Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers prevalent in India. Lifestyle, environmental factors and genetics are among the major causes of breast cancer. However, could it be hereditary? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Abhay Kumar SM, Consultant – Medical Oncology, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, said, “About 5 to 20 per cent of breast cancer cases are hereditary which run in families for generations. However, it is important to remember that not all breast cancers are hereditary.
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causes of breast cancer
“Of all the lifestyle factors, urbanization, consumption of a diet high in fat and low in vegetables, physical inactivity and obesity are considered important risk factors for the development of breast cancer. Late marriage, late child birth and abstinence from breastfeeding are often ignored, but these are major contributing factors to breast cancer,” said Dr Abhay Kumar SM.
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Symptoms to watch out for
“Breast cancer patients usually have a lump in the breast that is painless, hard, and fixed in the breast tissue. As the disease progresses, they may experience skin thickening, ulceration, and discoloration. Some patients may also develop nipple shrinkage, nipple discharge, especially bloody discharge. Dr. Abhay Kumar SM said, “In the advanced stage, the patient may also have a lump in the armpit.”
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Can breast cancer be detected in early stages?
To start treatment of any type of cancer, it is important to detect it in its early stages. “Breast cancer can be detected in its early stages through mammography. Screening mammography is nothing but an X-ray of the breast tissue and is a valuable tool to detect breast cancer at an early stage. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and increases the chance of cure. Thus, all women are advised to undergo regular mammogram once a year starting from the age of 40,” the oncologist said.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
