Things all women should know about Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in India. It affects thousands of women every year and kills one woman every 8 minutes in our country (Source: Breast Cancer India). Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world and is feared by all. At the same time, the only way to stay safe is early detection. You can visit one of the best breast surgeons in Pune or other major cities who can give you a detailed surveillance schedule and treatment plan, should you need it. However, as women, we need to know the risks so that we can take care of ourselves and other women in our lives. Here are some of the basic things that each woman should know about this disease: It can happen to anyone: Although usually women above the age of 40 are more at risk, it can happen to women at an earlier age as well. One can never be fully sure that they are safe if they are under a certain age, so it is recommended to always conduct a self-breast examination and visit your doctor if you notice any abnormalities. The Symptoms: Breast cancer can be diagnosed early if you regularly conduct a self-breast examination. Some of the symptoms that you should look for are: (Source: The Pink Initiative) rn1. Lump in either Breastrn2. Retraction of the Nipplern3. Discharge from the Nipple rn4. Skin Bumps or Nodules in the Skinrn5. Lumps in the Armpitsrn6. Constant pain in the Breast or Armpits What are the major Risk Factors? rnAlthough Breast Cancer can affect any woman, there are the major factors that may put you at a higher risk of getting diagnosed with the disease. (Source: breastcancer.org )rn1. Age: The risks of breast cancer are higher among women above 40 and the highest among women who are above the age of 70. However, in the recent times, the age at diagnosis is found to be much earlier than that observed worldwide.rn2. Family History: If women have someone in their close family who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, they are at higher risk. For women who have an immediate first-degree female relative (a mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed, then their risk is almost doubled.rn3. Genetics: About 5% to 10 % of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary.rn4. Radiation: Women who have received radiation to their chest or face before the age of 30 are at a higher risk than average population. Some other factors include race/ethnicity, being overweight, pregnancy history, breastfeeding history, menstruation before age 12 and menopause after age 55, alcohol, smoking, and HRT. If you notice any signs or symptoms you should visit a < Breast Cancer Doctor in Pune or elsewhere at the earliest to rule out any possibilities. Early detection can save several lives and so every woman needs to be educated about the symptoms and risks of breast cancer.