Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer

Have you ever wondered what breast cancer really is?
It happens when some cells in the breast start growing in an unusual and uncontrolled way. Over time, these cells can form a lump (called a tumor) and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women — but here’s the good news: thanks to early detection and modern treatments, more people are surviving and living healthy lives than ever before!

Understanding Risk and Prevention

Did you know that certain factors can increase your chances of developing breast cancer?
These include things like:

• Getting older
• Having a family history of breast cancer
• Carrying certain genetic changes (like BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• Hormonal influences
• Being overweight
• Unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol
   

But remember — having risk factors doesn’t mean you will get breast cancer. It just means it’s even more important to take care of yourself.

Here are a few simple habits that can help reduce your risk:

🌿 Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
🏃‍♀️ Stay active — even a brisk walk every day helps
🚭 Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
🧘 Manage stress and maintain a healthy weight
💗 Go for regular breast check-ups and screenings

If you have a strong family history or genetic risk, your doctor might suggest genetic counseling, extra screening, or even preventive treatment options to keep you safe.

Early Detection and Diagnosis

When it comes to breast cancer, early detection saves lives.
Catching it early often means it’s easier to treat — and even cure.

Here’s how you can stay alert:

🔹 Breast Self-Examination (BSE): Check your breasts once a month so you know what’s normal for you. If something feels different, talk to your doctor.
🔹 Clinical Breast Exam: Have your doctor examine your breasts during regular health visits.
🔹 Mammogram: This is the most trusted screening test — it can spot tiny changes even before symptoms appear.
🔹 Ultrasound or MRI: These may be used if you have dense breast tissue or a higher risk.

If something unusual is found, doctors may do a biopsy to confirm whether it’s cancer and identify the type, grade, and stage. This helps in planning the most effective, personalized treatment for you.

Understanding Your Diagnosis

Getting a breast cancer diagnosis can feel scary — and that’s completely natural. But understanding what it means can help you feel more in control.

Here are some key things your doctor will explain:

• Type of Cancer: For example, ductal or lobular carcinoma
   
• Hormone Receptor Status: Does your cancer grow in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone?
   
• HER2 Status: This protein can influence how your cancer behaves — and how it’s treated
   
• Stage: Shows how far the cancer has spread
   

At Dr. Bharat Dua’s Center, every patient receives a detailed evaluation using the latest imaging, lab, and molecular tests — so your treatment is as precise and effective as possible.

Treatment Options

Breast cancer treatment has come a long way — and there are many ways to fight it effectively.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may include:

• Surgery: To remove the tumor (lumpectomy or mastectomy)
   
• Radiation Therapy: To kill any leftover cancer cells after surgery
   
• Chemotherapy: To shrink or destroy cancer cells before or after surgery
   
• Hormone Therapy: For cancers affected by hormones
   
• Targeted Therapy or Immunotherapy: Modern treatments that attack cancer cells directly with fewer side effects

At Narayana Hospital, Dr. Bharat Dua uses cutting-edge radiation techniques like APBI (Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation) and IORT (Intraoperative Radiotherapy).
These methods reduce radiation to healthy tissues, shorten treatment time, and help maintain a natural breast appearance.

Breast Reconstruction

After surgery, some patients choose breast reconstruction to restore the breast’s shape and confidence.
This can be done right away during cancer surgery or later, depending on your health and treatment plan.
Dr. Bharat works closely with expert plastic surgeons to ensure the best possible results—both medically and cosmetically.

Life After Treatment — Living as a Survivor

Finishing treatment is not the end — it’s a new beginning.
Survivorship is about rebuilding your strength, health, and happiness.

At Dr. Bharat Dua’s center, our care doesn’t stop when treatment ends. We help you with:

• Regular check-ups to ensure cancer doesn’t return
• Rehabilitation for fatigue or swelling (lymphedema)
• Nutrition and lifestyle guidance
• Emotional and psychological support for you and your family

We believe in whole-person care — helping you heal not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too.

Not Every Breast Lump is Cancer

Finding a lump can be scary — but not all lumps mean cancer.
Conditions like fibroadenomas, cysts, or mastitis are common and often harmless. Still, it’s always wise to get any breast change checked by a specialist. Early consultation gives peace of mind and ensures the right care if needed.