Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. The often delayed detection of breast cancer symptoms makes it even more dangerous. Many women had no symptoms of breast cancer that would allow them to understand that cancer was lurking in their bodies. Actress Mahila Chaudhary also mentioned that she had no symptoms and had simply gone to the hospital for a routine annual health checkup. Now, let’s learn from a doctor how such a serious disease can remain so silently hidden.
Doctors say that cancer is a disease that the sooner it is detected, the sooner it can be treated, and the faster the recovery. However, many people often ignore the symptoms of cancer. Especially with regard to breast cancer, people believe that young women cannot get it or that young girls are not at risk. This is not the case.
Silent Breast Cancer
According to Dr. Pragya Chigurupati, a breast oncoplastic surgeon at AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, breast cancer can progress without any obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. Because young women’s breast tissue is denser, small tumors can remain hidden. In many cases, a woman may feel perfectly fine until the disease becomes serious. IVF specialist Dr. Ruchi Bhandari says that 70-75% of women who recover have no family history, meaning most at-risk individuals are unaware of their risk.
Do Your Own Breast Cancer Test at Home
Menstruating women should perform a home test once a month. It’s best to palpate your breasts 3-5 days after your period, when they are least sensitive. If you are menopausal, you should self-examine your breasts on the same dates every day. If you feel anything unusual when you touch your breasts, consult a doctor. To test for breast cancer, stand in front of a mirror and check the shape and size of your breasts. If you notice any dimpling, swelling, skin dimpling, or skin-like growths, consult a doctor. Raise your arms and check the sides for lumps. Use your three middle fingers and use circular motions. You can also do this while lying down. If you feel anything different, not necessarily pain, consult a specialist.
Why is breast cancer more common in young women?
Doctors believe that breast cancer is increasing in women under 40. This is due to lifestyle changes, eating more processed foods, reduced physical activity, alcohol and smoking at a young age, and increased body fat. This increases estrogen levels, which promote tumor growth. Another factor is reproductive and hormonal changes, including early pregnancy, late childbearing, not breastfeeding, early menstruation, and late menopause. Genetic factors can also contribute to this, including excessive stress, excessive use of plastic and cosmetics.
