Early detection key to cure of breast cancer: Doctors

Hyderabad: A mammogram every year after 40 years is critical to 'curing breast cancer', according to Dr P Raghu Ram, founder and director of KIMS-Ushalakshmi Center for Breast Diseases.

"Cancer has no cure. But if detected early, especially before it grows to 5mm, then we can treat it in such a way that it can be 'cured'," said Dr Raghu during an awareness session for women of different age groups at Ravindra Bharathi in the city on Sunday.

Highlighting the importance of approaching a doctor at the first sign of cancer and right treatment method, he said: "Cancer treatment has changed a lot in last few years, becoming advanced and less invasive. For instance, previously Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology was a diagnostic tool used to evaluate lump, but now a core needle biopsy is enough which gives accurate information. It is crucial for patients to choose accurate treatment protocol," he said.

The awareness drive was held in light of the latest statistics that every four minutes one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in India and in every eight minutes a woman dies of the disease.

The meeting saw survivors share their experiences, stressing on routine check-up for early detection.

"I am a doctor but still I had not been undertaking routine check-ups. The first time I detected my cancer was when my hospital got a new mammogram machine and since I was free I went in for a routine test only to find a 9mm lesion. So, no matter how busy one is, don't neglect health," said neurologist Dr Varalakhsmi.