'Early detection is key to success of breast cancer' : Dr Abhijit Thakur, Laparoscopic Surgeon,Cumballa Hill Hospital

On the occasion of world cancer day we must pledge to a healthy lifestyle to reduce risk of cancers. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide with over 1.3 million new cases per year. India is catching up to this trend of developed countries with increasing levels of urbanisation.
India is undergoing a period of dramatic social and economic change. Cancer is now the second leading cause of death in Indians after cardiovascular disease. Amongst women cervical cancer is still the most frequently diagnosed cancer but breast cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in urban Indian women. The reasons for the recent observed increase in incidence of breast cancer in the Indian population are not clearly understood but thought to be largely explained by ‘westernisation’ of lifestyles and changes in reproductive behaviour.
We must choose a healthy lifestyle to reduce risk of breast cancer. Women can take several steps to reduce their risks by maintaining a healthy weight, eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoid smoking, limit their alcohol intake and prevent unreasonable exposure to female hormone estrogen. At the same time regular self breast examination followed by periodic breast examinations performed by a physician is key to detect breast cancer at early curable stage. Mammography should be done on advice of your physician.
Being female is the biggest risk factor in developing breast cancer. About 5 percent to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are believed to be the result of abnormal genes and rest could be controlled by avoiding some known risk factors. The avoidable risk factors, which increase your risk of breast cancer are high BMI, early age at first child birth, nulliparity or no children, no breast feeding, number of unsuccessful pregnancies (abortions), alcohol and smoking.
Early detection is key to success of breast cancer treatment. Self breast examination, physical examination by a doctor and awareness of presenting symptoms of breast cancer in population are major factors in Breast cancer screening. A lump felt by the patient or during routine physical examination or mammography should be immediately attended by a qualified physician. Occasionally breast cancer may present with skin changes in nipple including erythema, crusting, scaling, and discharge. Don't neglect but don't get scared, 90 percent of times the breast findings are benign or not harmful.
Today breast cancer is most researched and talked about subject as urbanization is increasing its incidence. Time has come to get rid of all the myths about breast cancer and act towards avoiding risks by choosing healthy lifestyle. Early detection is key and self awareness is major factor. Treatment of Breast cancer is multimodal safe and effective, targeted modes have reduced morbidity of treatment drastically.