What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease where breast cells start growing uncontrollably. These abnormal cells form a lump or mass called a tumour. If not treated early, cancer cells can spread to tissues and other parts of the body.
Although both men and women can develop breast cancer, it is far more common in women. Moreover, over the last few years, the number of cases has increased significantly across both urban & rural areas.
Breast cancer in women usually starts in the milk ducts or milk-producing glands of the breast. In some cases, it grows slowly, while in others, it can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not diagnosed on time.
What are the Types of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can be divided into different types depending on where the cancer begins and how it behaves in the body.
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Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) Invasive ductal carcinoma is the common type of breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts and then spreads to the nearby breast tissues. If it is not diagnosed properly, it can affect the other parts of the body as well.
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Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) Invasive lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-producing glands called lobules. It can spread to nearby tissues and may sometimes be harder to detect on scans.
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Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) DCIS is a non-invasive or early-stage breast cancer. It starts in the milk ducts of the breast but does not spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. With timely treatment, the chances of rey are very high.
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Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Triple-negative breast cancer is a more aggressive type of breast cancer. It does not have estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors, which makes treatment options more limited compared to other breast cancers.
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Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but fast-growing type of breast cancer. It may cause redness, swelling, warmth, and thickening of the breast skin instead of a noticeable lump.
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Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Metastatic breast cancer is also commonly known as stage 4 breast cancer. Cancer spreads from the breast to other organs in this type, such as the liver, bones, lungs, or brain.
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Other Rare Types of Breast Cancer Apart from these major types, there are also some less common forms of breast cancer, including Paget's disease of the breast, medullary carcinoma, mucinous carcinoma, and tubular carcinoma. These types are less frequently diagnosed but still require proper medical attention.
Types of Tumours That Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer
Apart from these common forms of breast cancer, there are certain rare breast tumours that may increase the chances of developing cancer in the future. Some of them are non-cancerous, while others are considered early abnormal cell changes that require regular monitoring and attention.
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Phyllodes Tumour (Cystosarcoma Phyllodes) It is a rare type of breast tumour that develops in the connective tissue of the breast rather than the milk ducts or lobules. It is mostly non-cancerous, but nearly 25% cases can become cancerous over time. It mostly occurs in women in their 40s, and can appear as painless breast lumps.
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Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) It is a condition where abnormal cells develop in the lobules and stay confined there. Although it is not considered a type of cancer, it can increase the risk of developing invasive breast cancer.
How Common is Breast Cancer in India?
Breast cancer is one of the common cancers affecting women in India, and its cases are increasing every year. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), breast cancer is now the leading cancer among women, and accounts for nearly 10% of cancer-related deaths in the country.
Experts recommend screening, self-breast examination, and early medical consultation to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.
What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer symptoms can vary from person to person depending on the type and stage of the disease. In some cases, symptoms may develop slowly, while in others they may appear suddenly.
Common symptoms of breast cancer include:
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Lump or thickening in the breast
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Swelling in part of the breast
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Breast pain or discomfort
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Changes in breast size or shape
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Redness or irritation of the skin
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Dimpling of the breast skin
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Nipple pain
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Nipple discharge, sometimes bloody
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Inverted nipple
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Swelling under the arm
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Persistent tenderness in the breast area
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Unexplained breast discomfort
Below are the symptoms of two common types, including Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and Invasive Lobular Carcinoma, explained.
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Symptoms of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
Individuals suffering from IDC may experience symptoms such as:
- A hard lump in the breast
- Breast pain or tenderness
- Swelling in the breast area
- Skin thickening or dimpling
- Nipple discharge
- Changes in breast shape or size
- Redness around the nipple
- Swelling in the lymph nodes under the arm
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Symptoms of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
The common symptoms of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma include:
- Thickening or fullness in the breast
- Swelling or heaviness in one breast
- Changes in breast texture
- Mild breast discomfort
- Flattening or inversion of the nipple
- Persistent breast tenderness
- Skin changes around the breast
- Unusual fullness in the underarm area
What Causes Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can develop due to a combination of genetic, hormonal, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Although the exact cause is not always known, certain conditions can increase the risk of abnormal breast cell growth over time.
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Causes of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
The following factors may increase the risk of developing Invasive Ductal Carcinoma:
- Genetic Mutations: Inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can significantly increase the risk of developing IDC.
- Hormonal Changes: Long-term exposure to estrogen due to early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy may increase the chances of abnormal cell growth in the milk ducts.
- Obesity and Lifestyle Factors: Excess body weight, lack of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption may contribute to the development of IDC.
- Increasing Age: The risk of IDC increases with age, especially in women above 50 years.
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Causes of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
The following factors can increase the risk of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): It is associated with a higher risk of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma in women who have gone through menopause.
- Breast Cancer in the Family: If anyone in your family has suffered from breast cancer, then your risk of developing Invasive Lobular Carcinoma is higher.
- Hormonal Factors: Invasive Lobular Carcinoma is commonly diagnosed in older women, particularly after menopause, due to hormonal changes in the body.
- Genetic Factors: There are some genetic mutations and abnormal cell changes in the lobules that appear to be passed down through the family that may make breast cancer more likely to develop.
What are the Complications of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer can lead to several complications, especially when it progresses to advanced stages or spreads to other parts of the body. These complications may affect overall health and daily functioning.
The most common complications of breast cancer include:
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Spread of Cancer (Metastasis): Breast cancer can spread to other organs such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain, leading to serious health problems.
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Lymph Node Involvement: Cancer cells may spread to nearby lymph nodes, especially under the arms, increasing the risk of further spread in the body.
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Chronic Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain in the breast, chest, or surrounding areas may interfere with daily activities and physical comfort.
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Breast Shape and Skin Changes: Tumour growth can cause swelling, skin thickening, dimpling, or visible changes in the size and appearance of the breast.
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Fatigue and Weakness: Breast cancer and its treatments may cause ongoing tiredness, low energy levels, and physical weakness.
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Emotional and Mental Health Problems: Anxiety, stress, depression, and emotional distress are common due to diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes.
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Reduced Mobility: Pain, swelling, or treatment-related side effects may affect arm and shoulder movement.
When Should I See My Healthcare Provider?
Medical attention is important if you notice any unusual changes in your breasts or symptoms that persist over time.
See a healthcare provider if you experience:
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A Lump in the Breast or Underarm: Any new lump, thickening, or swelling in the breast or underarm area should be checked by a doctor.
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Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Sudden or unusual changes in the appearance of the breast may require medical evaluation.
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Persistent Breast Pain: Continuous pain or discomfort in the breast that does not improve should not be ignored.
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Skin Changes on the Breast: Redness, dimpling, thickening, irritation, or peeling of the breast skin may be a warning sign of breast cancer.
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Nipple Changes or Discharge: Inverted nipples, nipple pain, or discharge, especially bloody discharge, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
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Swelling or Warmth in the Breast: Ongoing swelling, heaviness, or warmth in the breast may indicate an underlying condition.
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Symptoms Lasting Several Weeks: Any breast-related symptoms that continue or worsen over time need proper medical assessment.
Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Doctors use several tests to confirm breast cancer and determine its type, size, and extent of spread. Below are the common methods used to diagnose breast cancer:
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MammographyMammography is a specialised breast X-ray used to detect abnormal growths or tumors in the breast tissue at an early stage. It helps identify small changes in the breast even before symptoms or lumps are noticeable.
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Ultrasound Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of breast tissue. It helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is solid, which may require further testing, or fluid-filled, such as a harmless cyst.
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Biopsy A biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue or cells from the suspicious area for laboratory examination. This test is considered the most accurate method to confirm whether breast cancer cells are present.
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MRI Scan Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides highly detailed images of the breast using magnetic fields and radio waves. It is often used to evaluate the extent of cancer, detect multiple tumors, or examine dense breast tissue.
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Blood Tests Blood tests help evaluate the patient's overall health and organ function before starting treatment. They may also assist in monitoring the body's response to cancer treatment and identifying possible complications or infections.
How is Breast Cancer Treated?
Treatment and management of breast cancer depend on the type of cancer, stage of disease, tumor size, and the overall health of the patient. The main aim of treatment is to remove cancer, prevent its spread, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
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Treatment of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) treatment focuses on removing cancer from the milk ducts and preventing it from spreading to nearby tissues or other parts of the body.
