Breast Cancer Doctor in Kolkata
Breast cancer is a major health issue affecting women worldwide, but it can also occur in men. It starts in the cells of the breast, and while it can be life-threatening, many patients can live long, fulfilling lives with early detection and treatment. Understanding breast cancer with its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options is essential for effective management. The breast oncologist in Kolkata, is dedicated to providing thorough care for those suffering from this condition to improve the breast cancer recovery rate.
Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
It is necessary to recognise the early signs of breast cancer to make a better treatment plan. Here are some common symptoms:
Breast Lump
One of the most common signs is a breast cancer lump in the breast or underarm area. This lump may feel hard, irregular, or different from the surrounding tissue.
Changes in Size or Shape
If one breast looks different from the other, it’s worth getting checked.
Nipple Changes
Any unusual changes around the nipple, such as a discharge (which may be clear or bloody), inversion of the nipple, or rash, should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Skin Changes
Look for skin changes on the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or a texture change similar to the skin of an orange.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult the doctor as soon as possible.
Causes of Breast Cancer
The exact causes of breast cancer can be unnoticeable, but several factors can increase the risk:
Genetics
A family history of breast cancer can significantly increase the risk. Mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are known to be linked to breast cancer.
Hormonal Factors
Prolonged exposure to estrogen can influence breast cancer risk. This exposure can come from early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy.
Age
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly after 55.
Lifestyle Factors
Factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking can also contribute to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Early detection through regular screening is crucial for improving the breast cancer survival rate. Here are the key diagnostic methods:
Mammograms
These are X-ray images of the breast that can help detect tumours before they can be felt. Women are generally recommended to start regular mammograms at age 40.
Ultrasound
This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the breast, often used to further evaluate a lump detected during a mammogram.
Biopsy
If a breast cancer lump is detected, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether it is cancerous. This involves taking a small sample of breast tissue for examination.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can provide detailed images of the breast and is sometimes used for high-risk patients or to better assess the extent of cancer.
Breast Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment for breast cancer often depends on the stage of the disease, the type of breast cancer, and the general well-being of the patients. Common treatment options include:
Chemotherapy
This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The specific breast cancer chemotherapy plan will depend on the cancer’s characteristics.
Radiation Therapy
This treatment uses high-energy waves to target and kill cancer cells, often used to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
Hormone Therapy
For cancers that are hormone receptor-positive, medications can block the body’s natural hormones from supporting the growth of cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
This approach uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells without affecting normal cells, often based on the genetic makeup of the tumour.
Breast Cancer Staging
This type of cancer can be staged using the breast cancer TNM staging system, which considers the size of the tumour (T), whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes (N), and whether there are distant metastases (M). Breast cancer stages range from Stage 0 to Stage 4, indicating its extent.
- Stage 0 is non-invasive
- Stage 1 features small tumors that have not spread.
- Stage 2 involves larger tumors or limited lymph node spread.
- Stage 3 indicates locally advanced cancer with significant lymph node involvement.
- Stage 4 is metastatic breast cancer, where the cancer spreads to distant organs.
Understanding these stages helps guide treatment options and prognosis.
Breast cancer remains a significant health condition, but with advances in detection and treatment, many patients can lead fulfilling lives after diagnosis. If you have concerns about breast cancer, consult with the breast oncologist in Kolkata to get the most suitable treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is stage 1 breast cancer curable?
Yes, Stage 1 breast cancer is highly curable, with a five-year survival rate exceeding 90%. At this stage, the cancer is small and localized, making it more manageable through various treatment options, including surgery, radiation, and possibly chemotherapy or hormonal therapy.
How long can a breast cancer patient live?
The lifespan of a breast cancer patient can vary widely based on several factors, including the cancer stage at diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment, and the patient’s overall health. For patients diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, the five-year survival rate is generally high, often exceeding 90%. However, for advanced stages, survival rates can decrease significantly.
How to avoid breast cancer?
To reduce the risk of breast cancer, women can adopt several healthy lifestyle choices, including maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, women should consider regular screenings and self-examinations, especially if they have a family history of breast cancer.
How to check breast cancer at home?
To check for breast cancer at home, women should perform regular breast self-exams. This involves looking for any unusual changes, such as lumps, swelling, or skin texture changes in the breast and underarm areas. It’s also important to gently feel the entire breast in circular motions, including the armpits, to detect any hard or unusual areas.
Is grade 2 breast cancer curable?
Yes, grade 2 breast cancer is generally considered curable, especially when detected early and treated promptly. The prognosis often depends on various factors, including the specific characteristics of the tumour and the overall health of the patient.