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Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breasts. Ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer and it begins in the milk ducts. Lobular carcinoma (begins in the milk lobules) and inflammatory breast cancer (begins in the breast tissue) are two other types of breast cancer.
Women aged 55 to 64 are most likely to die from advanced-stage breast cancer. About 90000 women die from breast cancer in India every year. The more alarming factor is that a large proportion of women diagnosed with breast cancer are nearly a decade younger than in Western countries. Early detection and treatment are key to improving outcomes and survival from breast cancer.
Causes of Breast Cancer
The cause of breast cancer is not fully understood. However, certain risk factors have been identified that may increase a person's chance of developing the disease.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer:
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Age
Breast cancer risk increases with age, particularly in women over 50.
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Family History
Women with a family history of breast cancer (especially a mother, sister, or daughter) are more likely to develop the disease. If a person has a family history of breast cancer, their risk of developing the disease is increased.
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Genetic Problems
Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
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Reproductive History
Women who had their first menstrual period before age 12, went through menopause after age 55, never had children, or had their first pregnancy after age 30 are at an increased risk.
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Lifestyle Habits
Women who drink alcohol, are overweight, and do not exercise regularly may be at an increased risk.
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Hormonal Issues
Certain hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills can also increase the risk.
How to Know if You Have Breast Cancer?
Several signs and symptoms may indicate the presence of breast cancer. However, not all breast cancers cause symptoms. These are:
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Look for changes in your breasts' size, shape, contour, or feel.
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Examine your breasts for lumps, dimpling of the skin, or puckering of the skin.
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Look for any changes in the appearance of your nipples, such as inversion, scaliness, or discharge.
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Check for any changes in the area around your breasts, such as redness, swelling, or warmth.
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Feel for any lumps or thickening in your armpits or collarbone area.
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with an oncologist as soon as possible. They will be able to perform an examination and possibly order additional tests, such as a mammogram or biopsy, to determine the cause of the symptoms and the best course of treatment.
Treatment of Breast Cancer
The primary goal of breast cancer treatment in Whitefield, Bangalore is to remove the tumor and prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. Treatment for breast cancer may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. The specific treatment will depend on the stage and type of breast cancer, as well as the patient's age, overall health, and preferences.
Common treatments for breast cancer include:
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Surgery
Surgery such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy is one of the most common treatments to remove a cancerous tumor. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, the surgeon may remove just the tumor or may need to remove some of the surrounding healthy tissue.
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Chemotherapy
This is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.
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Radiation Therapy
This uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells. It is mostly used in combination with chemotherapy.
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Hormone Therapy
This works by blocking the hormones that can cause cancer to grow. It is used in combination with other treatments.
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Targeted Therapy
This therapy targets specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to the growth of cancer cells.
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Immunotherapy
Often recommended in combination with other treatments, immunotherapy boosts the body's natural defenses to fight the tumor.
A surgical oncologist in Whitefield, Bangalore can help you decide which treatment option is best for you. Book an appointment with a Consultant – Oncology at Manipal Hospitals, Whitefield to find the best course of treatment.
FAQs
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How to avoid Breast Cancer?
You can avoid breast cancer risk by following a few lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and tobacco intake, and breastfeeding instead of formula feeding.
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How quickly does Breast Cancer spread?
Breast cancer can spread at different rates, depending on the type of cancer, the stage of cancer, and the individual's health. On average, it can take about 6 months for breast cancer to become double its previous size.
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Is Breast Cancer curable if caught early?
Yes, breast cancer is curable if caught early. Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can increase the chances of successful treatment and survival. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of all.
Department of Cancer Care/Oncology
Manipal Hospitals, Whitefield, Bangalore
