Early Signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know

Breast cancer—just hearing these words can be overwhelming in so many ways. We all know someone who has been a victim of breast cancer. Despite being so common worldwide and making up 25% of all cancer cases, it’s still considered taboo in India. In 2020 alone, breast cancer resulted in around 90,408 deaths in India. Incidence rates are higher in urban areas than in rural regions, possibly due to lifestyle differences, with urban women having a higher risk. About 48% of the new breast cancer patients are below the age of 50. Therefore, it becomes essential for us, as a society, to educate people around us about breast cancer for prevention and early detection.

Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer often whispers before it shouts. The early symptoms can be subtle, and easy to overlook as something less serious. But listening to your body and being aware of these signs can make all the difference. Here are a few things you can watch out for:

> A New Lump or Mass
One of the most common early signs is a new lump in the breast or underarm. While not all lumps are cancerous, any new, hard, or irregular mass should be checked by a doctor. Think of it as your body’s way of tapping you on the shoulder—don’t ignore it.

> Changes in Breast Size or Shape
Have you noticed one breast looking a bit different from the other? Maybe it’s swelling or changing shape. Sometimes, these changes are just a part of life, but other times, they could be an early sign of breast cancer. Seek medical help if you feel any change that doesn’t feel normal!

> Skin Changes on the Breast
Your skin can also be a messenger. Look for redness, dimpling (which can make the skin look like an orange peel), or thickened area. These changes might be easy to miss, but they’re worth paying attention to.

> Nipple Changes
If your nipple suddenly inverts or you notice a discharge that isn’t breast milk, this could be an alarming sign. Nipple changes are often one of the first things women notice, and they’re a signal to get checked out.

> Pain or Tenderness
Breast pain isn’t always linked to cancer, but persistent pain that doesn’t seem to go away could be a warning sign. It’s your body suggesting that “Something’s not right here.”

> Clear or Bloody Discharge
Another sign to watch for is an unusual discharge from the nipple, especially if it’s clear or bloody. While this doesn’t always indicate cancer, it’s a symptom that should never be ignored. Your body might be trying to tell you something important, so make sure to consult with a doctor.

Checking for Breast Cancer at Home

It’s important to check your breasts for signs of breast cancer every month, ideally 5 to 7 days after your period. If you don’t have periods, choose a specific date each month as a reminder to look and feel for any changes. To check your breasts at home, start by standing in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in shape, size, or colour, and watch for any unusual swelling, dimpling, or redness. Gently squeeze your nipples to see if there’s any discharge.

Next, raise your arms and repeat the visual check. Then, lie down and use the pads of your fingers to gently feel your breasts in circular motions, starting from the outer edge and moving inward. Cover the entire area, including under your arms.

If you notice any lumps or changes, don’t worry too much, but make sure to see your doctor for a professional check-up. Regular self-exams and doctor visits are key to staying on top of your breast health.

For women over 40 years old, it is recommended to undergo a yearly clinical breast examination and screening mammography. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer may need to start earlier.

A surgical oncologist performs the clinical breast examination, carefully evaluating any changes or abnormalities to ensure early detection and prompt intervention. Regular screenings are crucial as they play a significant role in the early detection of breast cancer, improving the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

Treatment Modalities for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer stages show how much the cancer has spread. Stage 0 means it’s only in the breast ducts. Stages I to III indicate the tumor is growing and may involve nearby lymph nodes. Stage IV means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Survival rates are much higher in the early stages, making early detection crucial for better outcomes.The treatment given to a patient also depends on the stage of the cancer.

The most common treatment methods include :

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It’s often used when cancer has spread or might spread. Sometimes, chemo is given before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to destroy any leftover cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It’s usually done after surgery to lower the chance of cancer coming back. It can also be used if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Surgery
Surgery involves removing the cancer from the breast. There are two main types: a lumpectomy, where only the tumor is taken out, and a mastectomy, where the whole breast is removed. The choice depends on the size and location of the tumor.

Hormonal Therapy
Hormonal therapy is used for cancers that grow in response to hormones like estrogen. This treatment blocks these hormones from helping the cancer grow.

Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight cancer. It’s especially helpful for certain tough-to-treat breast cancers. This treatment boosts the body’s natural defenses to better attack cancer cells.

Monoclonal Antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies are a targeted treatment that focuses on specific proteins found in cancer cells. It helps to stop cancer growth and works better with other treatments like chemotherapy.

Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer

To help prevent breast cancer, start by maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Keeping active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week can lower your risk and support overall health. Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day is also important, as excessive alcohol intake is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Avoiding smoking is crucial too, as there’s evidence that smoking may elevate your risk, especially for premenopausal women. Also, ensure you follow regular screening guidelines, such as mammograms, particularly if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. Early detection through screenings can lead to more effective treatment and better results.

Trust Your Body, and Yourself throughout the journey! Your body is your closest ally, and it often gives you subtle hints when something isn’t right. If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic—just take action. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so listen to your body and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to be safe and get it checked out.

FAQs

1. What are the early symptoms of breast cancer?

Early symptoms often include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, which is usually painless.

2. What are the warning signs of breast cancer?

Key warning signs to watch for are a persistent lump, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, unusual nipple discharge, and redness or thickening of the breast skin.

3. How can I check for breast cancer at home?

Perform a self-exam each month: visually inspect your breasts, feel for any unusual lumps, and check for nipple discharge.

4. What are different ways to prevent breast cancer?

Reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, staying active, breastfeeding, and avoiding tobacco.