In 2022, around 2.3 million women worldwide were diagnosed with breast cancer, where around 6 lakh females lost their lives. This is a cruel reminder of the growing threat posed by this deadly disease.
Brief Overview of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer, the most common cancer among women, arises as a result of genetic mutation leading to abnormal growth of cells there. These abnormal cells, called tumours, can be detected via imaging tests or felt as lumps.
Risk Factors and Causes of Breast Cancer
Genetic Factors
- Mutation in tumour suppression- BRCA1 and BRCA2 can contribute to the transformation of normal breast cells into malignant ones.
- Breast cancer also has hereditary linkage and 5–10% of breast cancer arise due to family history.
Environmental Factors
- Sometimes, exposure to high levels of estrogen or progesterone or its surge over a lifetime can trigger breast cancer.
- While the patient is undergoing radiation therapy for other cancers, it may also increase the risk of developing breast cancer in the surrounding area if the radiation is not precise.
Lifestyle Factors
- Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels as these tissues secrete estrogen.
- Some habits, such as smoking, can damage genetic makeup as it contains carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) that may increase the risk of breast cancer.
However, the precise mechanisms which lead to breast cancer development remain a subject of research. However, early detection of breast cancer can drastically improve treatment outcomes, which is why regular screening is considered a top priority.
How to Diagnose Breast Cancer?
If you’re someone looking for correct ways for diagnosis of breast cancer before seeking any medical help, here’s a brief idea for the same.
Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
You can detect breast cancer by yourself through self-examination. Any unusual lumps, sudden piercing pain, or any abnormal change in the size and shape of the breast could be early warning signs of breast cancer.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, kindly visit a doctor for further evaluation.
Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)
This basically involves an examination of breasts for lumps or changes in texture, by a medical professional. If they also detect something suspicious, further diagnostic tests are recommended to confirm the presence of breast cancer.
Imaging tests
Mammography, a screening tool for early detection of breast cancer, is often recommended for women aged 30 and older. It is particularly for those with a family history of breast cancer, who are advised to undergo regular mammograms, ideally twice a year.
If a mammogram reveals a suspicious lump or abnormality, an ultrasound can provide further details.
Biopsy
A small sample of breast tissue is surgically removed so that it can be examined under a microscope. Fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, surgical biopsy, etc., are some common types of biopsies performed to detect breast cancer.
Genetic Testing
When breast cancer runs in families, genetic testing to detect mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 is recommended.
If the tests have confirmed the presence of cancer, the stage of cancer is done based on the BI-RADS scale, the indications of which are listed below-
- Stage 0 (ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS): Non-invasive cancer which is limited to the ducts.
- Stages I-III: The cancer is now progressively invasive but still localised to the breast or nearby lymph nodes only.
- Stage IV: The cancer has already moved to other parts of the body, such as bones, liver, or lungs.
Hearing a diagnosis of breast cancer can be shocking, and many women struggle to process the news. This initial shock often comes with questions like, “Why me?” or “What happens next?
During this emotionally challenging time, it’s crucial to provide patients with both emotional support and clear information about their medical condition and the surgical procedure they may face.
Like any other cancer, doctors provide treatment options such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation surgery are available for breast cancer surgery. The major types of breast cancer surgery involves- lumpectomy, mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy.
In lumpectomy, the cancerous tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue around it are removed. When the entire breast containing cancerous cells are removed, the procedure is referred to as mastectomy.
In sentinel lymph node biopsy procedure, the first lymph node to which cancer cells are likely to spread is removed.
However, these treatments are applied as a comprehensive approach along with the surgery to derive the best outcomes and the specific treatment plan created depends on several factors, including the stage and type of breast cancer etc.
These factors altogether affect the cost of breast cancer treatment in India and other countries such as Germany, Turkey and Thailand.
Preparation for Breast Cancer Surgery
For your better understanding, let’s categorise the basic preparation that should be done prior to surgery:
Physical preparation
- We have evidence that suggests that overweight or obesity can increase the risk of complications during surgery. Hence you are advised to maintain a healthy weight and get enough rest and sleep.
- Certain medications, which may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery should be avoided for 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.
- Prior to surgery, if you are a regular smoker, you should quit smoking at least 2-4 weeks before surgery as smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
Pre-surgical tests and procedures
- Some diagnostic tests such as blood tests, mammograms and ultrasounds may be necessary to check for any underlying medical conditions that could affect surgery.
- Your doctor will discuss the surgery plan with you, including the type of surgery, the risks and benefits, and the expected outcomes. If you are uncertain at any stage, you should ask your doctor.
Emotional preparation
- Prior to breast surgery, you should prepare yourself for the procedure, and understand the recovery process.
- Some changes in physical appearance may also occur after the procedure. You should discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor to reduce anxiety and clarify your uncertainty.
- You should surround yourself with your family and friends who can emotionally guide you during the recovery process.
Logistical Preparation
- Before the procedure, get a detailed idea about the cost of breast cancer surgery and other preparations involved.
- Other expenses, such as transportation and stay in the hospital, should also be considered.
Recovery after Breast Cancer Surgery
The first few weeks after breast cancer surgery are crucial in determining the success of the procedure. You may experience some discomfort, pain, and fatigue, which you can manage with medication and rest.
As the body begins to heal, patients may notice changes in their breast shape, size, and sensation. These changes can be temporary or permanent, but it’s crucial to discuss any associated concerns with your surgeon.
Some other physical changes that should be considered :
- Since an incision is made during breast cancer surgery, it may result in permanent scarring. They may heal over time, and the patient starts feeling better with time.
- Some patients may experience changes in sensation, including numbness, tingling, or pain. You should not hesitate to discuss it with your surgeon.
- You may experience changes in the shape and size of the breast. This may be emotionally challenging, too, but it can be dealt with reconstruction surgeries after you have fully recovered under the guidance of your surgeon.
- A study suggests that 10.6% of breast cancer survivors experienced depression symptoms while 18.6% of them experienced anxiety symptoms. This long-term psychological distress in breast cancer survivors can be managed with proper counselling addressing concerns related to their body image and self-esteem.
Additional Considerations
- After the surgery for breast cancer, there may be some noticeable differences in the size of the breasts, which affects the aesthetic appearance. In such situations, breast reconstruction surgeries under approved aesthetic surgeons can be recommended.
- After the breasts have been surgically removed during breast cancer surgery, prosthetics made up of silicone foam can be worn out to bring comfort to the patients.
Conclusion
As medical sciences improve treatment strategies and reduce mortality rates for breast cancer, it is essential that you are well-informed about your diagnosis, treatment options, and the surgical procedures. Moreover, having clear communication with oncosurgeons ensures that you are fully aware of the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of each treatment approaches. This contributes a more positive experience throughout your recovery process.
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