Why Is Breast Cancer Awareness So Important?

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. Unlike some cancer, breast cancer is not a transmissible or infectious disease. It can occur in both men and women, but it's far more common in women.

Why Is Breast Cancer Awareness Important?

Awareness surrounding breast cancer is incredibly important as early detection, often through screening, can catch the disease when it is most treatable. It is the leading type of cancer among Indian women, taking up 26.3% of all cancers in women. Reports say that around 60% of breast cancer cases in India get diagnosed at an advanced stage, which is why raising awareness on this subject among local masses is very important.

Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

● Breast cancer can be both caught and treated early! Please do not ignore symptoms, which include:

● A lump or lumps in the breast

● Swelling (can occur even without a lump being felt)

● Changes to the nipples (pain, turning inward, redness, dryness, thicker texture)

● Dimpling in the skin or irritation

● Discharge from the nipple area

● A change to the size or shape of the breast

Breast Cancer Risk Factors

The main risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman and getting older. Majority of breast cancer cases are found in women aged 55 and older. Factors that may increase the risk include:

● Personal/ family history

● Race

● Breast density

● Menstrual period history

There are also certain lifestyle related risk-factors which include:

● use of birth control pills

● Hormone therapy after menopause

● Drinking alcohol

● Obesity and not being physically active.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Typically, there are 3 type of tests used in detecting breast cancer and each has its own benefits and risks. Women should talk with their doctor regarding the best option for them. They are:

● Mammogram

● Breast Ultrasound

● A breast MRI

Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is treated in several ways. The type of treatment depends on the kind of breast cancer and how far it has spread. People with breast cancer often get more than one kind of treatment.

• Surgery An operation where doctors cut out cancer tissue.

• Chemotherapy Using special medicines to shrink or kill the cancer cells.

• Hormonal therapyBlocks cancer cells from getting the hormones they need to grow.

• Biological therapyWorks with your body’s immune system to help it fight cancer cells

• Radiation therapyUsing high-energy rays (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer cells.

Which Treatment Is Right for Me?

Choosing the right treatment may be hard. So, consult a cancer specialist and ask about the treatment options available for your type and stage of cancer. The doctor can explain risks and benefits of each treatment and their side effects.

Lower Risk of Breast Cancer:

While there is no way to prevent breast cancer, but you can avoid some known risk factors and work toward early detection. Risk of breast cancer can be reduced by -

• Self-breast examinations are necessary and should be performed about once a month

• Maintaining a healthy weight and balancing your food intake with physical activity to avoid excess weight gain.

• Being physically active by getting at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity every.

• Limit or avoid alcohol.

• Breastfeeding can significantly reduce the possibility of developing breast cancer.

• Women at average breast cancer risk should begin screening at age 40.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a common disease that affects women worldwide. Its symptoms can be easily identified at an early stage and be treated with higher rates of success.

Sources: Doc Online, Health One Medicine, Fox Chase, National Breast Cancer

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on October 31, 2022