Empowerment Through Awareness: Fighting Breast Cancer with Early Detection

Empowerment Through Awareness: Fighting Breast Cancer with Early Detection
By Dr. Jilla Swapna Consultant Radiation Oncology, MBBS, DNB (Radiation Oncology), European Society of Medical Oncology, Malla Reddy Narayana Multispecialty Hospital, Hyderabad

The Global Challenge
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women across the world. According to Globocan 2022 statistics, an estimated 2.3 million women were diagnosed globally. If the current trend continues, this number may rise to 3.2 million new cases per year by 2050.
 It is also the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, claiming nearly one in two lives in low- and middle-income countries.

Early Detection Saves Lives
The key to improving survival lies in early detection, which can increase cure rates by up to 90%. Regular screening and awareness of risk factors play a crucial role in identifying the disease at a stage when it is most treatable.

“Breast cancer detected early is breast cancer defeated early,” says Dr. Jilla Swapna, Consultant Radiation Oncologist at Malla Reddy Narayana Multispecialty Hospital.

Dr. Jilla Swapna,

Consultant Radiation Oncologist

at Malla Reddy Narayana Multispecialty Hospital.

Understanding the Risk Factors
Breast cancer does not have a single cause, it results from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors.
● Lifestyle: Obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
● Reproductive History: Not having children, not breastfeeding, or having the first child after the age of 30.
● Hormonal Factors: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), or long-term use of estrogen-based contraception pills.
● Family History & Genetics: Having a close relative (mother, sister, or aunt) with breast cancer increases the risk. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes also heighten the risk for both breast and ovarian cancers.
● Past Radiation Exposure: Radiation to the chest during childhood raises susceptibility.
● Previous Breast Cancer: Women who have had breast cancer once are at higher risk of developing it in the other breast.

Know the Signs - Early Detection Matters
Awareness of warning signs can lead to timely diagnosis. Look out for:
● A new painless lump in the breast or underarm area
● Change in breast size or shape
● Bloody discharge from one nipple
● Dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling of the skin resembling an orange peel

The Role of Screening
A mammogram; an X-ray of the breast remains as the most reliable method for early detection.
● Women aged 40–54 years should get a mammogram once a year.
● Women 55 years and above should undergo screening once every two years.
 Those with higher risk or previous history should consult their doctor for more frequent check-ups.

Prevention Starts with You Simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk:
● Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
● Avoid smoking and alcohol
● Stay aware and get screened

A Message of Hope
With advancing technology, improved treatment modalities, and growing awareness, breast cancer is no longer a death sentence. Institutions like Malla Reddy Narayana Multispecialty Hospital continue to lead in comprehensive cancer care, empowering women with knowledge, access, and timely intervention.
“Awareness is the first step toward survival. Every woman deserves the power of early detection,” concludes Dr. Jilla Swapna.