- Surgery: Surgery is one of the most common treatments for IDC. Doctors may remove only the tumor through lumpectomy or remove the entire breast through mastectomy, depending on the stage and spread of cancer.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery. It helps reduce the risk of cancer returning in the breast or nearby tissues.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful medicines to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from spreading. It is often recommended when the tumor is large or when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.
- Targeted Therapy: This treatment attacks specific cancer cells by targeting the changes that help them grow. It helps stop or slow the spread of cancer while causing less harm to healthy cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Some breast cancers grow with the help of hormones such as oestrogen. Hormone therapy blocks these hormones or lowers their levels, making it harder for cancer cells to grow and spread.
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Treatment of Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) management aims to control cancer growth, prevent spread, and maintain long-term health because this type can sometimes be difficult to detect early.
- Surgery: Surgical treatment may involve removing the tumor or the affected breast tissue, depending on the extent of cancer spread and involvement of surrounding tissues.
- Hormone Therapy: ILC is often hormone receptor-positive, so hormone-blocking medicines are commonly used to slow or stop cancer growth and reduce recurrence risk.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation treatment may be recommended after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells and lower the chances of cancer returning in the breast area.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be advised in advanced stages or when cancer spreads beyond the breast and lymph nodes to other organs.
- Regular Monitoring and Imaging: Since ILC can spread in a diffuse pattern, regular mammograms, MRI scans, and follow-up checkups are important for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence early.
Breast Cancer in Pregnancy
Breast cancer during pregnancy is rare but serious. Treatment depends on the pregnancy stage, however, doctors may recommend the following:
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Safe chemotherapy after the first trimester
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Surgery if necessary
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Regular monitoring of the mother and baby
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Avoiding radiation during pregnancy
What is the Prognosis of Breast Cancer?
Prognosis of breast cancer depends on early detection and treatment. Early-stage breast cancer has high survival rates, while late-stage cancer is more difficult to treat. With modern treatment, many patients live long and healthy lives after rey. Regular follow-up is important to prevent recurrence.
Is Breast Cancer Curable?
Yes, breast cancer is often curable if detected early and treated properly in its early stages. Surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy have significantly improved cure rates. Even advanced cases can be controlled with long-term treatment, although a curable treatment may depend on stage and response.
How Can I Prevent Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer cannot always be prevented, but risk can be reduced:
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Maintain a healthy body weight.
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Exercise regularly and stay physically active.
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Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
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Limit alcohol consumption.
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Attend regular breast cancer screenings and mammograms as recommended.
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Perform regular breast self-examinations to notice unusual changes early.
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Discuss the family history of breast cancer with a doctor.
Does Health Insurance Cover Breast Cancer?
Yes, health insurance plans in India generally breast cancer treatment, including expenses related to hospitalisation, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, diagnostic tests, and prescribed medications.
age is available through both regular health insurance plans and critical illness health insurance. While regular health insurance helps actual treatment costs up to the sum insured, critical illness plans provide a lump-sum benefit upon diagnosis of ed cancer conditions.
Most critical illness policies have an initial waiting period of 90 daysfrom the policy start date and may also include a survival period of 15-30 days after medical procedure is completed.
Similarly, regular health insurance plans often breast cancer after a waiting period of approximately 2 years. If caused by a pre-existing condition, it is ed after a waiting period of up to 3 years.
Since waiting periods, age limits, inclusions, and exclusions vary among insurers, it is important to carefully review the policy documents before purchasing a plan.
How Much Health Insurance Coverage is Needed for Breast Cancer Treatment?
The amount of health insurance age needed for breast cancer depends on the stage of cancer, treatment plan, and overall duration of care. Early-stage breast cancer treatment may require age of around ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh in some cases.
However, treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and long-term follow-up care can increase medical expenses significantly. A higher age amount of around ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh may provide better financial protection for advanced or long-term treatment.
FAQs
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Q1. What is the most common symptom of breast cancer?
Ans: A lump in the breast or underarm area is one of the most common early signs of breast cancer. -
Q2. Can breast cancer occur without pain?
Ans: Yes, breast cancer often develops without pain in the early stages, which is why regular screening is important. -
Q3. Is breast cancer only seen in women?
Ans: No, men can also develop breast cancer, although it is much more common in women.
