Breast Cancer

29th October 2024

Invasive Breast cancer cases among women in India can go up to 300,000 cases in the year 2024-2025 with around 50,000 women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In most cases, breast cancer is detected in women above 50 years of age. A little more than 15% of women can be below 50 years of age.

Defining breast cancer and growth rate

An abnormal rate of cell growth under one or both breasts. On average breast cancer spreads significantly every 6 months. In some cases, the cancer growth is very aggressive and grows faster, and in some cases of breast cancer, the growth is slow or not so aggressive. There are various factors that impact the rate of growth.

Early signs of breast cancer

There can be different symptoms of breast cancer, but some of the most common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or tumor. These lumps are mostly hard with irregular edges but at times they can have more regular edges and a softer lump.
At times the lump is very small to feel, so it is best recommended to get a mammogram done at intervals suggested by the doctor. Women above 40 years of age with a family history of breast cancer must consult with a specialist doctor and follow medical advice.
If you notice lumps consult a doctor. All lumps are not cancerous. In case the lump is growing in size, there are irregular edges, pain, and swelling if you notice any of a few of the symptoms do not be late to consult the specialist doctor.

Various types of breast cancer and common symptoms

Ductal Carcinoma, is one of the most common types of breast cancer.

Lump
Nipple discharge
Itching in the breast area
Invasive Breast Cancer
Lump in breast or around armpit
The breasts look different from each other
Rash on skin
Sores on skin
Swelling in the breast
Pain

Lobular Carcinoma

Thickening, or swelling in one area around or on the breast
Nipples become flat

Metastatic Breast Cancer

Pain in bone
Pain in head
Problem with brain function
Breathing trouble
Swelling around the belly
Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Double vision
Nausea
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Muscle weakness

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Lump
Swelling
Pain in the breast or nipple
Skin gets dimpled, dry, red, or thick
Discharge
Nipples turn inward

Steps to reduce the risk of breast cancer

Maintaining a healthy weight
Regular screening and check-ups at the set on pre-menopause or as per medical advice by the doctor
Regular workout, walking, etc
Limiting or avoiding alcohol
Quit or avoid smoking
Breastfeeding: Doctors recommend breastfeeding for at least a year.
Getting regular breast cancer screenings: Consult with the specialist doctor – gynecologist and follow medical advice on screening and medical tests to be done.
Consume a balanced diet
Efficient stress management

Desun Hospital’s Department of Gynecology and Oncology has modern facilities for preventive care, OPD consultation, and the latest medical tests. Desun Hospital has experienced and well-qualified oncologists available at the OPD. Get all medical tests under one roof. Desun Hospital is one of the best hospitals for preventive cancer care and oncology OPD, medical management, oncology tests, and cancer surgeries.