Breast cancer is one of the most common health concerns worldwide. According to WHO, it is the most common cancer among women, accounting for the most common among 100 types of cancers that start in the cells of the breasts.
Breast cancer is one of the most common health concerns worldwide. According to WHO, it is the most common cancer among women, accounting for the most common among 100 types of cancers that start in the cells of the breasts.
It all starts with pain, tenderness or swelling in the breast. Although every woman experiences pain in the breast at some point in their life like - in early puberty, post-menopause or at any other time. Some females also experience-
Cyclical Breast Pain
This pain is directly related to the menstrual cycle. This kind of pain may start a week or less before a period and disappear as soon as the period begins. Time of pain may vary according to individual
Non-Cyclical Breast Pain
This kind of pain is not because of the menstrual cycle that's why it is known as non - cyclical. Non cyclical breast pain may occur due to a variety of reasons like- injuries, surgeries, oral contraceptives, infertility treatments,cysts, bras with inadequate support or even stress. This kind of pain reveals itself over time.
Breast cancer affects millions of people and making an early detection is most important to diagnose breast cancer in early stages when it is most treatable.
Let's understand breast cancer and its complexities!
What is Breast Cancer?
Also known as Carcinoma of breast/ Ca Breast/ Breast tumour/ Breast Carcinoma
Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow in an uncontrolled manner.
What Are the Types of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer depends on the cell in the breast that turns into cancer.
Breast is made up of three main parts:- Lobules, ducts and connective tissue.
Most Common Types of Breast Cancer Are:-
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
Also known as infiltrating ductal carcinoma, It starts in the milk ducts of the breast and it may spread into adjacent surrounding tissues.
Lobular Breast Cancer
This type of cancer starts in the milk producing glands (lobules) in the breast and may spread into adjacent tissue.
Ductal carcinoma in Situ
Cancer starts into milk ducts and does not spread to other parts.
Other Type of Breast Cancer Are:-
- Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)
- Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)
- Paget’s disease of the breast
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer affects the breast in different ways. Symptoms of breast cancer includes-
- Change in the shape, size or contour of your breast.
- A lump or mass in the breast or armpit
- Nipple discharge
- Skin changes such as dimpling, redness or scaling
- Pain in breast or nipple
- Swelling or lump in the lymph nodes near the breast.
- A marble hardened area under the skin
What Are the Causes of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer may occur due to numerous reasons, so it's important to understand the underlying cause. Breast cancer happens when cancerous cells divide and multiply to create tumour mass. There are several risk factors that may increase chances to develop breast cancer:-
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and most commonly in women with postmenopausal.
- Genetic Mutations: Genetic mutation which is inherited that increase the risk of breast cancer these are - BRCA1 and BRCA 2
- Gender: Well breast cancer can occur in both male and females but predominantly associated with females.
- Family History: Cancer may run in the family. Family history includes breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer or prostate cancer.
- Hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives: It's important for every individual to understand the symptoms and not all cases of breast cancer show symptoms. Hence, it's important to identify the changes and early detection is the key to healthy life.
Stages of Breast Cancer
Stage 0
The cancer is non invasive and hasn't spread from your ducts to other parts of your breast
Stage 1
The cancer cells spread to adjacent structures.
Stage 2
A tumor or tumors have formed from the cancerous cells. The tumor can be larger than 5 centimetres across but not larger than 2 centimetres across, or it can be smaller than 2 centimetres across and have spread to lymph nodes under the arms. At this stage, tumours can range in size from 2 to 5 centimetres in diameter and may or may not impact the lymph nodes in the surrounding area.
Stage 3
There’s breast cancer in nearby tissue and lymph nodes. Stage III is usually referred to as locally advanced breast cancer.
Stage 4
Cancer has spread from your breast to areas like your bones, liver, lungs or brain.
How to Diagnose Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can be diagnosed through multiple tests including Mammography, MRI and biopsy.
When a patient or their physician notices a mass or abnormal calcifications on a screening mammography, or a lump or nodule in the breast during a clinical or self-examination, a battery of tests is typically ordered to assess the possibility of breast cancer. Less frequently, a lump or nodule under the arm or a red or swollen breast may be noticed.
The tests listed below can be used as follow-up exams after a breast cancer diagnosis, or they can be used to diagnose breast cancer.
- Mammography-
- Diagnostic mammography is a low dose X-Ray of breast which detects cancer and changes in the breast.
- Ultrasound-
- An ultrasound of breast is a diagnostic test used to create the images of breast tissues. An ultrasound can detect the fluid filled cyst, lumps or nipple discharge.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging -
- MRI breasts produce detailed images of the breast. A special dye or contrast media is given before the exam to create more clear images of the possible cancer.
- MRI may be used as a surveillance method following breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Biopsy-
- A biopsy involves taking a tiny sample of tissue to examine under a microscope. Only a biopsy can definitively diagnose cancer, even though other tests may indicate that it is present. The sample(s) is then examined by a pathologist. A pathologist is a medical professional who focuses on diagnosing illness by analysing cells, tissues, and organs and interpreting laboratory results.
- Other tests-
- Immunochemistry test to check the Hormone receptors
- Genetic tests to identify the mutations that causes breast cancer
What is the Treatment of Breast Cancer?
The treatment of patients may vary which depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's health, and their personal preferences are some of the variables that affect the treatments for breast cancer
The main treatment for breast cancer is surgery, though medical professionals may employ other strategies as well. Surgical procedures for breast cancer include:
- Mastectomy
- Breast reconstruction
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy/ Radiation therap[y
- Immunotherapy
- Hormonal therapy
- Targeted therapy
Conclusion
Early detection of breast cancer plays a crucial role in treatment of breast cancer. Being aware of the symptoms, causes, self examination and adhering to screening guidelines and its important to take steps actively to ensure breast health.
Awareness is the golden chance to battle against health disorders. Prevention is better than cure, so we are at the Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging centre that brings breast cancer information and tests to everyone at an affordable price.
Our bodies are full of mysteries ao there is a lot to understand. Hence its important to diagnose symptoms and avoid complications and get cured.
At Ganesh Diagnostic, we are passionate about our mission to deliver healthcare services to patients that go above and beyond with our exceptional services. With a skilled team and advanced technology we provide the best diagnostic tests for breast cancer.
Visit Ganesh Diagnostic And Medical Centre today!
Excellence in healthcare, excellence in patient experience.
Why Us?
- NABH and NABL accredited centre
- Test report is available digitally too.
- We provide world’s finest technology at the lowest price.
- We also provide- Free Home Sample Collection, Free Ambulance Service and Free Consultation from the Doctor itself.
Frequently Asked Questions Related Breast Cancer
Cost of Mammography in Delhi
The price of mammography varies by region and facility. So get tested with the Best diagnostic centre.
Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre offers 50% discount. Hurry up, Call Now and grab your offer!
When Should I Begin Getting Checked for Breast Cancer?
According to breast cancer screening guidelines, women with average risk should begin mammograms at age 40; however, each person's decision should take their family history and risk factors into account. Talking about this with your healthcare provider is crucial.
Can Breast Cancer Occur in Men?
It is rare, but yes, men can get breast cancer. Men who notice any worrying changes in their breast tissue should be aware of the symptoms and get in touch with a healthcare professional.
Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
No but the risk of developing cancer can be reduced. Also early detection of cancer is easier to treat and shows better prognosis.
What Food Do I Have to Avoid to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer?
Use oils, fats, and sugars in moderation.
Steer clear of fried foods. Sugar and fat in excess are empty calories that don't supply the body with any nutrition. The immune system may be impacted by eating too many empty calories and not enough nutrient-dense food.
