Latest news

Classic list

Globally incubate standards compliant channels before scalable benefits. Quickly disseminate superior deliverables whereas web-enabled applications.
4-1.webp

October 21, 2024 Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering experience, but with advances in treatment and care, many individuals can thrive as breast cancer survivors. This journey involves a deep understanding of follow-up care, survival rates, and factors contributing to a long and fulfilling life. Women are surviving 20 years and more after diagnosis. So if you are a survivor you may be eager to embrace your new life and you may be wondering about what’s next and how to maximize your future time.

The triumphs and obstacles of long-term survival have been covered in this blog, offering an expert perspective on outcome determiners, and providing practical tips for physical, emotional, and mental wellness. This inspires women who have rediscovered purpose and find joy in the decades after their diagnosis.

Follow-up care after breast cancer survival

Follow-up care is crucial for Breast Cancer survivors. Regular checkups help you in keeping up with your health , help in detecting any issues early and help in proper treatment.

Initial follow up

  • Regular visits with oncologist ( every 1 – 3 month ) and primary care  physician(1-2 months)
  • Manage treatment side effects and symptoms
  • Address concerns about hair loss, nail issues and skin issues.
  • Monitor surgical site for complications such as fluid buildup and bleeding
  • Review treatment plan ,outcomes and log term impacts
  • Address emotional concerns and connect with support
  • Manage medications and monitor for interactions
  • Encourage  healthy habits and lifestyle choices for overall wellness.

Short term follow up

  • Regular check-ins with an oncologist (3-6 month)and primary care physician (6-12 months).
  • Annual mammograms and breast exams additional imagine ( MRI and ultrasound) if needed
  • Monitor for recurrence and address concerns
  • Manage hormone therapy (if applicable)
  • Continue emotional support and counseling
  • Encourage healthy habits and lifestyle choices
  •  Review and adjust medications as needed
  • Discuss fertility preservation option and menopause concerns

Long term follow up

  • Annual check-ins with oncologist  and primary care physician in every 12 months
  • Annual mammograms and breast exams every 12 months , additional imaging as needed.
  • Monitor for late effects and address (e.g lymphedema , osteoporosis ) and take  concern about new system
  • Manage hormone therapy and adjust therapy as needed.
  • Continue emotional support and take counseling or therapy
  • Encourage healthy habits and lifestyle choices
  • Review and adjust medications as needed
  • Address fertility and menopause concerns
  • Discuss genetic counseling and testing

Extended follow up

  • Annual check-ins with oncologist and primary care physician annually
  • Annual mammograms and breast exams annually, adding imaging if need
  • Monitor for recurrence or any side effects  and address concerns about any new symptoms or changes
  • Monitor for second cancers  changes and address concern  genetic risk factors
  • Continue emotional support and take  counseling and therapy
  • Encourage healthy habits and lifestyle choices
  •  Review and adjust medications as needed
  • Address fertility and concern about menopause symptoms
  • Discuss genetic counseling and testing
  • Create a personalized survivorship care plan with your health care team Outline follow-up schedule, screenings, and tests

Living as a breast cancer survivor- Tips To Live Healthy

Always discuss with your health care team and make a plan which helps you lead a good life after breast cancer survival . It’s very important to keep yourself updated with your health issues for a happy and peaceful journey of your life. By prioritizing  your follow-up schedule and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can flourish and live a full, vibrant life after breast cancer.

Here are some Recommendations for Breast Cancer Survivors

  • Healthy Habits. –  Eat a balanced diet ,Exercise regularly , Get enough sleep , Manage stress
  • Screenings – Annual mammogram , Regular gynecologic exams , Bone density scans (if needed)
  • Genetic Counseling – Discuss genetic risk factor , Consider BRCA1/2 testing
  • Fertility Option –  Discuss preservation options , Consider egg/embryo freezing
  • Emotional Support –  Connect with support group , Address anxiety/depression
  • Medication Management – Review/adjust medication , Monitor side effects
  • Primary Care –  Regular check-ins , Monitor overall health
  • Stay Informed – Latest research/treatments , Connect with breast cancer organizations

Survivorship care plan

A Survivorship Care Plan is a personalized  guideline for breast cancer survivors. This plan includes their medical history,  all follow-up care schedules, recommended screenings if needed, medication management, lifestyle guidance, emotional support and resources, fertility and menopause management , genetic counseling, potential long-term effects, and provides a list of resources and support services, ensuring comprehensive care coordination. So breast Cancer survivors need to have a survivorship care plan for a happy and healthy life. This plan navigates their journey with confidence and personalized support.

