EXPLAINER | Understanding Breast Cancer: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Stories of Survivors

Breast cancer has become a significant health issue for women in India, with rising cases and deaths. It is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States, second only to skin cancer. However, breast cancer is not exclusive to women; anyone with breast tissue can develop it.

The good news is that survival rates for breast cancer are improving, and fewer people are dying from it. This progress is largely due to increased public awareness and funding for research.

Types of Breast Cancer

1. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): This is an early-stage cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but haven’t spread outside the duct.

2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This type starts in the milk ducts and spreads to nearby breast tissue.

3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This cancer begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to other parts of the body.

4. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: This type lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 receptors, making it harder to treat.

Causes of Breast Cancer

1. Genetics: Inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the risk.

2. Hormones: Long-term exposure to estrogen, early menstruation, and late menopause can contribute.

3. Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption are also risk factors.

Symptoms to Watch For

1. Unusual Lump or Swelling: New lumps or swelling in the breasts, neck, underarms, collarbone, or other areas should be checked. Inverted nipples can also be a sign.

2. Rapid Weight Loss and Appetite Loss: Sudden weight loss and lack of appetite may indicate an underlying health issue, such as metastatic breast cancer.

3. Night Sweats: Unexplained night sweats could be a symptom of breast cancer, possibly due to hormone changes or fever caused by the disease.

4. Difficulty Breathing and Chest Pain: If the cancer has spread, it can cause chest pain and breathing difficulties. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

5. Constant Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent fatigue, even after adequate rest, could be a sign of metastatic breast cancer.

Prevention Tips

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, reducing stress, exercising, eating a balanced diet, and planning family life can help prevent breast cancer. Women are encouraged to have children at a younger age, stay fit, and breastfeed adequately. Those with a family history of breast cancer should consult a genetic counselor for personalized advice.

Celebrities Who Battled Cancer

1. Hina Khan: Known from Bigg Boss, Hina Khan was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.

2. Sonali Bendre: The famous 1990s actress revealed in 2018 that she had Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, with doctors giving her only a 30% chance of survival.

3. Tahira Kashyap: The film director and wife of Ayushmann Khurrana was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. She documented her journey to inspire others and completed her treatment in January 2019.

4. Mahima Chaudhry: Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, she has completed her treatment.

5. Mumtaz: Diagnosed in 2002, Mumtaz fought breast cancer with 6 chemotherapies and 35 radiation treatments.

6. Manisha Koirala: Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in November 2012, she sought treatment in the US.

• With inputs from agencies