Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in India (apart from Benz Hospital Santacruz ) and the second most common cancer to cause death in women, after Lung Cancer.
Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of the cells lining the breast lobules or ducts. These cells grow uncontrollably and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Both men and women can develop breast cancer, although it is uncommon in men. Transwomen, non-binary people can also get breast cancer.
Transgender and gender-diverse people can also get breast cancer. A transgender woman taking medication to lower male hormones and boost female hormones may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
It is estimated that more than 1,78,000 people were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 62 years old.
Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in India.
Breast cancer signs and symptoms
Some people have no symptoms and the cancer is found during a screening mammogram or a physical examination by a doctor.
If you do have symptoms, they could include:
new lumps or thickening in the breast, especially if in only one breast
nipple sores, change in shape of the nipple.
nipple discharge or turning in
changes in the size or shape of the breast
skin of the breast dimpling
discomfort or swelling in the armpit
rash or red swollen breasts
ongoing pain that is not related to your menstrual cycle that remains after your period and occurs in only one breast.
Causes of breast cancer
Some factors that increase your risk of breast cancer include:
increasing age
family history
inheritance of mutations in the genes BRCA2, BRCA1 (more common with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage) and CHEK2
exposure to female hormones (natural and administered)
starting your period before the age of 12
a previous breast cancer diagnosis
a past history of certain non-cancerous breast conditions.
Lifestyle factors that can also slightly increase the risk of breast cancer in men and women include:
being overweight
not enough physical activity
drinking alcohol.
There is also an association with some benign breast disease and past exposure to radiation.
Diagnosis of breast cancer
Tests to diagnose breast cancer may include:
Physical examination
If you notice any breast changes or a mammogram shows something suspicious, your GP will perform a physical examination, checking both breast and the lymph nodes above your collar bone and above your arms. Your GP will also ask about your medical history and any family history of breast cancer.
Mammogram
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray that can find changes that are too small to be felt during a physical examination. You should let staff know if you have breast implants before you have the mammogram.
Ultrasound
If a mammogram picks up breast changes you may have an ultrasound. This is a painless scan using soundwaves to make a picture of your breast.
Biopsy
If breast cancer is suspected, a doctor removes some of the breast tissue for examination by a pathologist under a microscope.
Other scans
If cancer is detected in your breast, you may have additional scans to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body, such as a CT scan or MRI scan.
After a diagnosis of breast cancer
After finding out you have breast Cancer, you may feel shocked, upset, anxious or confused. These are normal responses. Talk about your treatment options with your doctor, family and friends. Seek as much information as you need....
Dr. Sandeep Bipte
MBBS, MS, Fellow Breast Cancer Surgery MCH-Surgical Oncology
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