Breast Cancer
In the journey against breast cancer, every step forward is backed by an army of support, showing that strength lies not just in the individual, but in the unity of those who stand together.
Breast Cancer
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer globally, affecting approximately one in eight women during their lifetime. It can manifest in one or both breasts and may occur in various parts of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth within the breast, which has the potential to spread to surrounding tissues. While the majority of cases occur in women, it’s important to note that men can also develop breast cancer, albeit less frequently.
Breast Cancer
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer globally, affecting approximately one in eight women during their lifetime. It can manifest in one or both breasts and may occur in various parts of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth within the breast, which has the potential to spread to surrounding tissues. While the majority of cases occur in women, it’s important to note that men can also develop breast cancer, albeit less frequently.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Women aged 45 and older are at a heightened risk of developing breast cancer. Several risk factors contribute to this risk, including:
- Increased weight
- Alcohol consumption
- Unhealthy lifestyle and diet
- Menstrual and reproductive history
- Radiation exposure
- Delayed pregnancy
- Gene mutations
- Family history of breast cancer
- Hormone therapy
Preventive Measures
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying physically active and following a balanced diet
- Reducing hormone intake
- Limiting smoking and alcohol consumption
- Avoiding birth control pills
Screening for Breast Cancer
Screening examinations for breast cancer play a crucial role in early detection, which enhances the likelihood of successful treatment:
- Mammography
- Breast ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Clinical breast exams
Symptoms & Signs
- Initially, a painless lump in the breast, which may eventually cause breast pain as it grows and involves the overlying skin.
- Skin changes such as perforation and swelling in the breast area.
- Inflammation occurring in different parts of the breast.
- Unusual nipple discharge not related to breastfeeding.
- Presence of blood coming from the nipple.
- Flaky, peeling, or scaly skin on the nipple.
- Sudden changes in breast size.
- Inverted nipple.
- Alterations in the appearance of breast tissue.
- Presence of a lump under the arm.
- Initially, a painless lump in the breast, which may eventually cause breast pain as it grows and involves the overlying skin.
- Skin changes such as perforation and swelling in the breast area.
- Inflammation occurring in different parts of the breast.
- Unusual nipple discharge not related to breastfeeding.
- Presence of blood coming from the nipple.
- Flaky, peeling, or scaly skin on the nipple.
- Sudden changes in breast size.
- Inverted nipple.
- Alterations in the appearance of breast tissue.
- Presence of a lump under the arm.
Diagnosis
Diagnostic tests for breast cancer are essential for determining the presence and aggressiveness of the disease.
Various tools and tests used in diagnosis include:
- Lab tests
- Biopsy
- MRI or Mammogram
- Staging Tests
- PET-CT
Sub-Types:
- Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
- Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC)
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC)
- Angiosarcoma of the Breast
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer
- Paget Disease of the Breast
- Phyllodes Tumors
Stages:
- Stage 0: At this stage, the disease is non-invasive, confined within the breast ducts without spreading beyond.
- Stage 1: Cancer cells have invaded surrounding breast tissue but have not spread to lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: Tumor size varies; it may be smaller than 2 centimeters and spread to nearby lymph nodes or larger than 5 centimeters but not spread yet. Lymph node involvement may or may not be present.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread beyond its origin and may involve nearby lymph nodes and tissues but has not yet reached distant organs. Stage III breast cancer is commonly referred to as locally advanced breast cancer.
- Stage 4: Metastatic breast cancer, where cancer has spread beyond the breast to distant organs such as the brain, bones, liver, lungs, or other organs.
Treatment Modalities
- Surgical Oncology:
– Lumpectomy: Removing the breast tumor and surrounding infected tissues while preserving the remainder of the breast.
– Mastectomy: Surgical removal of the entire breast or both breasts.
– Sentinel node biopsy: Removal of select lymph nodes affected by cancer for testing.
– Axillary lymph node dissection: Additional removal of lymph nodes if cancer is detected in sentinel node biopsy nodes.
– Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: Removal of the healthy breast to prevent cancer occurrence in patients with BRCA gene mutation. - Medical Oncology:
– Chemotherapy: Depending on the stage of breast cancer, chemotherapy may be recommended before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumor size, after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as primary treatment for advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
– Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC): Chemotherapy is often the first line of treatment for IBC, as it may not present with a distinct lump. - Radiation Oncology:
– Utilizes controlled radiation beams to target and destroy cancer cells or alleviate cancer-related symptoms.
