Breast cancer signs that call for medical attention: Kerala oncologist explains

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. If detected early, it is a treatable and often curable disease. However, due to limited awareness, the condition is frequently diagnosed at a later stage. Dr Ronnie Benson, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology at Mar Sleeva Hospital, explains.

What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when the growth of cells in the breast becomes abnormal and uncontrolled. These cells can potentially spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body.
Causes
1)Breast cancer has both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.
2)Modifiable risk factors include excess body weight or obesity, lack of physical activity, not having children, a shorter duration of breastfeeding, alcohol consumption and hormone therapy.

3)Non-modifiable risk factors, which account for nearly 60–70% of cases, cannot be prevented. These include increasing age, early onset of menstruation or late menopause and a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
4)Breast cancer is inherited due to genetic mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. BRCA gene testing helps identify women at higher risk of developing the disease. Identifying the risk of breast cancer early and starting treatment on time are key to improving outcomes.

Signs every woman should watch for
1)Lumps in the breast or underarm
2)Changes in the skin of the breast resembling the peel of a lemon
3)Inward pulling of the nipple
4)Discharge from the nipple that may appear milky or blood-stained
5)In advanced stages, symptoms such as jaundice, back pain and headaches

Steps for self-breast examination
Step 1:Examine the breasts carefully in front of a mirror. Look for any changes in shape or colour, the presence of lumps, redness, swelling or changes in the underarm area. Inward turning of the nipples is also a warning sign.
Step 2:After the visual inspection, raise both arms above your head and check again for any changes or differences.
Step 3:Caution is required if there is any abnormal discharge from the nipple, whether watery or milk-like. If watery, milky, yellowish or blood-like fluid is noticed, consult a doctor immediately.

Step 4:Raise one arm and use the other hand to feel the breast. Check for unusual lumps or areas of hardness. Repeat the same process on the other side.
Step 5:Lie down flat on your back and raise your right arm. Using your left hand, examine the right breast thoroughly for any lumps or hardened areas. Then raise your left arm and examine the left breast in the same manner.

There is no need to panic if any of these signs are noticed. Breast cancer is not a disease to be feared. When detected early, treatment is highly effective, and recovery is quicker. Women should make self-breast examination and at least an annual medical check-up a regular part of their lifestyle. With advances in modern medicine, highly effective treatments for breast cancer are now widely available.