Breast cancer: No. 1 cancer among Indian women

The key to cancer prevention is a healthy lifestyle, which includes a good diet, adequate exercise, and saying no to tobacco, stress health experts. Along with this , increased awareness can lead to early detection, upping the survival rate, they add.

Considering that breast cancer can be cured if detected early, it makes sense for women to go in for regular screening,  emphasise doctors. Dr Sandeep Nayak, senior consultant surgical oncologist, laparoscopy and robotic onco surgery at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, points out that breast cancer can be identified through mammography even before cancer lumps are felt.

“Women over the age of 45 years are strongly advised to undergo annual mammography tests and conduct monthly self-examinations. Being self-aware allows one to identify even the smallest changes and contact an oncologist for a clinical examination and further tests at the first sign of discomfort,” he says, explaining that breast cancer in the initial stages is seen in the form of small lumps in the breasts or armpits.

“These lumps are painless in the early stages but grow in size and pain as the cancer progresses. In rare cases, discharge, discomfort and itchiness around the nipples are the first indications. There are no other symptoms associated with breast cancer besides these lumps,” he adds.