Breast Cancer, CARE2CURE

Overview

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in India, accounting for nearly 1 in 4 of all cancers in women. The good news: when detected at Stage 0 or 1, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. Awareness, self-examination, and timely screening save thousands of lives every year.

⚠ Risk Factors

Age (most diagnoses occur after 40, but Indian women are increasingly diagnosed in their 30s)
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
Early menarche (before 12) or late menopause (after 55)
Not having children, or first pregnancy after 30
Obesity, especially after menopause
Hormone replacement therapy (long-term use)
Sedentary lifestyle and high-fat diet
Alcohol consumption

🔍 Symptoms to Watch

A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
Change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Dimpling, puckering, or redness of breast skin
Nipple discharge (especially if bloody) or inversion
Persistent pain in one breast
Scaly, peeling, or flaking skin around the nipple

🩺 Screening & Detection

Self-examination: Monthly, ideally 7 days after periods begin. Watch for any changes.
Clinical breast exam: Every 3 years for women aged 25–39; annually after 40.
Mammogram: Every 1–2 years from age 40 onwards, or earlier if family history exists.
Ultrasound: Often used alongside mammograms for younger women with dense breast tissue.

🛡 Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week
Limit alcohol intake
Breastfeed if possible (reduces lifetime risk)
Avoid long-term hormone therapy without medical advice
Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains

When should you see a doctor?

See a doctor immediately if you notice any lump, persistent breast pain, skin changes, or nipple discharge. Don't wait. Most lumps turn out to be benign, but the ones that aren't are most treatable when caught early.

Talk to Care2Cure →

A note: The information on this page is for awareness and education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or any symptoms, please consult a qualified oncologist or your primary doctor. Care2Cure is happy to help you connect with a specialist, just email care2cureorg@gmail.com.