Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with more than 2.3 million new cases diagnosed each year. In India, it has now overtaken cervical cancer to become the leading cancer in women, accounting for nearly 14 percent of all cancer cases in the country. What makes it especially concerning is that a large proportion of cases are diagnosed at a late stage, reducing survival chances compared to high-income countries. That said, with timely awareness and medical care, many cases can be detected early and treated successfully, improving both survival rates and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss breast cancer in detail, covering its causes, symptoms, stages, diagnosis, treatment options, and ways to detect it at an early stage. Let’s begin by understanding the basics.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a condition where cells in the breast tissue begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumour. These abnormal cells may stay confined to the breast or spread to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body if not treated in time.
It is often referred to as carcinoma of the breast, breast malignancy, mammary carcinoma, or mammary gland cancer in medical terms. While it is most common in women, male breast cancer can also occur, though it is rare.
Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
The exact cause of breast cancer is not always clear, but certain factors are known to increase the risk of developing the disease.
- Genetic mutations: Inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly raise the risk.
- Family history: Having close relatives with breast cancer can increase the likelihood.
- Hormonal influence: Prolonged exposure to oestrogen, early onset of menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy may contribute.
- Age and gender: The risk rises with age and is higher in women, though men can also develop breast cancer.
- Lifestyle factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet can increase the risk.
- Radiation exposure: Prior radiation therapy to the chest may elevate the risk.
While these factors may not directly cause breast cancer, they make individuals more vulnerable, highlighting the importance of regular screenings and preventive care.
Symptoms and Early Signs of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can present with different signs depending on its stage and type. Being aware of these changes is crucial for early detection. Common symptoms in women include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area.
- Changes in breast size or shape.
- Skin dimpling, puckering, or redness over the breast.
- Nipple changes such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.
- Persistent breast pain or tenderness not linked to the menstrual cycle.
Early signs of breast cancer may be subtle, such as minor skin changes, swelling, or unusual sensations in the breast. These should not be ignored, as timely medical evaluation can make a significant difference.
Male breast cancer, though rare, may show similar symptoms such as a lump, nipple changes, or pain in the chest area.
Stages of Breast Cancer
Staging describes how far breast cancer has spread and helps doctors decide the most effective treatment. The stages are classified from 0 to 4:
- Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ): Abnormal cells are confined to the ducts or lobules of the breast and have not spread.
- Stage 1: A small tumour is present, and cancer may or may not have spread to a few nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: The tumour is larger and may involve nearby lymph nodes, but has not spread to distant organs.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread extensively within the breast and nearby lymph nodes, but not to distant parts of the body.
- Stage 4 (Metastatic breast cancer): Cancer has spread to other organs, such as the lungs, liver, bones, or brain.
Types of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is not a single disease but includes different types, each with its own characteristics and treatment approach.
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, starting in the milk ducts and spreading into surrounding breast tissue.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the milk-producing lobules and can spread to nearby tissues.
- Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive form where abnormal cells remain confined within the ducts.
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare but aggressive type that causes redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump.
- Other rare types: Include medullary carcinoma, papillary carcinoma, and mucinous carcinoma.
Identifying the exact type of breast cancer helps doctors recommend the most suitable treatment strategy.
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Accurate diagnosis is essential to confirm breast cancer and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Doctors may use a combination of the following methods:
- Clinical breast exam: A physical check for lumps or changes in the breast and underarm.
- Mammogram: A specialised X-ray often used for routine breast cancer screening.
- Ultrasound: Helps distinguish between solid tumours and fluid-filled cysts.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images, especially in high-risk patients.
- Biopsy: A sample of breast tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm whether it is cancerous.
- Breast cancer screening: Regular screenings are recommended, especially for women over 40 or those with a strong family history, to detect cancer at an early stage.
These diagnostic tools ensure timely detection, allowing doctors to plan personalized treatment based on the stage and type of cancer.
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Treatment for breast cancer depends on the stage, type, overall health, and patient preferences. A combination of therapies is often used to achieve the best outcomes.
- Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumour and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
- Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast, sometimes including nearby lymph nodes.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs are administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones such as oestrogen or progesterone that fuel certain types of breast cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific abnormalities in cancer cells, such as HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells.
With advances in medical science, many patients receive personalized treatment plans, combining surgery, medications, and supportive therapies for the most effective care.
Prevention and Early Detection
While not all cases of breast cancer can be prevented, certain measures can reduce risk and improve the chances of detecting it early.
- Healthy lifestyle choices: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and eating a balanced diet may lower risk.
- Breast self-awareness: Being familiar with how the breasts normally look and feel makes it easier to notice unusual changes.
- Regular screenings: Mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs can help detect breast cancer at an early and more treatable stage, especially for women over 40 or those with a family history.
- Genetic counselling: Women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer may benefit from genetic testing for BRCA mutations.
- Medical follow-up: Regular check-ups with a doctor ensure that even minor changes are evaluated promptly.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Breast Cancer Care?
Artemis Hospitals is committed to providing comprehensive, advanced, and compassionate care for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The hospital combines world-class medical expertise with modern technology to ensure effective treatment and long-term recovery.
Expert Care
At Artemis, some of the best oncologists in Gurgaon specialise in breast cancer treatment. Their expertise spans across surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and advanced therapies, ensuring patients receive the most suitable and personalised care.
Advanced Treatment Options
The hospital offers the latest facilities for breast surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and reconstructive options post-mastectomy. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a multidisciplinary cancer care team, Artemis provides complete treatment under one roof.
Patient-Centred Approach
Beyond medical treatment, Artemis Hospitals focuses on holistic healing. Patients receive emotional support, counselling, nutrition guidance, and rehabilitation services to help them through every stage of recovery. This patient-first approach ensures comfort, trust, and confidence throughout the journey.
Book an Appointment Today
Early diagnosis and timely treatment play a vital role in improving survival and recovery outcomes in breast cancer. At Artemis Hospitals, patients benefit from advanced facilities, expert oncologists, and personalized care tailored to every stage of the disease.
To book an appointment with a breast cancer specialist at Artemis Hospitals, call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 980-040-0498. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or via the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Article By Dr. Rupinder Sekhon
Chairperson - Gynae Oncology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of breast cancer in women?
The most common breast cancer symptoms include a lump in the breast or underarm, nipple discharge, breast pain, changes in size or shape, and skin dimpling.
Can men develop carcinoma of the breast?
Yes, male breast cancer is rare but possible. Symptoms may include a hard lump, nipple inversion, or unusual discharge, similar to breast malignancy in women.
How are the stages of breast cancer classified?
Breast cancer stages range from Stage 0 (non-invasive) to Stage 4 (spread to distant organs). Staging helps doctors decide the most effective breast cancer treatment.
What are the treatment options for breast cancer near me in Gurgaon?
Advanced breast cancer treatment in Gurgaon includes breast cancer surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies, available at Artemis Hospitals.
Is breast cancer curable if detected early?
Yes, many cases of stage 0 breast cancer or stage 1 breast cancer are highly curable with surgery and other treatments when detected through regular breast cancer screening.
Where can I find the best hospital for breast cancer treatment near me?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon is recognised as one of the best oncology hospitals for managing breast cancer, offering surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and advanced therapies under one roof.
What is the role of breast cancer surgery in treatment?
Breast cancer surgery, such as lumpectomy or mastectomy, is often the first step in treatment. It may be followed by radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy depending on the stage.
