Getting diagnosed with breast cancer would probably be the worst nightmare for any woman. Statistics say that breast cancer happens to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women across the Indian sub-continent. Recent reports show that for a country with 17 % of the world’s population, India has higher rates of breast cancer which is only increasing with time, especially among younger women. It even accounts for nearly 25% to 31% of all cancers types that women battle in the Indian cities.
October is observed as the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to enhance awareness about the disease among the masses. Even when many are aware about this disease, very few take necessary precautions and steps to detect it at an early stage. Let us understand the disease better and find ways to prevent it.
What is Breast Cancer?
It is defined as a group of cancer cells that grow in the breast cells. It occurs when malignant tumors develop in the breast. These cells spread by tearing away from the primary tumor and enter the blood vessels or the lymph vessels. When the cancer cells navigate to other body parts and start damaging tissues and organs, the condition is termed as metastasis.
The Cause of Breast Cancer
Researchers have been trying to figure out the reasons that trigger breast cancer cell development in a woman. However, as of now, there are no proven facts to state what exactly are the causes behind this. Basically it's not a disease but rather a condition that occurs when one of the cells in the body goes haywire and starts multiplying without any control. It can occur to any woman between the age group of 35-70. Despite a healthy lifestyle, there are chances of one getting diagnosed with this condition.
Probable Risk Factors
As said, breast cancer is a condition that can happen to any woman, irrespective of her class, color, creed etc. However, women with some particular risk factors have high chances of developing breast cancer than others. The risk factors are:
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Family history of breast cancer
Ways to Cut Down the Risk Factors
Preventing breast cancer or for that matter any other cancer in general isn't possible. But you can for sure cut down the risk factors by bringing in some changes in your habits, such as:
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Try and stick with a healthy routine, and cut down excess weight
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Be active with household chores to stay physically fit
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Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
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Limit the alcohol consumption
What are the symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Every woman's breasts tend to be different and alter with growing age. Here are some of the signs that can help detecting breast cancer at an early stage:
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Formation of a lump, hard knot or tissue thickening inside the breast or the underarm area
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Endless pain in the breast or the armpit
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Breast growing either larger or lower
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Wrinkling or dimpling of the skin
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Inverted (turned in) nipples
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Blood like or clear discharge from the nipples
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Swelling under the armpits
Types of Breast Cancer Treatment
The treatments of it have been classified as local or systemic.
Local Treatment: This type removes or destroys the condition within the breast plus the surrounding regions, like the lymph nodes. The two local treatment methods are, Surgery, either mastectomy or lumpectomy and Radiation therapy.
Systemic treatments: They destroy the cancer cells present all over the body. The systemic treatment methods incorporate, Chemotherapy, Hormone therapy, and Biological therapy.
Choosing Breast Cancer Treatment: Some Tips to Remember
Though there exist some quintessential breast cancer treatment regime, but women still have choices.
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Discuss with the doctor all major risks and benefits of every treatment option.
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Know how each treatment can relate to your lifestyle.
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Seek advice from a support group to figure out the most feasible of treatment types.
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Ask the doctor about taking part in a clinical trial.
Preventing diseases like cancer is certainly inevitable, but the timely detection and sound understanding of the condition can always speed up recovery, thereby increasing the survival rate. Don't let your ignorance stake your health and life!