Coping with Treatment:
In addition to managing the medical side effects of breast cancer therapy, patients often face financial strain from the cost of cancer care and experience emotional and social impacts. Seeking support from a counselor or a trusted family member can be instrumental in coping with treatment. Oncowin offers psycho-oncology counseling and nutritional counseling services to assist patients during their journey.
Do’s and Don’ts During Treatment:
Do’s:
- Maintain a healthy sleep schedule to support recovery.
- Engage in physical activity suitable for your condition.
- Minimize attendance at public gatherings to reduce exposure to infections.
- Practice yoga and meditation for stress relief and overall well-being.
- Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support your body’s needs during treatment.
Don’ts:
- Avoid overexerting yourself; listen to your body and rest when needed.
- Steer clear of unhealthy habits or lifestyles that may compromise your health during treatment.
- Minimize exposure to infections by avoiding crowded or unhygienic environments.
- Avoid unnecessary stressors that may negatively impact your mental and physical well-being.
- Ensure not to miss scheduled follow-up visits with your healthcare provider.
- Avoid consuming large meals, which may cause discomfort during treatment.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption for better health outcomes.
Post-Treatment Support
Breast cancer survivors may experience long-term side effects of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy. Common symptoms include menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, mood changes, depression, and anxiety. Survivors benefit from empathy, mental resilience, and support from their families. Additionally, joining breast cancer post-treatment survivorship support groups can provide valuable understanding and assistance during the recovery journey.
Follow-up Cancer Care Plan:
Following treatment, it’s crucial to request a follow-up care plan from your healthcare team. Doctors will develop a personalized plan tailored to the type and stage of cancer you have undergone treatment for. This plan typically includes regular check-ups, screenings, and other medical interventions aimed at monitoring your health and addressing any potential recurrence or side effects of treatment.
Surveillance and Monitoring for Indications of Recurrence
A key objective of follow-up care is to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence. It’s essential never to miss scheduled follow-up visits and to promptly report any symptoms that may indicate a recurrence. Cancer can reoccur because some cancer cells may remain undetected in the body, particularly in small locations that may not have responded to treatment. During follow-up care, a physician familiar with your medical history can offer personalized information regarding your risk of recurrence and appropriate monitoring strategies.
Specialists Doctors Who Care For You
Top Oncologists Providing Exceptional Care at Ahmedabad’s Leading Cancer Hospitals
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Appointment
Book your appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Get in touch to book your first appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Book your appointment
- 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nr Nikol Gam Cross Road, Nikol Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350.
- +91 9265313349
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Complex, Nr. Mahalaxmi Cross Road, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007.
- +91 9429827762
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 8153833606
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Nikol
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
Paldi
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
Nava Vadaj
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Book your appointment
Appointment
Book your appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Get in touch to book your first appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Book your appointment
- 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nr Nikol Gam Cross Road, Nikol Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350.
- +91 9265313349
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Complex, Nr. Mahalaxmi Cross Road, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007.
- +91 9429827762
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 8153833606
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Nikol
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
Paldi
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
Nava Vadaj
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Book your appointment
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Questions: Navigate Our Frequently Asked Questions Section
What is Breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in one or both breasts.
Who can get Breast cancer?
Breast cancer can affect all women, and in rare cases, men can also develop the disease.
What signs or symptoms does Breast cancer have?
The most common indication of Breast cancer is a new breast tumor or lump. Breast cancers may vary in characteristics, but they are more likely to be malignant if they are painless, firm, and have irregular borders.
Can Breast cancer be genetically inherited?
Yes, in 5-10% of cases, mutations can be inherited.
How long do I need to wait to get pregnant after treatment for Breast cancer?
Breast cancer survivors may be advised to wait at least two years after completing treatment before attempting pregnancy.
Is Breast cancer contagious?
No, Breast cancer cannot be transmitted from one person to another like the flu or cold.
After Breast cancer therapy, can I breastfeed?
Breastfeeding difficulties from the affected breast may arise after surgery, radiation, or both.
Related Articles
Informative Reads: Explore Our Collection of Related Articles