Unveiling Reality About Breast Cancer: Everything You Need to Know
And know how you get best breast cancer treatment in Nagpur.
Beyond the Pink Ribbon and awareness, there lies more to the story. But are you aware of it? Well, if not, know that breast cancer is one of the most common cancer types that affects women worldwide. Yet, most remain unaware of it. But fear not; this blog herein will encompass and allow you to navigate through breast cancer knowledge’s uncharted waters. It will allow you not to drop your heart the next time when during a self-check-up you feel that lump. Instead, it will motivate you to take that step and visit your Doctor without a delay or get done with that delayed mammogram as soon as possible. Like the idea of it? If yes, delve yourself beyond just the surface. Deep dive into the essential knowledge about breast cancer, which you should remain aware of to continue your journey beyond.
Breast Cancer- An Introduction
When we think about Breast Cancer, our thoughts go up to that unwanted lump on the Breast. Isn’t it? But for the medical world, this is a malignant transformation of the breast cells, which results in tumor transformation. It primarily affects women aged 50. But that doesn’t mean men or younger women are safe. This is why it is always recommended to remain aware of your body; after all,
“To Know Your Body is to Know Yourself and to Know Yourself is to Keep Yourself and Your Family Safe from the Unexpected.”
Now, once you get out of the extant knowledge, it is time to look for your treatment choices. For breast cancer, it includes surgical removal of the tumors or using therapies aimed towards eradicating or eliminating the malignant cells.
Common Types of Breast Cancer
As per the Indian healthcare professionals, there are varied types and subtypes of Breast Cancer. It is based on it that they offer tailored treatment to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimization of any adverse effects.
To know more and understand better, some common forms of Breast Cancer that have been discussed below.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
To begin with IDC, it is one of the most prevalent forms of breast cancer in India. It is the type of malignancy that begins in the mammary or milk ducts and then spreads to the nearby tissues of the Breast.
Lobular Breast Cancer
This form of Breast Cancer originates in the milk-producing glands or lobules of the Breast. It then metastasizes (spreads) to the adjacent breast tissue. It has been ranked as the 2nd most prevalent form of breast cancer in the country.
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
The last type or DCIS, this form of cancer is similar to IDC. It begins within the mammary ducts. However, it remains confined to lactation ducts.
Uncommon Breast Cancer Types in India
Hearing around just the term Breast Cancer, it might have been surprising for you to know about its types. Isn’t it? Well, it would be more surprising to know that it was not the end. Apart from the above, some uncommon Breast Cancer types can be found in India too. These are Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) and Paget’s disease in the Breast.
While IBC is uncommon or too rare in India, the malignancy herein spreads rapidly, leading to breast lesions. As for Paget’s disease, this rare form of breast cancer accounts for <4% of the total breast malignancies that are seen in India. It affects the skin of the nipples and looks like a rash.
Breast Cancer- Subtypes
Yes, you read it right. Just like the types, there are some subtypes of Breast Cancer too. These are categorized based on the status of receptor cells. Herein, the receptors are the protein molecules that are found on/in the cell surfaces. Such receptors either attach or attract specific substances within the blood, like hormones, i.e., progesterone and estrogen, that aid in cancerous cell growth. To determine if the cancerous cells have progesterone or estrogen receptors, it guides healthcare providers to formulate treatment plans for breast cancer.
The subtypes of Breast Cancer include ER-positive or ER+ (estrogen receptors), PR-positive or PR+ (progesterone receptors), HR-positive or HR+ (both estrogen and progesterone receptors), HR-negative or HR- (no estrogen or progesterone receptors), HER2-positive or HER2+ (higher than normal HER2 protein that is responsible for cancer cell growth) and Triple Negative Breast Cancer or TNBC (no hormone receptors or Her2 receptors). Amidst all, around 15-20% of the breast malignancies are HER2-positive.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of breast cancer to watch for:
• Change in shape, size, or contour of the breast.
• Presence of a lump or mass (can be small like a pea) which may or may not cause pain.
• Persistent lump or enlargement in or near the breast or underarm, especially during the menstrual cycle.
• Alterations in the feel or appearance of the breast skin (red, purple, or darker than another breast area) or nipple (scaliness, inflammation, puckering, or dimpling).
• A hard marble-like area under the skin.
• Nipple discharge, whether clear or blood-stained.
