Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. Lumps are the first warning sign of a tumor, but apart from this, there are a few more symptoms that one should look out for.
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to a recent ICMR study, breast cancer cases and deaths are expected to increase in India by 2045. According to the ICMR, breast cancer cases will account for 28.2 percent of all female cancers in the India in 2022. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer in India is 66.4 percent. Being aware is essential to be able to identify any symptoms and treat them as soon as possible. October is celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India. With a high mortality rate, it is a major public health problem in the country.
While the most common presentation of breast cancer is a lump in the breast, it can occur even without any noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms of breast cancer
“Although the most common presentation of breast cancer is a lump in the breast, it can also present as swelling or lumps under the arm or near the collarbone, nipple discharge (clear, bloody, or yellowish), skin changes over the breast. breast (dimpled, thickened). , or looks like an orange peel),” Dr Abhishek Shankar, assistant professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rotary Cancer Hospital, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute, AIIMS, Delhi, told IANS.
“Redness or rash on the skin of the breast or nipple, inverted nipple, changes in the size and shape of the breast and pain in the breast” are also symptoms of this deadly cancer, the doctor added.
Breast cancer can be detected and diagnosed early. It can be detected early with screening tests and mammography is the recommended standard screening test that provides an advantage in terms of mortality. According to updated guidelines from the US Preventive Services Task Force in 2024, it is recommended to start at age 40 every 2 years.
Common signs and symptoms, in addition to breast lumps, include changes in the shape or contour of the breasts, making mirror exams helpful.
“Skin changes, such as redness and pain, are common when the tumor grows into the skin. In metastatic cancers, widespread symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, back pain, or pain in the upper right part of the abdomen may occur,” Sehra said.
Breast cancer prevention
“In high-risk people, chemoprophylaxis with hormonal tablets can help reduce risk, but it is generally not recommended because it is not cost-effective and also has side effects,” Shankar said. Experts also recommended genetic testing in case of family history.
Other ways to prevent the risk include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a diet rich in fiber and antioxidants, avoiding alcohol and red meat.
(With IANS inputs)
