6 Min Read
Breast cancer affects millions of lives across the world every year. The journey from diagnosis to recovery can be an emotional and physical battle. Many people suddenly face the decisions they never expected to make, challenges they never thought they would face and fear that seems overwhelming. But through it all, the fight against breast cancer is also a story of courage, determination and hope. Just like the brave words, "Yesterday I dared to struggle, today I dare to win," breast cancer survivors embody the power of overcoming challenges. It is also important to encourage others to take charge of their health through regular screenings and breast care awareness.
Synopsis
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a common type of cancer that begins in the breast cells. It can occur in both women and men, although it’s far more common in women. Breast cancer typically affects people aged 50 or older. However, there are many instances where younger women are also diagnosed with breast cancer. The research says that about 80% of breast cancer cases are invasive and spread from the breast to another part of the body.
Early detection is key to fighting breast cancer, which is why knowing the risk factors and symptoms is so important. Some risk factors include age, family history, genetics, and lifestyle choices like smoking or drinking. While we can’t control every risk factor, regular check-ups and staying informed can make a significant difference.
What are the Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer often develops silently, with early stages showing little to no symptoms. This makes regular breast self-exams and screenings crucial. However, as the disease progresses, noticeable changes may occur in the breast. It’s important to recognise these signs early to increase the chances of successful treatment.
Some common breast cancer symptoms to look out for:
-
Changes in the breast size, shape, or appearance
-
Dimpling or puckering on the skin of the breast
-
If the nipple turns inward
-
Unusual discharge from the nipple, especially if it's blood-stained
-
Redness, swelling, or warmth in the breast.
-
Itchy or scaly rash around the nipple.
-
Pain in the breast or nipple area that doesn’t go away though it's a very late symptom.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.
Breast Health Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we unite globally to raise awareness and show support for those affected by breast cancer. Pink ribbons become symbols of hope and breast care awareness. People participate in events such as charity runs, fundraisers, and breast health awareness campaigns. These campaigns encourage early detection by spreading information about breast health and the importance of regular screening.
Awareness leads to action. The more we talk about breast cancer and breast health awareness month, the more lives we can save through early detection.
The Struggle: Breast Cancer Treatment Options
Breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming for anyone. The road ahead may seem filled with uncertainty, fear, and pain. However, the fight against breast cancer has advanced with treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. Each journey is unique, and these treatments have physical and emotional challenges.
Many struggle with the side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, hair loss, and nausea. But through these struggles, women continue to fight, relying on inner strength, determination, and the love of those around them.
Consult our radiotherapy hospital in Dhakuria if you need more information on breast care awareness month.
The Triumph: Overcoming Challenges
Support systems are crucial during the fight against breast cancer. Family, friends, and support groups provide emotional support, encouragement, and companionship during the hardest days. A positive mind set is equally powerful. Many survivors credit their recovery to mental resilience and refusing to let cancer define their lives. Breast cancer survivors show us the incredible human capacity to face adversity and rise above it.
Consult our radiation oncologist in Dhakuria if you need treatment and care for breast cancer.
How to Prevent Breast Cancer?
Preventing breast cancer may not always be possible, but we can reduce the risks by leading a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are vital steps towards maintaining breast health.
Regular mammograms and self-breast examinations or clinical breast exams are crucial for breast health or early detection. Women over 40 should have a mammogram every other year & continue through age 74 and those at higher risk may need more frequent check-ups. There are also many resources available for breast cancer screenings, so there’s no reason to delay.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam?
A breast self-exam is one of the simplest ways to monitor breast health. It should be done regularly, around the same time each month, ideally after menstruation when the breasts are less tender.
Lying down
-
Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put the right arm behind your head.
-
Using your left hand, press the right breast with your fingertips, moving in small circles to feel for lumps or changes.
-
Repeat on the other side.
Standing
-
Raise your arm and check your breasts in front of a mirror.
-
Look for changes in size, shape, or texture.
-
Feel for any lumps, bumps, dimpling, or puckering of the skin.
It's important to understand that it’s not just about feeling for lumps. Changes in the nipple, like inversion or discharge, can also be warning signs.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a battle fought by many, but with awareness, support, and early detection, more women are winning the fight. Regular breast self-exams, mammograms, and healthy lifestyle choices can make a significant difference in breast health.
As we recognise Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s remember that every woman deserves to feel empowered and supported. "Yesterday I dared to struggle, today I dare to win" is not just a statement; it’s a reality for countless breast cancer survivors who continue to inspire us with their resilience and strength. Together, we can encourage early detection, raise awareness, and offer hope for a future without breast cancer.
FAQ's
Common breast cancer risk factors include family history, age, genetic mutations, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle choices such as smoking or alcohol consumption.
It is recommended to perform a monthly breast self-exam for women over the age of 20. Any unusual changes in the breast or lumps can be a sign of breast cancer. This can help to identify the stage and leads to better treatment.
Breast cancer treatments vary depending on the stage and type. Some of the common treatment options are surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies. It is always advised to consult a healthcare provider to help determine the most effective treatments.
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and undergoing regular screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams.
Yes, hereditary breast cancer accounts for about 5-10% of cases, often linked to genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. If you have a family history of breast cancer, it's important to discuss genetic testing and preventive options with your doctor.
Share this article on:
