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Early Detection & Prevention of Breast Cancer | Key Tips & Guidelines

By Dr. Aditi Chaturvedi in Surgical Oncology , Cancer Care / Oncology , Breast Cancer

Nov 05 , 2024 | 2 min read

Breast cancer, being the most common cancer among women worldwide, is estimated to affect roughly 1 in 22 women in India. The increasing incidence in urban areas and among younger women is a cause of concern, but it has also led to a lot of unnecessary fear and anxiety.

Cancer of the breasts is a highly curable disease with long-term survival rates above 90% if detected early. The key is early detection, i.e., detecting cancer when it hasn’t spread and starting evidence-based treatment as soon as possible. There are some very simple measures that every woman must remember to protect herself from advanced breast cancer:

Do Not Ignore Any Change In The Look Or Feel Of Your Breasts

Every lady, from the age of 18, must be in the habit of checking her breasts once a month, after her periods if she is premenopausal or any time of the month if she is postmenopausal. Any change in the size, shape or symmetry of the breasts, any dimpling of the skin, nipple inversion or discharge or any lump in the breast or armpit must be reported to a specialist. Please pay attention to every change, even if it is painless. Cancerous lumps are commonly painless, which is why many people fail to report them at the right time. These dangerous lumps may not cause them any discomfort.

Do Not Forget To Get A Mammogram If You Are Above 40

Mammograms are basic X-rays of the breast that help catch early signs of cancer. The guidelines about the frequency of mammograms differ, but a simple rule should be to get your first mammogram after age 40 and continue to do so at least every other year.

Do Not Ignore Your Family History

If there are more than two members of your family who have been affected by any cancer (especially breast, ovarian, pancreatic, etc.), especially at a younger age (less than 50), make sure that you discuss your risk with a cancer specialist. There are certain genetic mutations (changes) that may increase your family’s risk of developing cancer, which can be detected after proper counselling by a genetics expert.

Do Not Underestimate The Power Of A ‘healthy Lifestyle’

We don’t have a vaccine for breast cancer yet, but it has been consistently shown that maintaining a healthy weight by watching your diet and regular exercise is protective against breast cancer. Avoiding high-calorie, processed food items is recommended, as is exercising for at least 45 minutes 5 days a week. Avoiding alcohol and long-term hormonal therapy also contributes to breast cancer risk reduction.

Do Not Get Any Breast Lump Removed Without Proper Evaluation

A common mistake made by people is that they get any breast lump removed by a local health care provider without the correct workup. This can be very detrimental as it can lead to unnecessary surgeries, the need for repeat surgeries, loss of opportunity to save the breast, missing the correct sequence of treatment, etc. It is important that a triple assessment: a thorough clinical checkup, proper imaging (mammogram/ultrasound/MRI), and core needle biopsy be done in each case of a solid breast lump so that there are no lapses. There is no need to fear a biopsy in these times; it is a very quick and safe procedure when done by a trained professional.