Tag: Breast cancer

Dr. Rajanigandha Tudu, Medical Oncologist, Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, supported by Tata Trusts explains three fundamental aspects of breast self-examination…reports Asian Lite News

While India is grappling with a growing cancer incidence rate, we have also been at the forefront of several innovations in cancer care and treatment. The critical solution to overcoming the challenges posed by this disease, however, lies in keeping our communities informed about its symptoms. 

Currently, 1.4 million (14 lakh) new cancer cases are detected each year and projections are that it will increase to 2 million (20 lakh) by 2040. It is also important to note that in contrast to the global landscape, where 70% of cancers are detected early, India presents a unique scenario, with 70% of cases diagnosed at an advanced stage. Particularly concerning is the situation of breast cancer. Even though it is easily screenable, nearly 60% of cases in India are diagnosed at stage III or IV. Societal taboos often stifle open conversations about women’s health, contributing to delayed diagnosis. 

To this end, a pivotal step in detecting breast cancer early lies in empowering women with information to recognize and address any irregularities in their breasts through regular self-examinations. Lumps can be the initial sign of breast cancer and can be easily detected through a self-breast exam. 

While not all lumps are cancerous, it is essential to rule out the possibility through clinical screening.

Dr. Rajanigandha Tudu, Medical Oncologist, Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, supported by Tata Trusts explains three fundamental aspects of breast self-examination: 

Consistency Check: Feel for the general size and shape consistency of both breasts

Skin Examination: Look for puckering or dimpling on the skin

Nipple Inspection: Inspect for any discharge from the nipples

Here’s how you can self-examine your breasts: 

Step 1: Use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) and apply varying pressure – light, medium, firm –  to feel the breast tissues.

Step 2: Place your right hand on the back of your head and use the three middle fingers of your left hand to gently press down on the right breast.

Step 3: Start navigating at the outer edges of your breast and move in a circular motion toward the nipple. Cover the entire breast in this motion and then move from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen

Step 4: Feel the breast tissue for any abnormalities – lumps, thickening, or changes in texture 

Step 5: Gently squeeze the nipple to check for discharge and also check for changes in the appearance or direction of the nipples 

Step 6: Repeat the process for the left breast

Undertaking a breast self-examination is more than just a routine; it is a promise to prioritize your well-being as well as an essential step in understanding the symptoms of a disease that can be fatal, if not detected early. Promptly responding to any changes, lumps, or irregularities that you come across during self-examination is crucial. It’s a monthly proactive step that should be followed by a clinical breast examination every three years, thereby ensuring early and timely detection. 

Remember, every conversation and every self-examination has the potential to be life-saving. 

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A notable 23 percent screened with Mammography was found to have some abnormality and underwent further evaluation with histopathology. 11.2 percent of these were diagnosed with breast cancer…reports Asian Lite News

Over 25% of breast cancer diagnosis are in women less than 40 years of age, finds healthcare provider, Apollo. Analysing close to 150,000 screenings over the past five years, the data also showed that the median age of breast cancer incidence among Indian women is almost ten years earlier than in Western countries like the USA and UK. This highlights a critical need for increasing awareness and early intervention through screening and diagnosis among Indian women.

Key findings from screenings:

Earlier Onset of Breast Cancer: A striking 25 percent of breast cancer cases among Indian women occurred at the age of 39 years or less. The recorded minimum age at the time of breast cancer diagnosis is 23 years.

Consistent Average Age: Apollo’s data consistently indicated breast cancer diagnosis among Indian women is at an average age of 53 years, notably lower than the median age of 62 years in Western countries like the USA and UK.

Median Age (2018-2023): 53 years

Median Age (2018-2021): 53 years

Median Age (Jan 2022 – Aug 2023): 52 years

Significant Positive Predictive Value: A notable 23 percent screened with Mammography was found to have some abnormality and underwent further evaluation with histopathology. 11.2 percent of these were diagnosed with breast cancer.

Commenting on this, Dr Sathya Sriram, CEO – of preventive Health, Apollo, said, “Global guidelines have advocated for initiating regular breast cancer screening at the age of 40 years. However, the evolving landscape and these findings necessitate a re-evaluation of these guidelines, especially for Indian women. The misconception that cancer is an improbable cause of health issues in younger age groups often results in delayed diagnoses, potentially leading to missed opportunities for early intervention, better outcomes, and survival rates. I urge women across the nation to prioritize timely screenings and also encourage physicians to personalise their recommendation to patients, especially if they have a family history of cancer.”

Dr. Manjula Rao, Breast Cancer Specialist and Oncoplastic Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), stated, “More than sixty percent of breast cancer patients in India present in more advanced stages, with increased breast cancer-related mortality when compared to the West, which reports lower mortality rate, despite higher incidence of the disease. This highlights the relevance of public awareness and breast cancer screening, which helps in early detection. I would like to emphasize that early detection is paramount in the fight against breast cancer, and we at APCC have achieved a great level of success in treating breast cancer diagnosed in the early stages. We have accomplished breast conservation rates 60 percent, and are able to de-escalate therapy as per global evidence-based guidelines, hence offering our patients superior quality of life outcomes.”

By prioritizing routine check-ups and adopting a vigilant stance toward breast health, women can be empowered to take charge of their well-being. A few measures Apollo recommends include:

Breast self-exams every month starting at age 20 to familiarise yourself with any changes that may occur over time, including lumps, skin changes, or discharge.

Starting at age 30, women should have an annual clinical breast exam by a doctor or a trained healthcare professional. For those under 40, a combination of tests, including a clinical exam and ultrasound, is recommended. Yearly visits to the doctor for a tailored breast health screening plan are advisable, which may also include a mammogram and MRI based on individual risk factors.

Annual mammograms starting from the age of 40.

Over and above, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, minimal alcohol consumption, and no tobacco consumption can play a preventive role.

Lastly, family history can be a significant indicator of breast cancer risk. By age 25, or earlier if cancer is prevalent in your family, a full understanding of family health history should be compiled. Genetic testing is an invaluable tool for individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Consider undergoing genetic tests like BRCA1/BRCA2 testing as early as age 25 if you fall into this high-risk category.

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