What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. These cancer cells can spread to nearby tissues and, in some cases, to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, especially those above 50 years of age, but it can also occur in younger women. Although rare, men can also develop breast cancer.

About 80% of breast cancers can spread beyond the breast if not treated quickly.

Types of breast cancer

Doctors identify the type of breast cancer to choose the most effective treatment.

Common types

• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This cancer starts in the milk ducts and spreads to nearby breast tissue. It is the most common type of breast cancer.
• Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): DCIS is an early form of breast cancer where the unusual cells are only in the milk ducts and have not spread.
• Angiosarcoma of the Breast: Angiosarcoma is a rare cancer that starts in the blood vessels of the breast. It grows fast and needs specialized treatment.

Less common types

• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): This is a fast-growing type of breast cancer that spreads more quickly than others. It does not get better with hormone treatments.
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC): A rare and quickly growing cancer that causes the breast to look red, swollen, and feel warm instead of forming a lump.
• Paget’s Disease of the Breast: A rare cancer that affects the nipple and nearby skin, often looking like a rash or eczema.
• Breast cancer subtypes: Breast cancer is also grouped by certain hormones and proteins found on the cancer cells.
  • ER-positive (ER+): Cancer cells have estrogen receptors
  • PR-positive (PR+): Cancer cells have progesterone receptors
  • HR-positive (HR+): Cancer cells have both estrogen and progesterone receptors
  • HR-negative (HR–): Cancer cells lack hormone receptors
  • HER2-positive (HER2+): Cancer cells have excess HER2 protein, causing faster growth

Knowing the subtype helps doctors choose the best treatment for each person.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Breast cancer may not cause symptoms in early stages. When symptoms appear, they may include:

• A lump or mass in the breast or underarm
• Change in breast size, shape, or appearance
• The breast feels thicker or firmer than usual
• The skin on the breast looks dimpled or wrinkled
• Redness, flacky skin or irritation
• Fluid coming from the nipple (clear or with blood)
• The nipple turns inward
• Pain in the breast (not always present)

Any unusual breast change should be evaluated by a doctor.

What causes breast cancer?

Breast cancer starts when breast cells change in an unusual way and begin to grow out of control. The exact cause is not always known, but some things can raise the risk.

Risk factors include:

• Increasing age (especially above 55)
• Being female
• Family history of breast cancer
• Changes in certain genes (BRCA1, BRCA2)
• Obesity
• Smoking and alcohol use
• Having had radiation treatment to the chest in the past
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

What are the complications of breast cancer?

The most serious problem is when breast cancer spreads to other organs, such as:

• Bones
• Liver
• Lungs
• Brain

Finding breast cancer early makes serious problems much less likely.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Doctors may use the following tests:

• Clinical breast examination
• Mammography
• Breast ultrasound
• Breast MRI
• Breast biopsy
• Hormone receptor and HER2 testing
• Genetic testing (in selected patients)

Stages of breast cancer

Doctors decide the stage of breast cancer by looking at how big the tumor is and if it has spread.

• Stage 0: Cancer confined to milk ducts (non-invasive)
• Stage I: Small tumor limited to breast
• Stage II: Larger tumor or spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs

How is breast cancer treated?

Treatment depends on the kind of cancer, how far it has spread, and the person's health.

Treatment options include:

Surgery

• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy
• Breast reconstruction

Other treatments

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy

Doctors often combine treatments for best results.

What are the side effects of treatment?

Side effects vary depending on treatment and may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Hair loss
• Skin changes
• Digestive issues

Special care can help manage these side effects and make people feel better.

Can breast cancer be prevented?

Breast cancer cannot always be stopped, but you can lower your risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol
• Regular physical activity
• Breast self-examinations
• Regular mammograms as advised

Early detection saves lives.

Living with breast cancer

Dealing with breast cancer can be hard both emotionally and physically.

Helpful steps include:

• Getting adequate rest
• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
• Managing stress through exercise or relaxation
• Seeking emotional and social support
• Joining survivorship or support programs

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Breast Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Breast Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced oncologists and breast cancer specialists, known as some of the best doctors for comprehensive breast cancer care. We provide accurate diagnosis with advanced imaging and biopsy tests, personalized treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy when required. Our team has decades of experience in successfully treating Breast Cancer in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Breast Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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