Everything about it
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow abnormally and out of control. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide and can also occur in men, although it is much less common.
Breast cancer can develop in different parts of the breast, including the ducts, lobules, or other tissue. There are several types of breast cancer, including ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), and inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), among others.
The type of breast cancer and the stage at which it is diagnosed will determine the treatment options and the prognosis.
There are several risk factors associated with breast cancer, including age, gender, family history, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), early onset of menstruation or late menopause, exposure to oestrogen, and obesity. However, it's important to note that having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will definitely develop breast cancer.
Breast cancer can present with different symptoms, such as a lump or mass in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, breast pain or tenderness, nipple discharge or inversion, and skin changes such as redness, scaling, or thickening. However, some people with breast cancer may not experience any symptoms at all, which is why regular breast cancer screening is so important.
Mammography is the most common screening tool for breast cancer, and it involves taking X-ray images of the breast to detect any abnormalities. Ultrasound and MRI are other imaging tests that can be used to help diagnose breast cancer. If imaging tests reveal an abnormality, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm whether it is cancerous.
If a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, treatment options will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as other factors such as age, overall health, and personal preferences. Surgery is often the first-line treatment for breast cancer and may involve a lumpectomy (removal of the tumour and surrounding tissue) or a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy are other treatment options for breast cancer. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells, while targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth. Hormonal therapy is used for breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive, meaning that they are fuelled by estrogen or progesterone.
Dr. Harish Kancharla, a medical oncologist at Yashoda Hospital, Somajiguda, is an expert in treating breast cancer and other types of cancer. With years of experience and expertise in medical oncology, Dr. Kancharla can provide personalized treatment options tailored to the needs and circumstances of each patient. He believes in providing comprehensive care and support to his patients, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or have concerns about your breast health, Dr. Kancharla can provide guidance and support. Contact his office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.