Breast cancer- Most Common Type of Cancer

Breast Cancer is spread worldwide, being the most common cause of cancer amongst women and it is the 2^ND leading cause of cancer deaths. Even in India it is very common cancer which ultimately leads to death. The incidence is 1.44 lac new cases every year. Breast Cancer is a real burning issue due to the following reasons:

• Age shift (More young ladies affected)
• Rising numbers of cases of breast cancer in India
• Late presentation (This directly decreases long term survival of the patient
• Lack of awareness and Screening (Screening is the single most important factor responsible for better survival of patients in the west)
• Aggressive cancers in young (Generally, the younger the age below menopause, the more aggressive the cancer)
• Late presentation & Decreased survival

Worldwide over all 5 year survival for breast cancer has increased from 75% in 1970’s to almost 89% presently. But in India we barely have any data on survival. Rough estimate from reports 5 year survival is around 60%. This can be explained by following reasons.

• 50% patients of breast cancer present in stages III and IV
• Outcome is not as good as earlier stages
• The western nations have achieved a steadily improving and good survival mainly because of screening of breast cancer
• Cancers in the young, tend to be more aggressive

Modifiable Risk Factors

• Having children
• Birth control
• Hormone therapy after menopause
• Breastfeeding
• Healthy life style
• Physical activity
• Palpable mass in a woman’s breast-potentially serious lesion
• All palpable lesions require evaluation
• Early detection is the key to cure
• Breast self-examination : Every woman should be encouraged to do breast self-examination on monthly basis.

Regular Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) should also be performed by a health practitioner to early detect any signs of Cancers.

• At age 20, CBE every 1 to 3 years
• After age 40, CBE every year

 At higher risk: more frequent exams.

• Being over 50 or postmenopausal
• A family history of breast cancer
• Having had no pregnancies or a first pregnancy after age 30
• Obesity
• Heavy alcohol use