technologies, and targeted therapies for aggressive subtypes like triple-negative breast cancer. Public awareness and education are crucial for effective prevention and early detection.Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, with over 1.5 million cases diagnosed annually worldwide. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, and screening methods like mammography and MRI are effective in reducing mortality. Risk factors include age, family history, reproductive factors, estrogen exposure, and lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption and poor diet. Genetic factors like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly increase breast cancer risk. Preventive strategies include screening, chemoprevention with drugs like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors, and biological prevention using monoclonal antibodies targeting HER2. Advances in understanding breast cancer pathogenesis, including the role of cancer stem cells and epigenetic changes, have led to improved prevention and treatment options. Despite progress, breast cancer remains a major health challenge, particularly in developing countries. Future directions include personalized prevention based on genetic testing, improved screening technologies, and targeted therapies for aggressive subtypes like triple-negative breast cancer. Public awareness and education are crucial for effective prevention and early detection.