Early detection key to treating breast cancer

We are in the middle of yet another breast-cancer awareness month. The city looks draped in pink with scores of people running for the cause, wearing pink ribbons, pink t-shirts and carrying think pink slogans. But it is important to take the message of “this can happen to any one of us” to all. Breast cancer if detected early can be completely cured is a fact that gives hope to millions of women worldwide. The most crucial practice of regular examination and early detection is the only possible way to treat breast cancer. Medical experts say breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer and death in women — reason being, late detection of the cancer. Dr.Usha Sethi, Specialist Gynecologist at Al Rafa Poly Clinic, Tecom said, “One way to deal with concerns about breast cancer is to be aware and get more and more information about the ways to detect cancer at an early stage. The cure of breast cancer lies in its early detection.’“Medical specialists have described certain risk factors which include age and genetic make-up of an individual. About 5 to 10 per cent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, resulting directly from gene defects (called mutations) inherited from a parent. But certain risk factors such as alcohol intake, use of contraceptives and being overweight can be changed,“ she added. Dr.Sethi recommends that all women above 20 years should do self-examination at least once a month. If any lump, discharge or any other skin changes are detected on breasts, one should see the doctor as soon as possible. According to recent studies, 80 to 90 per cent of patients all over the world with breast cancer detect the lumps with their own hands and then ask for further medical aid. In fact, it was said earlier that 1 in 12 women have a lifetime risk of breast cancer — this is now revised to 1 in 8. Other screening tools for early detection of breast cancer include clinical breast examination, mammography and MRI for women considered to be of high risk. Further, biopsy can be done to detect if it is benign or malignant. In case it is found to be malignant, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgical intervention is the treatment of choice, depending upon its spread to other parts of the body. Even after eradication of breast cancer, regular follow-ups and screenings should be done to prevent recurrence. Dr.Sethi is hopeful on reduction of breast cancer cases. “A decade from now, we will see a reduction in breast cancer cases because of early detection. We must start educating girls about it at a very young age”, the doctor added. From : Khaleej times.