Dr. Gopal Sharma – Best Breast Cancer Doctor in Delhi NCR

Breast cancer is a disease characterized by the formation of malignant (cancerous) cells in the tissues of the breast. It stands as one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women globally, though it can also occur in men. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of breast cancer remains elusive, but several known risk factors can significantly increase the likelihood of developing this condition.

Breast Anatomy and Breast Cancer

To grasp the intricacies of breast cancer, understanding the anatomy of the breast is crucial. The breast is composed of three main components: lobules, ducts, and connective tissue.

• Lobules: These glands produce milk.
• Ducts: These thin tubes transport milk from the lobules to the nipple.
• Connective Tissue: This includes fibrous and fatty tissue that holds everything together.

What are the Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is categorized based on its origin, growth pattern, and spread. The primary types include:

1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are confined to the lining of a breast duct without spreading beyond it.
2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, starting in the breast ducts and invading nearby tissues.
3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the lobules and can spread to surrounding tissues and other parts of the body.
4. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and excess HER2 protein, making it more aggressive and harder to treat.
5. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Characterized by high levels of the HER2 protein, which promotes cancer cell growth. Treatments targeting HER2 are often effective.
6. Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare, aggressive form causing redness, swelling, and tenderness in the breast.
7. Metastatic Breast Cancer: Also known as stage IV, this is cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

What are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer risk can be raised by a number of variables, such as:

• Gender: Being female is the primary risk factor.
• Age: The risk increases with age.
• Family History and Genetics: A family history of breast cancer and inherited gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) significantly raise risk.
• Hormonal Factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, having children later in life or not at all, and hormone replacement therapy can influence risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity contribute to higher risk.
• Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation treatments to the chest area elevate risk.

Did you know the Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Symptoms of breast cancer vary, but common signs include:

• A growth or bump in the underarms or breasts.
• Alterations to the breast’s size, form, or appearance.
• Puckering or dimpling of the breast skin.
• Nipple discharge that is not breast milk, possibly containing blood.
• An inverted nipple.
• Skin on the breasts or nipples turning red or scaling.
• Swelling or pain in the breast.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

The skin on the breasts or nipples turning red or scaling. Diagnostic methods include:

• Mammography: An X-ray of the breast is used to detect and evaluate changes.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to produce images of breast structures, useful for distinguishing between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed breast images.
• Biopsy: Involves removing a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

How many Stages of the Breast Cancer

Once breast cancer is diagnosed, staging determines the extent of the disease. Stages range from 0 to IV:

• Stage 0: Non-invasive cancers, such as DCIS.
• Stage I: Small, localized cancers that have not spread to lymph nodes or only to a few.
• Stage II: Larger tumors or cancers that have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: More extensive cancers that have invaded nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: Metastatic cancers that have spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment Options for Breast Cancer

Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type, stage, and other factors such as hormone receptor status and HER2 status. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Removing the tumour (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy), sometimes including lymph node removal.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy radiation to find and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: Blocks the body’s hormone production or interferes with hormone effects, used for hormone receptor-positive cancers.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target certain proteins or genes involved in cancer growth, such as HER2.
• Immunotherapy: Strengthens the immune system of the body to combat cancer cells.

Living with Breast Cancer

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but numerous resources and support systems are available to help patients manage their physical and emotional challenges. Support groups, counseling, and patient education are valuable resources. Regular medical check-ups are essential for monitoring recurrence and managing long-term treatment effects.