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Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer in women, and the second main cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer.
Awareness of the symptoms and the need for screening are important ways of reducing the risk.
Breast Cancer is a malignant tumour specific to the human breast. It is the result of an atypical growth of cells in the breast that can metastasize to other body parts, causing a systematic breakdown of body processes and fatality. Lately, we have seen a surge in breast cancer cases in India and worldwide. As per National Cancer Registry Programme, 25% to 32% of all female cancers in the leading Indian urban centres are related to breast cancer. Though females are the prime victim of breast cancer, males can also develop the malignancy. The origin of breast cancer is shrouded in mystery. However, there are certain risk factors specific to the condition, such as ageing, heredity, genes, radiation exposure, obesity, delayed pregnancy and alcohol.
The prominent symptoms and signs of breast cancer may include, but not limited to:
They are as of:
Though a variety of staging methods are in use, generally breast cancer is spread out in five stages, each of which is characterised by the size and outreach of the tumour. The oncologist often determines the stages by subjecting the patient to a series of specialised physical exams, X-rays, biopsies, bone scans and blood tests.
Initial stage: The primary stage of breast cancer is also medically referred to as Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS). Here, the malignant cells are restricted within the duct and yet to come in contact with the surrounding tissues.
Stage 1: This stage is characterised by the abnormal growth of malignant cells. The tumour size is about 2 cm and the lymph nodes are not infected as yet.
Stage 2: Herein, the tumour gains size and outreach. The surrounding lymph nodes come in contact with the infected cells.
Stage 3: In the onset of this stage, the tumour gains mass and may become as big as 5 cm across. The threat of infected lymph nodes is maximized.
Stage 4: The final stage is characterised by the metastasis of malignant tissues. Cancer spreads to distant organs, among which the prime recipients are brain, liver, bones and lungs.
It is critical to profoundly understand what really matters to patients when it comes to disease management and treatment expectations.