Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers to strike women worldwide—and in India as well. But there's good news: if caught early, breast cancer is extremely curable. That's why awareness is such an important life-saver. When more people are aware of the symptoms, undergo regular checkups, and adhere to screening guidelines, more women can overcome the disease.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when the cells in the breast start growing excessively. These cells can develop a lump or tumor and can spread to other areas of the body if not treated at the right time.

Although breast cancer primarily strikes women, men also get it, but infrequently. Awareness of symptoms and regular check-ups is the key to detecting the disease early.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer in its early stages?

Early breast cancer detection can help save your life. But you have to know what signs to monitor. Breast cancer symptoms often consist of:

A lump or swelling in the breast or armpit
Change in size or shape of the breast
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), possibly with blood
Nipple turning inward
Redness or flaky skin on the breast or nipple
Skin dimpling (like an orange peel texture)
Persistent pain in any part of the breast

If you find any of these symptoms, don't panic—but see a doctor as soon as possible. Not all lumps are cancer, but only tests can prove that.

How Do You Examine Your Breasts at Home?

There's one easy habit that can make a big difference: the breast self-examination (BSE). It's a method of examining your own breasts at home, once a month.

How to perform a breast self-exam:

Look at yourself in the mirror: Check for any obvious changes in shape, skin, or nipples.
Hold your arms up: Check for changes with your hands raised.
Feel while standing or lying down: Gently feel all around your breast in a circular motion using the pads of your fingers.
Check the armpits: Feel for lumps or changes there as well.

Tip: Do it a few days after your period ends, when breasts are less tender.

Self-exams don't replace medical tests, but they help you notice changes early.

What Are the Breast Cancer Risk Factors?

Some people are at higher risk. Key factors include:

Age: Risk increases with age
Family history: Especially close relatives with breast cancer
Genetic mutations: BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations
Hormonal factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, HRT use
Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol, obesity, inactivity
Previous breast conditions or cancers

While some risks can't be changed (like genes or age), lifestyle factors can be managed to reduce risk.

How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?

When a lump is discovered or a symptom is noticed, tests are ordered by doctors to check if it's cancer.

Breast cancer tests used to diagnose include:

Clinical breast exam: A doctor exams for lumps or abnormalities.
Mammogram screening: An X-ray using a low dose of radiation to detect lumps before they can be felt.
Ultrasound: To look at a suspect area.
Breast MRI: Detailed pictures, particularly in high-risk women.
Biopsy: A sample of tissue is removed and examined for cancer.

What Is a Mammogram and When Should You Get It?

A mammogram is a simple X-ray test to detect breast cancer before symptoms appear.

General screening guidelines:

Age 40–49: Discuss screening frequency with your doctor
Age 50–74: Get one every 1–2 years
High-risk women: May need earlier/more frequent screening

In India, many women skip regular screening—often due to stigma or lack of awareness. Mammograms can detect cancer early, when it's easiest to treat.

Is Breast Cancer Treatable?

Yes—especially when caught early. Common treatments include:

Surgery: Lumpectomy or mastectomy
Radiation: Targets cancer cells
Chemotherapy: Kills cancer cells throughout the body
Hormone therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel cancer
Targeted therapy: Targets cancer-related genes/proteins
Immunotherapy: Boosts immune system to fight cancer

Your treatment plan depends on the type and stage of cancer.

What Is the Survival Rate of Breast Cancer?

Survival depends on early detection and treatment:

Early-stage breast cancer: Over 90% five-year survival
Advanced-stage: Lower, but treatable

In India, many are diagnosed late—due to fear, stigma, or lack of awareness. That’s why early detection matters

Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?

You can’t always prevent it, but you can reduce risk:

Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced, low-fat diet
Exercise at least 30 mins daily
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol
Breastfeed if possible
Be aware of your family history
Get regular screenings

Healthy habits and body awareness go a long way in prevention.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is globally recognized to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support research.

What happens during this month:

Hospitals offer free/discounted mammograms
Awareness drives and campaigns (pink ribbons)
Survivors share stories to inspire others

Use this month to schedule your checkup or remind others to get screened.

Breast Cancer in India: The Present Scenario

Breast cancer is rising among Indian women and is often detected late. Reasons include lack of awareness, fear, stigma, and poor access in rural areas.

Big cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore offer advanced care—but rural regions face delays in diagnosis and treatment. Awareness and screening can change this.