Breast Cancer Treatment in India

Overview

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. In India, 14% of women are afflicted. One out of every eight women is at risk, and one dies every eight minutes from the disease globally.

Although it cannot be entirely prevented, early detection and timely treatment significantly improve survival rates.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow abnormally. Tumors can originate in the breast or spread from other body parts. Causes involve genetic mutations, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposure.

Stages of Breast Cancer:

• Stage I: Small tumor, confined to the breast.
• Stage II: Spread to axillary lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Large tumor; locally advanced; spread to skin, chest, and nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: Cancer has metastasized to distant organs (bone, liver, brain, lungs).

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer in India

• Clinical breast examination
• Mammography, MRI, Ultrasound
• Triple assessment
• Breast tissue biopsy
• Histopathology

Treatment Options

Surgery

Primary mode of treatment.

• Lumpectomy: Tumor and surrounding tissue removed.
• Mastectomy: Complete removal of breast(s).
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy: First few lymph nodes removed for testing.
• Axillary lymph node dissection: Multiple lymph nodes removed.

Additional options:

• Reconstructive surgery
• External breast prostheses
• Flat closure

Radiation Therapy

• Whole breast irradiation
• Partial breast irradiation
• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy
• Proton therapy

Used as adjuvant (before surgery) or neoadjuvant (after surgery) to shrink or destroy tumors.

Medication-Based Treatment

• Chemotherapy: Delivered orally or via IV.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts or arms immune system to target cancer.
• Targeted therapy: Targets specific proteins or genes.
• Hormonal therapy: Used for hormone receptor-positive cancers.

Why India?

India offers:

• Affordable treatment costs
• Renowned cancer specialists
• State-of-the-art hospitals
• Comprehensive infrastructure

These factors make India a preferred destination for foreign patients seeking breast cancer care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Age Is the Onset of Breast Cancer?
A: Mostly affects women aged 50 and above, though younger women can also be affected.

Q: Is It Possible To Cure Breast Cancer Completely?
A: Early-stage breast cancer can often be cured. Advanced cases may be managed to prolong life and ease symptoms.

Q: What Is The Most Frequently Used Treatment?
A: Most women undergo surgery, often followed by chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or radiation.

Q: How Long Can I Live After Being Diagnosed?
A: Many live for years or decades, especially with early diagnosis.

Q: How Long Does Recovery Take?
A: Incision healing takes 1–2 weeks. Full recovery may take months. Some changes may be permanent.