Conclusion

After completing breast cancer treatment, ongoing follow-up care is a vital component for the well being  of your health which helps in managing long-term effects and addressing emotional concerns. By committing a tailored  follow-up care plan, you can significantly reduce the risk of cancer recurrence ,  detect the chances of secondary cancers or any new symptoms early and you can also  manage medication side effects. Always remember that every breast cancer survivor has a unique journey, so it’s important  to stay proactive, prioritize your health, and celebrate your strength and resilience. With comprehensive follow-up care, you can thrive beyond breast cancer and live a full, vibrant life. Dr. Rajeev Aggarwal is widely acknowledged as the best breast cancer doctor in Gurgaon. With his extensive knowledge and surgical skills, he excels in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of breast cancer, employing advanced surgical techniques and a personalized approach for each patient.

FAQS

  1. How long do breast Cancer survivors live?

Breast Cancer survivors live for many years after their diagnosis and treatment. Stage and type of breast cancer, Effectiveness of treatment, Overall health and lifestyle, and Genetic factors are some key factors on which the length of survival depends.

  1. Can someone live for 20 years after breast cancer?

Yes, many women survive breast cancer and live 20 and more than 20 years after diagnosis. According to The American Cancer Society reports  80-90% of women have a 20-year survival rate. Factors contributing to long-term survival are early detection and treatment, effective treatment plans, regular follow-up care, Healthy lifestyle habits, and low risk of recurrence.

  1. How Long Do Breast Cancer Survivors Live?

Breast cancer survival rates have significantly improved, with the 5-year survival rate approximately 90% and the 10-year survival rate around 83%.

  1. Can Breast Cancer Survivors Live Long Lives?

Yes, with proper care and attention, breast cancer survivors can enjoy a long and fulfilling life. Long-term survival rates are much lower for distant breast cancer than for localized and regional breast cancer. Under 15% of people with distant breast cancer live for 10 years or longer. However, there are continuous improvements in treatments for distant breast cancer.

  1. What Makes Someone a Breast Cancer Survivor?

A breast cancer survivor is anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing treatment, finished treatment, and is in remission, Survivorship encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological aspects, acknowledging the unique journey each faces.


3.webp

October 10, 2024 Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers. It is a term that can bring a wave of worry, but understanding it might lighten the burden. Early detection can help to take proactive steps towards effective treatment and improve survival rates. Keep reading to get an in-depth overview of common and lesser-known breast cancer symptoms, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, regular screenings, and timely medical attention. Like many big issues, knowledge is your best ally. Being aware of the early signs of breast cancer is crucial for early detection, which can make all the difference. Most commonly, the first symptom many notice is a new lump or mass in the breast. It’s essential to educate ourselves and act swiftly if something feels amiss. Stay observant and proactive; your health is worth it!

With over four decades of experience, Dr. Rajeev Agrawal achieved results as the best breast cancer doctor in Gurgaon. Furthermore, the most recent and innovative plastic surgery procedures are employed by him, providing his patients with state-of-the-art care while ensuring a quick recovery. This helps his patients to return to work, exercise, and their routine daily activities far faster than would otherwise be possible.

What are the early signs of breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a treatable disease if detected early. By performing self-exams, and scheduling regular mammograms, you can know your risk factors. Let’s delve into the details of common early signs of breast cancer. Formation of Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area, some changes in breast size or shape, dimpling or puckering of the skin, redness or scaliness of the skin, nipple discharge or change in nipple position, pain or tenderness in the breast and swelling in the breast or underarm area are some of the common early signs and symptoms.

Also read some of the less commonly occurring early signs illustrated below:

  1. Nipple itching or burning
  2. Change in breast vein patterns
  3. Enlarged lymph nodes under the arm
  4. Breast tenderness or pain that doesn’t go away
  5. Change in breast density
  6. Inverted nipple
  7. Discharge from the nipple (clear, yellow, or bloody)
  8. Peeling or flaking skin around the nipple
  9. Redness or inflammation of the breast
  10. Axillary lymph node swelling

What Are the Warning Signs of Breast Cancer?

