Medanta is considered one of the best hospital groups for breast cancer treatment for several reasons:
Multidisciplinary approach: Medanta offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer..
Medanta is considered one of the best hospital groups for breast cancer treatment for several reasons:
Multidisciplinary approach: Medanta offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment, which involves a team of experts, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and breast surgeons. The team works together to develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
Advanced technology: Medanta is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The hospital has advanced imaging equipment such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI machines, as well as modern radiation therapy machines and robotic surgical systems.
Experienced doctors: Medanta has some of the most experienced breast cancer specialists in India. The hospital's team of doctors has vast experience in treating breast cancer and has performed numerous successful surgeries.
Patient-centric care: Medanta provides patient-centric care, with a focus on the emotional well-being of patients. The hospital has a supportive team of nurses, counselors, and patient advocates who work together to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Comprehensive support services: Medanta offers comprehensive support services to patients and their families, including nutritional counseling, physical therapy, and support groups. The hospital also provides guidance and assistance with financial and insurance matters.
Overall, Medanta is considered one of the best hospital groups for breast cancer treatment due to its commitment to providing personalized, multidisciplinary care using advanced technology and a patient-centric approach.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women, accounting for 27% of all cancers in women1.
Every year, around 1.5 lakh new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in India2, and the number is expected to increase in the coming years due to various factors such as a more inclination toward a sedentary lifestyle, eating habits, urbanization, and an aging population. It is estimated that 1 in 28 women in India is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime3.
Early detection is crucial in the treatment of breast cancer. However, in India, many cases of breast cancer are detected at an advanced stage, which makes treatment more difficult and reduces the chances of survival. Therefore, it is necessary for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to undergo regular screening tests such as mammography to detect the disease at an early stage.
Breast cancer is classified into several types based on the type of affected cells. The following are the most common types of breast cancer:
• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): This is a non-invasive breast cancer, which begins in the breast's milk ducts. DCIS is considered to be an early form of breast cancer, as the abnormal cancerous cells have not yet spread beyond the ducts.
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): IDC is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for 80% of all breast cancer cases. IDC starts in the breast's milk ducts, but the abnormal cancerous cells have spread beyond the ducts and into the surrounding breast tissue.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This type of breast cancer begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. ILC accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancers.
• Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): This is an aggressive form of breast cancer that is negative for estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). TNBC is more common in younger women, African American women, and women with a BRCA1 gene mutation.
• HER2-positive Breast Cancer: This type of breast cancer is positive for the HER2 protein, which helps in the growth of the cancer cells. HER2-positive breast cancer is a more aggressive breast cancer than other types but is also a treatable tumor. The doctor suggests targeted therapy for this type of cancer.
There are other less common types of breast cancers, such as inflammatory breast cancer, male breast cancer, and Paget's disease of the breast.
The most common symptoms of breast cancer are:
• Single or multiple lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm area
• Noticeable change in the size or shape of the breast
• Nipple discharge (Blood stained) or retraction (turning inward)
• Skin changes on the breast, such as dimpling, redness, or scaling
• Breast pain or tenderness
• Non Healing ulcer on nipple (Paget’s disease)
Sometimes breast cancer may also cause some symptoms outside the breast area. These can include:
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Bone pain
• Shortness of breath or cough
However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions and are not necessarily indicate breast cancer. It is crucial to note that not all breast lumps are cancerous, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all. However, if you notice any changes in your breasts, it is essential to get them checked by a doctor.
It's also worth noting that some breast cancers can be detected on a mammogram before any symptoms are present. That's why regular mammograms are recommended for women over the age of 40, or earlier for women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors.
Early detection is the key to successful breast cancer treatment, so it's crucial to be aware of any changes in your breasts and to undergo regular screening tests.
Breast cancer is a complex disease with multiple factors contributing to its development. Here are some of the known risk factors and causes of breast cancer:
• Age: The risk of breast cancer increases as a woman gets older.
• Gender: Women are more prone to developing breast cancer than men. Although rarely, men can also encounter breast cancer.
• Family history and genetics: Women with a family history of breast cancer or certain gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
• Hormonal factors: Women who began menstruating at an early age, had their first child at an older age, or went through menopause at a later age have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
• Personal history of breast cancer: Women who had a history of breast cancer in one breast have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the same or/and other breasts.
• Radiation exposure: Women who have received radiation therapy to the chest area for another cancer have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in saturated fats may increase the risk of breast cancer.
It is crucial to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that a person will definitely develop breast cancer. Many women who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors, and some women with multiple risk factors never develop breast cancer. Therefore, it is essential to undergo regular breast cancer screening and to discuss any concerns with a doctor.
