'Sacred Games' actor reveals cancer diagnosis: The form that accounts for most breast cancers

Malayalis know her the best as the heroine of the film Sexy Durga and as Subhadra of Vikramaditya Motwane's hit series Sacred Games. Actress Rajshri Deshpande, who is known for her bold characters and personality, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. On her Instagram page, along with a photo from the hospital, Rajshri said that she has been diagnosed with Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma or NOS, which is a Grade 1 breast cancer. Rajshri says that fortunately, the cancer was caught early in a routine checkup. "Tons of tests and surgery felt like a rollercoaster ride, but trust me, it was everyone's love and warmth that carried me through," she says on her page. According to Rajshri, a lot of work needs to be done on the ground about breast cancer awareness as well. 

What is NOS?
Infiltrating or Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, known both as IDC or NOS, is a cancer that originates in the milk ducts of the breast. Then, it spreads to the surrounding tissues. According to Dr Pamela Ann Wright of Johns Hopkins University, it is the form of cancer that accounts for 80% breast cancer diagnoses. Its risk increases with age, and about two-thirds of women diagnosed with it are aged 55 or older. 

Frequently asked question
1) Can IDC/NOS affect men?
Yes, it can. One in 100 breast cancers occurs in men, though they don't have enough lobular tissue to produce milk. This is because they still have milk ducts.

2)What are the symptoms of invasive ductal carcinoma?
a) Persistent, localised, breast pain
b)Lump in the breast
c)Discharges from nipples
d)Redness or thickening of breast skin
e)Change in breast shape
f)Swelling on breast
g)Underarm lumps
h)Flaky skin on the nipple
i)Retraction or dimpling of breast skin or nipple

3)What is the exact cause of IDC?
The exact cause is not known. However, a host of activities can increase the risk of invasive ductal carcinoma.
a)Late deliveries
b)Too early or late menstrual cycles
c)Obesity
d)Smoking and drinking
e)Radiation therapy to the chest area
f)Inherited genetic mutations

4)Can IDC be prevented?
No. However, regular mammograms, having a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, regular exercises and tests can reduce its risks. 
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