The warning signs of breast cancer indicate the possibility of a serious condition:

  • Nipple discharge: A bloody or clear discharge that occurs without squeezing the nipple and only happens in one breast is a sign of breast cancer.
  • Lumps: A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit is a warning sign.
  • Breast skin changes: Dimpling, puckering, redness, or flaky skin in the breast or nipple area can be a sign of breast cancer.
  • Nipple changes: A nipple that is inverted or pulled in, or has a rash, can be a sign of breast cancer.
  • Breast size or shape changes: A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts is a warning sign.
  • Breast pain: Pain in the breast that doesn’t go away is a warning sign.
  • Fatigue: Breast cancer can cause hormonal imbalances that lead to fatigue, especially in people with advanced cancer.

While some of these signs can also be caused by other conditions, you should make an appointment with Dr. Rajeev Agrawal if you notice any changes.

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

It has been seen in some studies that risk for breast cancer is due to a combination of factors. Being a woman and getting older are the main factors that influence the risk. Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older. Some of the other risk factors have been illustrated below:

  1. Genetics (BRCA1, BRCA2 mutations).
  2. Family history.
  3. Dense breasts.
  4. Radiation exposure.
  5. Hormone replacement therapy.
  6. Obesity.
  7. Sedentary lifestyle.

Some women will get breast cancer even without any other risk factors that they know of. Having a risk factor does not mean you will get the disease, and not all risk factors have the same effect. Most women have some risk factors, but most women do not get breast cancer. Talk with your doctor about ways you can lower your risk and about screening for breast cancer.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer diagnosis at an early stage plays a critical role in the efficacy of treatment. The earlier breast cancer is found, the higher the chances of successful treatment and survival. This is because early-stage cancers are generally smaller and have not yet spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

There are various screening methods available for early detection:-

  • Mammograms: An x-ray of the breast is one of the most effective methods for early detection.
  • Ultrasound: Often used to investigate abnormalities found in a mammogram.
  • MRI: Especially useful for those with a high risk of breast cancer, providing more detailed images.

Regular self-exams and awareness of what is normal for your breasts can also be lifesaving. Knowing the first symptoms of breast cancer can prompt timely medical consultations, which can lead to early diagnosis and intervention.

What can I do to reduce my risk of developing breast cancer?

Although, there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, your risk can be reduced by making healthy choices:

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight is a risk factor for breast cancer.
  • Exercise regularly: Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, five days a week.
  • Eat a healthy diet: Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and foods with “good bacteria” like plain Greek yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. Avoid processed foods, which are high in calories, sugar, fat, and salt.
  • Limit alcohol: If you drink alcohol, try to do so in moderation or not at all.
  • Breastfeed: If possible, breastfeeding can help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
  • Get regular checkups: Women at average risk should get a clinical breast exam every one to three years between the ages of 25 and 39, and an annual mammogram starting at age 40.
  • Talk to your doctor: If you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk.

Other factors that may affect your risk of breast cancer include: Genetics, Race and ethnicity, and Breast density.

Treatments for Breast Cancer

Treatment for breast Cancer include Surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy), Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy,  Hormone therapy and Targeted therapy.

Conclusion

Understanding the early symptoms of breast cancer is a crucial step in maintaining your health. By being aware of changes in your breasts and taking action if you notice anything unusual, you can increase your chances of detecting any problems early. Familiarity with breast cancer types, including ductal, lobular, and invasive forms, guides treatment decisions and prognosis. By emphasizing breast wellness, advancing research, and promoting awareness, we can strive towards a future where breast cancer is more manageable and less life-threatening. Remember to conduct regular self-examinations, attend scheduled mammograms, and consult with your healthcare professional if you have concerns. Early detection can save lives, so stay proactive about your breast health and encourage others to do the same.

FAQs

  1. What does stage 1 breast cancer feel like?

Sometimes there are no symptoms in Stage 1 breast cancer. But there can be a palpable lump that can be felt.

  1. What are the five warning signs of breast cancer?

Lump diagnosed in breast, change in size and shape, breast skin changes, changes in nipples, abnormal mammograms.

  1. How can I test my breast cancer at home?

You can test breast cancer at home by performing monthly self-breast exams at home.

  1. What is most commonly the first symptom of breast cancer most people notice?

A lump or thickening in the breast, shapes and size changes in the nipple, itching, irregularities and swelling are some of the first symptoms of breast cancer noticed by many people.


Copyright by Ichelon 2021. All rights reserved.