Recognizing the signs and symptoms
Breast cancer often presents itself with several key symptoms that should never be ignored. One of the primary symptoms is a painless breast lump. While many may assume cancer is associated with pain, breast lumps, especially those that are painless, can indicate the presence of cancer, especially in women over the age of 35-40.
Other important symptoms include:
• Axillary lymph nodes: The presence of swelling or nodes in the armpit may be a sign of breast cancer.
• Nipple discharge: Any discharge from the nipple, especially if it is blood-stained, should be examined by a health care professional.
• Skin changes: Any noticeable changes in the thickening or texture of the breast skin may be a sign of underlying problems.
• Nipple inversion: A nipple that was previously turned outward turns inward, which could be a worrying sign.
• Changes in breast size or shape: Any sudden change in the size, shape, or size of the breast requires medical evaluation.
The challenge of awareness and testing
There is a lack of awareness about breast cancer in many places, including India. A common misconception is that cancer is always painful, which leads many people to ignore painless lumps. This delay in seeking medical help often leads to late diagnosis, making it difficult to detect cancer. Treatment more challenging.
In countries with established social protection systems, routine screening mammography is a standard practice, especially for women over the age of 40. However, in India, where individuals often pay for their own healthcare, routine screening is not as prevalent. This results in many cases being diagnosed at more advanced stages, where treatment is more intensive and outcomes are less favorable.
The importance of early detection
Early detection of breast cancer dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. When it is found early, often through routine screening methods such as mammography, survival rates are significantly higher, and the treatments needed are less invasive.
Treatment Methods
Breast cancer treatment varies depending on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage cancers (stages 1 and 2) generally have higher survival rates and may require less extensive treatment than advanced stages (stages 3 and 4).
For example:
• Stages 1 and 2: These early stages can be managed with surgery and limited use of chemotherapy or radiation. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cancer while maintaining the patient’s quality of life.
• Stage 3: Although cure is still possible, stage 3 breast cancer usually requires a combination of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and possibly immunotherapy. The goal is to effectively manage and control the disease. However, survival rates for stage 3 breast cancer are lower than for stages 1 and 2, reflecting the more advanced nature of the disease. Patients diagnosed at stage 3 often face more intensive treatment regimes, but with comprehensive care, many can achieve remission.
• Stage 4: At this advanced stage, the cancer has usually spread to other parts of the body and is not considered curable. The focus of treatment at stage 4 is on controlling the disease and maintaining the best quality of life for as long as possible. While survival rates for stage 4 breast cancer are low, advances in treatment are allowing patients to live longer, more fulfilling lives even with this diagnosis.
Complete health check-up services including blood pressure, cholesterol check-up, vision and hearing tests
Reducing risk factors
Although some risk factors for breast cancer, such as age and genetics, cannot be changed, many lifestyle factors can be managed to reduce the risk. These include:
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity is a known risk factor for breast cancer.
• Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking: Both have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
• Regular physical activity: Being active can help reduce the risk.
• Reproductive choices: Breastfeeding, childbearing, and the timing of these events may affect breast cancer risk.
• Hormonal factors: Early menarche (early onset of menstruation) and late menopause increase the risk. It is essential to use hormone therapy under medical supervision.
Advances in treatment and quality of life
Modern advances in breast cancer treatment focus not only on curing the disease but also on improving the quality of life of patients. Innovations include:
• Chemoports: These devices make the administration of chemotherapy easier.
• Scalp cooling methods: Used to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy.
• Advanced radiation machines: These machines minimize the effect on surrounding healthy tissue.
• Reconstructive surgery: Options are available to restore the appearance of the breast after mastectomy, maintaining the patient’s confidence and self-esteem.
Individual Treatment
Every breast cancer case is different, and treatments are tailored to the individual based on a variety of factors, including the patient’s overall health, specific cancer characteristics, and personal circumstances. This personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the most effective and appropriate care.
In short, understanding Signs and symptoms Awareness about breast cancer, the importance of early detection and the available treatment options are key to fighting this disease. Regular screenings, lifestyle changes and advances in medical technology all play a vital role in improving outcomes for people affected by breast cancer.
(Meghal Sanghvi, Oncosurgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central)
