A sharp pain in the breast, lumps that could be felt, and inverted nipple - Any one of these symptoms are enough to give immeasurable anxiety to women and their loved ones. Because these are the signs of breast cancer and breast cancer is indeed a nightmare for women!

Every year the month of October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness. The National Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation recognizes this a month to ‘RISE’ - A rally to help every woman to undergo screening, support and serve each other.

Why is awareness everything?

Even though breast cancer does not show any signs in the early stages, the early detection of lumps, changes in breast, or sharp pain can be detrimental in the treatment process. Doctors and breast cancer awareness volunteers urge women across the globe to frequently self-check for the early signs.

Stay with us until the end of the blog as we explore all about breast cancer in women, symptoms of breast cancer, how to self-screen, and the treatment options.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when the cells in the breast grow in an uncontrollable manner. As a result, they create a mass of tissue that further forms lumps and tumors. The abnormal cells, originated in the breast cells, can pass on to the other organs and form tumors. This is called metastasis.

Who is at the risk of breast cancer?

Breast cancer has surpassed cervical cancer to become the most common form of cancer in Indian women. It is mostly affecting the women in major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Coimbatore. It does not mean women in rural areas are not being diagnosed with this type of cancer.

In fact, breast cancer is growing at a constant pace in India. 1 in every 28 women in the Indian population is likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetime. These numbers are staggering and rising at an alarming rate.

The good news is one third of cases can be averted by raising awareness on the early signs, symptoms, and getting better treatment.

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

The warning signs in the early stages can be subtle. However, with a little bit of practice and focus, women can feel them. Here are a few signs.

● Unexplained redness on the breast followed by irritation and skin flakiness

● A sharp pain in the breast or nipple that does not go away after the period

● Changed size or shape of the nipple or the breast

● Nipple discharge in yellow, red or brown color

● Tenderness or swelling of the breast

Note: Not all these signs are related to cancer. These symptoms can be observed with various health conditions. Do not panic or draw conclusions without a conclusive advice from your doctor.

What are the types of breast cancer?

Breast cancer is both invasive and noninvasive. Noninvasive type is called ‘0’ stage and invasive is referred to with numbers from 1-4. Based on the type of originated tissue, here are the two commonly observed breast cancer types.

● Ductal breast cancer - The cancer originates in the cells of milk ducts. The cancer is still in its early stages and not yet spread into the breast tissue. This is still a noninvasive or pre-invasive cancer.

● Lobular breast cancer - The cancer originates in the milk glands and this can be both noninvasive and invasive. In the noninvasive stage, the cancer cells are found only in the milk glands or lobules.

How to diagnose breast cancer?

If you are observing the warning signs for more than 15 days and they do not go away with the period, consider it is time to consult your doctor. Based on the physical examination, they will get details about your past medical history, family health history, mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy as per the observations.

What is the treatment for breast cancer?

● Lumpectomy - The lump in the breast is removed without affecting the breast.

● Mastectomy - The complete breast along with the breast tissue is removed.

● Chemotherapy - Anticancer drugs are used to prevent the growth of cancer cells.

● Radiation - Common cancer practice. Uses radiation beams directly on cancer cells.

Frequently asked questions:

The treatment for cancer varies from stage to stage. Here are a few common treatment practices employed in the best cancer hospitals.

1. Will breast cancer recur after treatment?

There are chances for recurrence of breast cancer. If you observe a new lump or any symptoms similar to cancer, reach out to your cancer specialist.

2. How to prevent breast cancer?

Early detection is the best way to prevent breast cancer. Self-screen once in every month, eat healthy and exercise regularly.

3. What are the risk factors of breast cancer?

Some of the risk factors include physically inactive, obesity, menopause, taking hormones, exposure to chemicals, alcohol and tobacco consumption.

4. Can men also get breast cancer?

Breast cancer in men is rare but cannot be ruled out. It is prevalent (but rare) in older men than the young.

If you are looking for the best breast cancer hospital in Coimbatore, book an appointment with FIMS hospital today.