Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women and is the second most common cancer (after cervical cancer) among Indian women.
Screening implies detection of cancer before it develops or in the early stage when it is more likely to be curable.
Breast cancer is often detected in the late stages as it presents as a painless nodule or lump which often goes unnoticed , especially in women with large breasts. If a woman learns the technique of self examination and performs it every month, she stands a higher chance of diagnosing that small lump or change and report it to her doctor.
The breast is subjected to various hormonal effects during the different phases of the menstrual cycle and therefore it is important to differentiate between harmless changes and suspicious lesions. A cancerous lump is typically firm to hard, painless, not very mobile, growing (does not regress except on cancer treatment) and may be associated with changes in the overlying skin or nipple (dimpling or discoloration or ulceration). In advanced cases, there may be lumps in the armpits (lymph nodes) too.
Screening for breast cancer involves different techniques :
- Breast self examination (BSE)
- Partner examination
- Regular check ups by doctor
- Screening mammography
- MRI (not recommended except for special cases)
Once cancer is suspected the patient is subjected to various tests to confirm the diagnosis. Biopsy is the gold standard technique to confirm cancer by sampling cells from the affected tissue.The breast, being an easily accessible organ is amenable for tissue diagnosis by biopsy.
What we offer at Gyneguide :
Group Counselling Session with Dr Suman Bijlani for about an hour, followed by Q & A session, whch would cover the following:
- Teaching a proper technique for Breast Self Examination
- Calculating your estimated risk for breast cancer in the next 5 years
- Screening recommendations for high risk women
- Education regarding mammography
Individual Counselling Session possible at request or for patients with special needs (e.g. the patient at high risk for breast cancer)