Know Breast Cancer

Structured differently from men- physically, emotionally and genetically, women today suffer from a multitudinous range of diseases and topping the chart is Breast cancer. According to Population based Cancer Registry of India, a quarter of the all women suffering from cancer in India are breast cancer patients. If this staggering figure rings a bell of alarm and evokes a plaintive yelp of concern, then here is the happy news. Worry not! Breast cancers can be easily treated if identified at an early stage.

Symptoms

Since early detection is a pre requisite, here are a few early signs that must be known to every woman.

a) A lump or mass of tissue

b) Any sagging or dimpling of the skin

c) Fluid from the nipple or a

d) Red patch of skin

These signs are suggestive of breast cancer though not confirmatory. A physical examination by a practiced and licensed medical officer and mammography is required to confirm the same.

A number of hard hitting facts predispose women towards breast cancer. These include:

a) Age- Present data suggest that younger women are now at a greater risk of  getting this disease than their older counterparts. Also, once affected the cancer progresses rapidly in younger women.

b) Smoking and drinking- women who can’t get past a day without a drag and a drink should know this that they have a higher chance of getting breast cancer.

c) Breast implants put women at a greater risk of getting cancer.

d) Obesity increases the risk of one getting breast cancer.

e) Avoid all forms of pollution; it can be one factor increasing the risk of cancer.

Incorporating some lifestyle changes would be good and proves to be a right way to prevent the incidence of breast cancer among women.

Since Breast cancer has become so widespread, it is important to know how to self-examine. Looking for any symptoms mentioned above can save you from getting this cancer. This examination should be done timely and in different positions-

a) Standing straight and looking in the mirror with both your arms on your hips.

b) Raising your arms above and looking for symptoms.

c) Sitting down and noticing any white/yellow fluid coming out.

d) Lying down

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent cancer but there are things that women can do to reduce their risk of getting breast cancer. By changing risk factors that are under your control such as exercising regularly, limiting consumption of alcohol and staying at a healthy weight, you can decrease your risk. Breast feeding for several months may also reduce breast cancer risk. If you notice any symptom then you should pay a visit to the doctor without any delay.

A lot can be achieved with simple precautions and early detection so let’s get together in this endeavor to spread awareness among women and help prevent this incapacitating disease.

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