Breast Cancer Awareness: 5 Facts you need to know
Breast Cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer found amongst women and the second leading cause of death. Which makes it essential to educate yourself on breast cancer so you can help make a difference. In this article, we highlight five facts on breast cancer that can save your life or the life of a loved one. Protect your health with these five essential facts related to breast cancer.
Five essential facts you need to know about breast cancer
- Breast cancer is more common than you believe it to be
Breast cancer is a serious health condition that affects more than 1 in 8 women worldwide. In India, the incidences of breast cancer is high. According to latest global cancer report, it is the most common type of cancer in women, accounting for 31% of all cancers diagnosed. It can be caused by many factors, including environmental and lifestyle choices, genetics, and the use of hormones.
- It can be more than a lump
A breast lump is the most common symptom, but it’s not the only one that signals breast cancer.
- Swelling of breast or a small part of it
- Skin irritation
- Nipple retraction
- Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- An unexplained fever
Women often find symptoms on their own. That’s why women need to know how their breasts look and feel normally.
- Breast cancer can occur at any age
Although a majority of breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 50 in a western country, it can actually happen at any age. It is alarming to find that breast cancer is diagnosed at a much earlier age in India. In India, breast cancers are diagnosed between the ages of 40 – 60 years.
- Breast cancer can occur during pregnancy
When women are pregnant or breastfeeding, it may take longer to notice changes in the breast. Breasts are generally more tender during pregnancy and may feel more “lumpy” than during normal time, making it harder to find a discrete lump or notice other changes in the breast, causing a delay in diagnosis.
- Family history doesn’t play a major role
It’s important to note that a woman with breast cancer does not always come from a family with breast cancer or has a family history of breast cancer. Strong family history (hereditary breast cancer) accounts for only 5-10% of breast cancers it’s usually due to a gene abnormality such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. For a fact fewer than 10% of women with breast cancer have a family history of the disease.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women and it is crucial that we all learn as much about it as possible. In this article, we addressed five important facts about breast cancer that you should know. Hopefully, by reading this information you will feel more informed and able to help your loved ones during their time of need.
Breast Cancer can be prevented or detected with early oncology diagnostic.
HCG best cancer hospital in India, is a leading provider of advanced cancer treatments, providing compassionate care for those who are fighting cancer. With state-of-the-art facilities, and its doctors dedicated to helping you receive the best possible care.
Consult HCG Oncologists to get right opinion at the right time. Book your appointment now with one of the best breast cancer hospitals in India for early breast cancer diagnosis and get the best treatment on time.