Learn about breast cancer causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options available at Dr. Anjali Singh’s clinic in Bhubaneswar, with practical tips for Indian patients.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. It can start in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple (ductal carcinoma) or in the glands that produce milk (lobular carcinoma). While it affects both men and women, the vast majority of cases occur in women.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Most breast cancers arise from a combination of genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors. Understanding these can help you assess your personal risk.
Age and Genetics
Women over the age of 40 have a higher risk, and a family history of breast or ovarian cancer (especially mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes) significantly increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
Hormonal Influences
Early onset of menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), and prolonged use of hormone‑replacement therapy can raise risk levels.
Lifestyle Factors
Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking have all been linked to higher breast‑cancer rates in Indian women.
Recognising the Symptoms
Early breast cancer often produces no noticeable signs, which is why regular screening is vital. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
- Changes in breast size or shape.
- Skin dimpling, puckering or redness.
- Nipple discharge (other than breast‑milk) or inversion.
- Persistent pain in the breast or nipple.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you notice any of the above changes, or if you are due for routine screening (mammogram or clinical breast exam), schedule an appointment promptly. Early evaluation greatly improves treatment outcomes.
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed in Bhubaneswar?
Dr. Anjali Singh’s clinic follows a step‑wise diagnostic pathway that aligns with national guidelines.
- Clinical Breast Examination (CBE): A thorough physical exam by a trained surgeon.
- Imaging: Diagnostic mammography and, when needed, ultrasound or MRI.
- Biopsy: Fine‑needle aspiration, core‑needle biopsy, or excisional biopsy to obtain tissue.
- Pathology: Histopathological analysis to determine cancer type, grade and hormone‑receptor status.
- Staging: CT scan, PET‑CT or bone scan to assess spread, if required.
The clinic’s partnership with reputable radiology centres in Bhubaneswar ensures quick turnaround of results, often within 48‑72 hours.
Treatment Options Available at Dr. Anjali Singh’s Clinic
Based on the stage and biology of the tumour, Dr. Singh offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.
- Surgery: Breast‑conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or mastectomy, performed with on‑copier sentinel‑node biopsy to minimise axillary dissection.
- Radiotherapy: External‑beam radiation, including newer techniques like intensity‑modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for precise targeting.
- Systemic Therapy:
- Chemotherapy – standard regimens such as AC (Adriamycin + Cyclophosphamide) followed by Paclitaxel.
- Hormonal therapy – Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors for hormone‑receptor‑positive tumours.
- Targeted therapy – Trastuzumab for HER2‑positive cancers, administered in the clinic’s infusion suite.
- Reconstruction: Immediate or delayed breast reconstruction using implants or autologous tissue, tailored to patient preference.
All treatment plans are discussed in a multidisciplinary tumour board that includes medical oncologists, radiologists and pathologists from nearby tertiary hospitals.
Prevention and Lifestyle Measures
While not all risk factors are modifiable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower your chances of developing breast cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight – aim for a BMI < 25 kg/m².
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate‑intensity exercise each week.
- Limit alcohol to no more than one standard drink per day.
- Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes in your diet.
- Consider regular breast‑self‑examination and schedule clinical exams annually after age 40.
Practical Tips for Patients in Bhubaneswar
Navigating cancer care can be daunting. Here are some Bhubaneswar‑specific pointers to make your journey smoother.
- Location: Dr. Anjali Singh’s clinic is located at OPD No. 15, First Floor, IDCO Plot, No. A2, Po‑Janla, Infocity, Patia, Bhubaneswar – easily reachable by city buses and auto‑rickshaws.
- Financial Assistance: Eligible patients can apply for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) for cash‑less treatment at partnered hospitals.
- Diagnostic Labs: The clinic works closely with accredited labs such as Apollo Diagnostics and SRL in Bhubaneswar for quick pathology reports.
- Support Groups: The Odisha Breast Cancer Support Network holds monthly meetings at the Regional Cancer Centre, providing peer support and counseling.
- Transport: For out‑of‑town patients, the hospital offers a shuttle service from the Bhubaneswar Railway Station on weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breast cancer curable if detected early?
Yes. When the disease is confined to the breast (stage I or II), the five‑year survival rate in India exceeds 80 %. Early detection through regular screening is the key factor.
How often should I get a mammogram?
The Indian Council of Medical Research recommends women aged 40‑49 have a mammogram every two years, and women 50 and older every year, provided they have average risk. Those with a strong family history may need earlier or more frequent imaging.
Can I receive treatment under Ayushman Bharat?
Yes. Dr. Anjali Singh’s clinic is a recognised empanelled centre for PMJAY. Patients can receive surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and follow‑up care without out‑of‑pocket expenses, subject to eligibility criteria.