Breast Cancer: What it is?

 Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breast tissue. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide and the second most common cancer overall. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer. You can take consultation with an experienced breast cancer oncologist specialist in Delhi.

Causes of Breast Cancer:

The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but there are several risk factors that may increase a woman's chances of developing the disease. These risk factors include age, gender, family history of breast cancer, inherited gene mutations, hormonal imbalances, exposure to radiation, alcohol consumption, and obesity. Women who have never been pregnant or who had their first pregnancy after age 30 may also have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer:

In its early stages, breast cancer may not cause any symptoms, or the symptoms may be mild and easily overlooked. As cancer grows and spreads, however, women may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area

Swelling or redness of the breast

Nipple discharge or inversion

Changes in the texture or appearance of the breast or nipple

Pain or tenderness in the breast

These symptoms may be caused by other conditions as well, but if they persist for more than a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer:

Diagnosing breast cancer typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsy. A doctor may perform a breast exam and order imaging tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether the tissue is cancerous or not.

Stages of Breast Cancer:

Once breast cancer is diagnosed, it is staged to determine the extent of the cancer and the best course of treatment. Breast cancer is typically classified into five stages:

Stage 0: Abnormal cells are present, but they have not invaded surrounding tissue.

Stage I: Cancer is small and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage II: Cancer may be larger and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage III: Cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other nearby tissue.

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones or liver.

Treatment of Breast Cancer:

The treatment for breast cancer depends on the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the woman's age and overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these.

Surgery is often the first step in treating breast cancer, and it may involve removing the cancerous tissue or the entire breast, depending on the extent of cancer. Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or kill any remaining cancer cells. Hormone therapy may be used to block the effects of estrogen or progesterone, which can fuel the growth of some breast cancers. Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

Prevention of Breast Cancer:

While there is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk. These include:

Regular breast exams and mammograms

Maintaining a healthy weight

Exercising regularly

Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables

Limiting alcohol consumption

Avoiding tobacco use

Knowing your family history and discussing it with your doctor

In conclusion, breast cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of women every year. It is important for women to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms. So if you’re feeling any kind of symptoms, feel free to contact the best oncologist for breast cancer in south Delhi.