If you notice any of these symptoms: Visit your doctor immediately. Do not wait. Take prompt action.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
1. Age: Women aged 55 or older have a higher risk of breast cancer.
2. Gender: Women are at a higher risk of breast cancer than men.
3. Family history: Having close relatives (offspring, siblings, or parents) with breast cancer increases the risk.
4. Personal history: A previous diagnosis of ovarian cancer or breast cancer raises the risk of another malignancy.
Inherited genetic mutations: Around 15% of breast cancers are linked to mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
5. Lifestyle factors:
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Radiation exposure (especially through radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest)
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for prolonged periods
• Early menarche/late menopause
• Nulliparity (no children) or delivering the first child at an older age (35 years+)
Stay informed: Be aware of these risk factors to take preventive measures. Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Complications of Breast Cancer
Yes, you read it right. There can be complications associated with Breast Cancer. One major complication of it is metastatic breast cancer, wherein the cancer spreads to other areas like the bones, brain, lungs, and liver. As the studies show, 1 in every 3 women with early-stage cancer develops metastatic breast cancer.
Diagnosis & Tests for Breast Cancer
Importance of proper diagnosis and tests for breast cancer:
Conducting physical examinations or timely mammograms by healthcare providers. Detection of potential signs of the disease through physical examinations and mammograms. Further tests to confirm diagnosis:
• Breast ultrasound
• Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan
• Breast biopsy
• Immunohistochemistry test (identifies hormone receptors)
• Genetic assays (detect responsible mutations for breast cancer)
• PET scans or CT scans to identify cancer spread
• Bone Scintigraphy for identifying cancer-related bone involvement.
Remember: Follow your doctor’s advice diligently. Pay close attention to the recommendations given by healthcare professionals. Early detection through proper diagnosis and tests is crucial for effective treatment.
Steps for conducting a breast self-examination
Breast Cancer Stages
Just like any other cancer, Breast Cancer also has stages. It ranges from 0 or non-invasive to IV, which indicates the spread of cancer to distant areas like lungs or bones. The healthcare providers use the cancer staging system to organize the treatment and then set the prognosis. Such prognosis remains based on factors like cancer type, the size of the tumor, and the progression of cancer to the other parts of the body.
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer- A Tailored Approach for Every Individual
Do not be worried if you find out that you have Breast Cancer. Instead, try to focus ahead on finding out your best treatment plan. In general, treatment for primary breast cancer is Surgery. Together with it, there are some other treatment options, too. They are immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Some additional options apart from Surgery include mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and lumpectomy.
Note: Make sure you consider all of your options before choosing one. Also, we repeat- Do not ignore your Doctor’s advice.
Breast Cancer Surgery Complications
Everything comes with pros and cons. To say if the Breast Cancer Surgery can help you save your life, it can create potential complications, too. It includes blood emboli, infection, lymphedema, and nerve injury. Despite all these risks, the surgical benefits often outweigh the complications associated with it.
Preventive Measures for Breast Cancer
Even though breast cancer cannot be prevented entirely, one can reduce the risks by maintaining a healthy weight, having a nutritious diet, doing regular physical activities, avoiding the consumption of alcohol, doing self-exams, and undergoing regular screenings. Individuals with an increased Breast cancer risk due to genetics might even consider medication, genetic screening, or prophylactic mastectomy
Prediction/Prognosis
The survival rates of Breast Cancer patients vary based on factors like cancer stage. As per reports, around 91% of the individuals having breast cancer have been alive 5 years after the diagnosis. The survival rates by the stage are Local (99%), Regional (86%) and Distant (30%). With time and advancements, the prognosis remains improving, in particular for the early-stage diagnosis.
Living with Breast Cancer
The world has seen many cases where people live with cancer and survive for many years ahead. So, to take care of oneself after being diagnosed with breast cancer and with ongoing treatment, you must begin with having enough rest, maintaining a nutritious diet, managing stress through exercise, and seeking support from the survivorship programs. It will also be beneficial for you to contact the healthcare providers in case the symptoms start to worsen, and an immediate visit to the emergency room is recommended for the severe reactions due to the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can exist for years before any noticeable changes are seen. However, any persistent lump must be evaluated as soon as possible.
The spread rate of breast cancer varies based on the cancer type, tumor characteristics, and heredity. The healthcare providers will be able to provide personalized information.
Yes, men and assigned male individuals at the time of birth can have breast cancer. However, it is quite rare. Transgender individuals might have varied risk profiles.
A Note from Dr. Sameeksha Dubey
In India, one in nine people are likely to develop cancer in his/her lifetime. The advances in the treatments are continuously being evaluated for the personalized care, hence ensuring the patients with the best possible outcomes. Understandably, Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be quite daunting and difficult to handle task. Further, the post-treatment rehabilitation remains one of the most crucial aspects of patient care.
Understanding the importance of the above-mentioned, Dr. Sameeksha Dubey and her dedicated team remain completely committed and provide best breast cancer treatment in Nagpur. Every individual herein working alongside the Doctor tries to provide comprehensive and compassionate care, from diagnosis of breast cancer to throughout their journey of Breast Cancer, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. They support the individuals because they understand them and their needs. It isn’t easy, but nothing is impossible too.
So, why delay your checkup and your journey ahead when you can let your health be in the hands of such experts? Ask yourself this question and get in touch today
