Raising Breast Cancer Awareness

In a world, where awareness is a key to fostering health and well-being, understanding breast cancer becomes paramount. Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a beacon of hope and knowledge, reminding women in India and around the world that they can take control of their breast health. 

Cancer:

A tumor can be cancerous or benign. A cancerous tumor is malignant, which means, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body. A benign tumor means that the tumor can grow but will not spread. 

Side-by-side representation of normal and
cancerous cells in the body [Photo Courtesy: google/Cleveland Clinic]

What is Breast Cancer? 

Breast Cancer is a group of malignant cells in the breast. If left untreated the cancer spreads to other areas of the body. A tumor is a mass or sheet of cells that forms when healthy cells in the breast alter and proliferate uncontrollably. This is the first stage of cancer.  

Breast cancer  awareness [Photo Courtesy: google/ System UX]

Rising Incidence 

India is on an alarming trajectory where breast cancer is concerned. It has become the most common cancer among Indian women, surpassing cervical cancer. In 2020, an estimated 1,80,000 Indians were diagnosed with breast cancer. India accounts for 12.78% of all breast cancer cases worldwide and 10.6% of related deaths. The numbers are alarming, emphasizing the urgency for awareness.

Breast cancer statistics where India is concerned
[Photo Courtesy: google/ Moore for State Rep]

Causes of Breast Cancer 

Certain breast cells start growing abnormally when breast cancer develops. These cells can spread through the breast to lymph nodes or other parts of the body because they divide more quickly than healthy cells. Although it can also start in the lobules or other breast tissue, the milk-producing ducts are the most common site of breast cancer initiation. Most of the time, it's unclear what turns healthy breast cells into cancer.

Sign and Symptoms 

Early detection is crucial for better treatment options and a higher chance of a cure. Most breast lumps are not cancerous, yet the most common sign of breast cancer for both men and women is a lump or thickening in the breast. Often the lump is painless. Other indicators include spontaneous discharge from the nipple, retraction or indentation of the nipple, changes in breast size or contours, and redness or pitting of the skin over the breast. Breast tissue changes naturally during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle.

Early Detection Saves Lives 

Regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms aid in early detection, providing a better chance for successful treatment. 

    

Know Your Risk  

Understanding your personal risk factors, such as family history, genetics, and lifestyle choices, can empower you to take proactive steps for your breast health.  

 

Regular Screening 

 

Women should adhere to recommended screening guidelines, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, as advised by healthcare professionals.  

Breast Self-Examinations 

Every woman should learn how to perform breast self-examinations, correctly and make it a regular habit. Any unusual changes should be promptly reported to a healthcare provider.  

Healthy Lifestyle Choices 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by limiting alcohol consumption, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding hormone replacement therapy can reduce breast cancer risk.  

Access to Healthcare 

Advocate for improved access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas, to ensure that all women have the opportunity for early detection and treatment.   

Whenever in doubt, seek professional advice [Photo Courtesy: Pinterest/ m.lovethispic.com]

By spreading awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering a culture of proactive health management, we can strive towards a future where breast cancer is detected early, treated effectively, and survival rates are significantly improved. This October, let's empower ourselves and our loved ones with knowledge and action in the fight against breast cancer.  

 

Author:

Mr. Soumik Gain 
Dip. M.P,

Medical Physicist

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Cancer Hospital, Kolkata 

 

Edited By:

Priyanka Ghosh

Uploaded By:

Enakshi Ganguly