Globally, October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The campaign is a natural way to raise awareness, prevention, and early detection. It is known to be a fact that Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women, and many women have a high risk of losing their lives because of late detection. However, early detection allows for life-saving treatment to occur. Early detection will allow the early treatment of the disease before it spreads, leading to survival from breast cancer. Being aware of breast cancer will enable women to obtain education and to make lifestyle changes to lower their risk.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides opportunities for women to engage in conversations about their health. It provides an opportunity for women with family or community support to encourage others to get screened and receive preventive care.
Dr. Shiva Kumar Uppala, a cancer specialist from Bangalore, supports this campaign. He has been actively involved in sharing messages about prevention and early detection for a very long time. Because of his work and support of the campaign, women have been able to receive information and direction to access care at the right time.
Screening is the most effective method for detecting breast cancer early. Breast cancer screening can spot little changes before any signs or symptoms can be seen. Early identification of breast cancer facilitates better treatment options. Evidence indicates that early or prompt detection can lead to a higher than 90% survival rate for breast cancer.
The mammogram test is the most common method of detection, as it allows medical professionals to visualize any growths or lumps that can not be felt externally (by hand). Screening also includes doctor's check-ups, or other scans as appropriate. Medical professionals recommend annual or routine screening at age 40.
In Bangalore, many hospitals provide advanced breast cancer screening technologies that also offer affordable packages, so the tests should be accessible to everyone. Women should take advantage of these facilities and opportunities to protect their health. Screening is not just a test; it is a step that can save someone's life.
As per the latest studies, every woman is at risk of breast cancer; however, some factors increase the risk. Age is a significant factor. The older a woman is, the higher her risk. Family history of breast cancer, or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, also increases the risk.
Lifestyle choices are also significant. Diet, obesity, alcohol use, having children in your thirties, and long-term cancer treatment with hormones can also increase risk.
There are ways to prevent the disease with a healthy lifestyle and routine breast exams. Women should ask their healthcare provider about their individualized risk profile. Understanding the risk factors will assist women in making informed health decisions.
Preparing for a mammogram is simple. Please avoid using deodorants, powders, or creams on the day of your test, as they may interfere with the images. If you can, schedule your test a few days after your menstrual period to prevent tender breasts.
You may bring any previous reports or scans (e.g., mammograms from the last two years) to the appointment, which may help your doctors to evaluate changes over time. Be assured, and stay calm during your experience; the screening process is often fast, easy, safe, and painless. Proper preparations will ease your breast cancer screening process.
The early warning signs of breast cancer are usually simple to recognize if you know what you are looking for. The most recognized sign of breast cancer is a lump in the breast or lump in axilla. A lump can be the only sign; some women may notice physical changes in breast size and texture. Other signs could be nipple discharge, inverted nipple, and dimpling of the skin. Redness and swelling could also be signs.
It is important to remember that not all breast lumps are cancerous. However, every breast change should still be discussed with your physician. The sooner breast cancer is discovered, the better the prognosis for the patient. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to better identify these signs and alerts. Awareness means women may be more inclined to seek help sooner.
After a breast cancer screening, your doctor will explain your results. If the mammogram results are good, you'll continue screening once a year. This is part of prevention and longer-term care.
If the mammogram results are bad, don't worry. This does not mean cancer in every case. The doctor would recommend testing, such as an ultrasound, an MRI, or a biopsy. These tests will provide additional information.
It is vital to speak with a breast cancer specialist in Bangalore regarding your situation and get some advice. Receiving specialised care ensures you will have the right diagnosis and treatment plan without delay.
Knowledge is an important tool. You can contribute to caring for your community through outreach and activities related to October Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Share educational information on social media. Promote early screening with your networks. Encourage them to go for a breast cancer screening.
Support NGOs and hospitals that run awareness activities in October. These activities provide information and education to women who wouldn't have access otherwise.
Dr. Shiva Kumar Uppala has developed a lot of community screening programs in Bangalore with respect to breast cancer; his work assists many women in taking the first steps towards prevention and earlier care.
Dr. Shiva Kumar Uppala is an esteemed surgeon and surgical oncologist based in Bangalore; he has performed over 500 cancer surgeries. Dr. Uppala has a strong interest in early detection of cancer and personalized treatment plans.
His clinic provides patients with comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment options, state-of-the-art treatment conditions, and considerate and compassionate patient care.
Diagnosing breast cancer early can save lives. A person's awareness, screening, and early intervention are among the many factors that can affect the medical outcome. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, be active in your health and plan a screening, and encourage others to have one as well. Early detection can make a huge difference.