While there is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer, there are certain steps, which can help women to reduce their risk of developing the disease. Here are some tips for breast cancer prevention:
• Maintain a healthy weight: Having extra pounds around your waist or being obese can increase the risk of breast cancer, especially after menopause. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2006 found that women who maintained a healthy weight had a lower risk of developing breast cancer.
• Limit alcohol intake: According to various studies, drinking alcohol, especially more than one drink a day, can increase the risk of breast cancer. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2013 found that even moderate alcohol consumption (up to one drink per day) was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
• Breastfeed if possible: Numerous types of research concluded that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, especially if a woman breastfeeds for at least a year. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2002 found that women who breastfed for at least a year had a lower risk of developing breast cancer than women who did not breastfeed.
• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of various chronic diseases, including breast cancer. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2010 found that physically active women had a 12% lower risk of developing breast cancer than sedentary women.
• Get regular mammograms: Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms appear. Women over the age of 40 should undergo regular mammograms as recommended by their doctor. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2014 found that mammography screening can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by up to 40%.
• Know your family history: Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to start mammography screening earlier than age 40 or undergo other tests to monitor their breast health. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in 2006 found that women with a family history of breast cancer who had regular mammography screening had a lower risk of dying from breast cancer than women who did not undergo screening.
It is crucial to remember that breast cancer prevention is not 100% guaranteed, and some cancer risk factors cannot be changed. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss individual risk and screening options with a specialist.
The accuracy of breast cancer diagnostic methods can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and location of the tumor, the type of breast tissue, and the experience of the healthcare provider performing the test. Breast cancer can be diagnosed through a variety of methods, such as:
• Mammography: Mammography is an X-ray of the breast tissue, which can detect numerous breast abnormalities, such as lumps or calcifications, which may indicate the presence of breast cancer. Doctors typically recommend mammograms for women over the age of 40 and may recommend them earlier for women with certain risk factors. It is a non-invasive procedure and can detect tumors that are too small to be felt. The accuracy of mammography can vary depending on several factors, including the breast tissue density and the experience of the healthcare provider interpreting the results. Overall, mammography has a sensitivity of about 85% in detecting breast cancer.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce detailed images of the breast tissue, which can help detect abnormalities that may not be visible on a mammogram. Ultrasound may be used with mammography or as a standalone diagnostic tool for breast cancer. It is a non-invasive procedure and can provide more detailed information about the size and location of a tumor. The accuracy of ultrasound can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, but it is generally considered a highly accurate method.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of breast tissues. It can help detect various abnormalities, which may not be visible on a mammogram or ultrasound. MRI may be recommended for women with a high risk of breast cancer or for a detailed evaluation of the abnormalities detected on mammography or ultrasound. MRI is a highly-sensitive procedure for detecting breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue or a high risk of developing breast cancer. However, it is more expensive and time-consuming than other diagnostic methods.
• Biopsy: Biopsy is the most accurate diagnostic procedure for breast cancer, as it allows for an extracted tissue sample to be examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present. The accuracy of a biopsy can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but it is generally a very accurate procedure. The biopsy can be performed using a needle or through a surgical procedure. A biopsy is the definitive diagnostic test for breast cancer.
• Clinical breast exam: A clinical breast exam is a physical exam of the breast tissue performed by a healthcare provider. During the exam, the provider will feel for lumps or other abnormalities in the breast tissue. Clinical breast exams are generally considered less accurate than other imaging tests, as tumors can be hard to detect by touch alone. However, they can be useful for detecting changes in the breast tissue that may require further evaluation. The accuracy of clinical breast exams can vary depending on the experience of the healthcare provider performing the exam.
Stages of breast cancer are classified according to the size and extent of the tumor, as well as whether or not cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The most commonly used system for staging breast cancer is the TNM system, which stands for Tumor, Node, and Metastasis.
Here's a general overview of the stages of breast cancer:
• Stage 0: Stage 0 breast cancer, also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), is the earliest stage of breast cancer. In this stage, the cancer is confined to the milk ducts and has not spread to nearby breast tissue or lymph nodes.
• Stage I: In stage I breast cancer, the tumor is small (less than 2 centimeters in diameter) and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage II: Stage II breast cancer is divided into two subcategories:
- Stage IIA: In this substage, the tumor is relatively small (less than 2 centimeters in diameter) but has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IIB: In this substage, the tumor is larger (between 2 and 5 centimeters in diameter) than stage IIA and may or may not have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Stage III breast cancer is further divided into three subcategories: stage IIIA, stage IIIB, and stage IIIC.
- In stage IIIA, the tumor may be of any size and has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- In stage IIIB, cancer has spread to nearby tissues, such as the chest wall or skin.
- In stage IIIC, the cancerous cells have spread to lymph nodes above or below the collarbone.
• Stage IV: Stage IV breast cancer, also known as metastatic breast cancer. In this stage, cancer has spread to other body parts, such as the bones, liver, or lungs. This stage is the most advanced stage of breast cancer.
The stage of breast cancer can impact treatment options and prognosis or the likely outcome of the disease. Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of successful treatment and long-term patient survival.
The treatment modalities for breast cancer depend on several factors, including the cancer stages, the size and location of the tumor, and whether or not the cancer has spread to other body parts. Doctors suggest the following are the principal treatment modalities for breast cancer:
• Surgery: Surgery is often considered the first line of treatment for breast cancer. The main goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous mass and a little surrounding healthy tissues and in some cases, nearby lymph nodes. Types of surgery for breast cancer include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue), mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), and lymph node removal.
• Radiation therapy: This therapy uses high-energy radiation beams to destroy cancerous cells. It is often used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast or surrounding tissue. Radiation therapy may also relieve pain or other symptoms in advanced breast cancer cases.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses various drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Doctors often use this therapy after surgery to destroy any remaining cancerous cells and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Chemotherapy may also be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to treat advanced breast cancer cases.
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy blocks the effects of estrogen on breast cancer cells. A doctor may use it with other treatments to reduce the recurrence rate or to treat advanced breast cancer cases.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to target specific proteins or other molecules, responsible for the growth and spread of cancer cells. Doctors may use it with other treatments to treat advanced breast cancer cases.
The specifically formulated treatment plan for breast cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and characteristics of cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences. A team of healthcare providers, including a surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and other specialists, will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
Breast cancer recovery and aftercare are crucial for overall well-being. Recovery depends on several factors, including cancer stages, the applied treatment options, and the individual patient's overall health and preferences. Follow-up appointments, healthy lifestyle habits, emotional support, breast reconstruction, and survivorship care plans are the foremost aspects of breast cancer recovery and aftercare.
Numerous studies have shown that breast cancer survivors who receive regular follow-up care have better overall survival rates and lower cancer recurrence rates than those who do not receive regular follow-up care. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in 2013 found that breast cancer survivors who received emotional support had a better overall quality of life and lower rates of depression than those who did not receive emotional support.
Research has also shown that embracing healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, not only improves overall health but also reduces the risk of recurrence in breast cancer survivors. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) provides survivorship care guidelines for breast cancer survivors, which include recommendations for follow-up care, healthy lifestyle habits, and emotional support.
In summary, breast cancer survivors should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop an individualized plan for recovery and aftercare based on their specific needs and circumstances. Regular follow-up appointments, healthy lifestyle habits, emotional support, breast reconstruction, and survivorship care plans are crucial aspects of breast cancer recovery and aftercare, backed by scientific studies and guidelines.
• What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
Answer: Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge or inversion, and pain or tenderness in the affected breast area.
• How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Answer: Breast cancer diagnosis may involve a combination of imaging tests, such as mammography and ultrasound, and a biopsy.
What are the treatment options for breast cancer?
Answer: Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.
• What can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?
Answer: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, may help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
• Will I lose my hair during breast cancer treatment?
Answer: Not all breast cancer treatments cause hair loss, as it is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Options for managing hair loss during treatment include wearing a wig, scarf, or hat.
• How is breast cancer staged?
Answer: Staging involves determining the size and extent of cancer and whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other body parts.
• How long does breast cancer treatment last?
Answer: The length of treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the chosen treatment options. Treatment may last for several weeks to several months.
• Is it safe to get pregnant after breast cancer treatment?
Answer: The safety of pregnancy after breast cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer and the type of treatment received. Therefore, discuss your pregnancy plans beforehand with a healthcare provider.
• Can men get breast cancer?
Answer: Yes, although it is rare, men can also develop breast cancer.
• What is the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence after treatment?
Answer: The likelihood of recurrence of cancer after treatment depends on several factors, such as the stage of cancer, the type of treatment received, and the individual's overall health. It is crucial to discuss your recurrence risk with a healthcare provider.
• What are the side effects of breast cancer treatment?
Answer: Most of the side effects of breast cancer treatment depend on the type of treatment. But some of the common side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and skin irritation.
• How do I prepare for breast cancer surgery?
Answer: Preparation for breast cancer surgery may involve undergoing certain tests and procedures, such as a mammogram or breast ultrasound, and making arrangements for help for post-operative care and recovery.
• How long does it take to recover from breast cancer surgery?
Answer: Recovery time varies depending on the type and extent of surgery, but overall, it may take several weeks to months to fully recover.
• What are the options for breast reconstruction surgery?
Answer: Breast reconstruction surgery includes breast implants, tissue flap procedures, or a combination of both methods.
• What is the survival rate for breast cancer?
Answer: Survival rates for breast cancer vary from person to person and mainly depend on the stage of cancer at diagnosis, but overall, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is around 90%.
