Breast cancer is a nefarious disease that does not require any renewed introduction. However, what does, is a thorough outline of how to identify the disease. Here the luminary breast cancer doctor in Kolkata embarks on guiding you through that terrain.
Breast cancer screening means probing into the possibility of breast cancer in a potential patient. The screening is advised before any tangible symptoms of the disease start showing up. The leading breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata usually recommends screening as often as every two years for women belonging to the age group of 50-74 years. With age, the risks of breast cancer also skyrocket in women.
Some breast cancers could be identified upon self-examination. Any woman above the age of 20 must actively engage in self-examination for breast cancer regularly. They can look for puckering, dimpling, or any abnormal changes in the shape or symmetry of the breasts. Moreover, they should also check whether their nipples are inverted, topsy-turvy, or turned in. Aside from self-examination, there are primarily two major types of clinical breast cancer screening:
A mammogram is essentially an X-ray of the breast. It is widely acclaimed as the most-precise diagnostic method to detect breast cancer before the tumors magnify or metastasize. This early detection facilitates prompt surgical removal of the tumor, silencing any possibility of its further recurrence. Hence, having regular mammograms can significantly lower the risk of dying from cancer. Every woman should submit to an annual mammogram above the age of 40 as age can significantly skyrocket the risk factor of breast cancer.
An MRI deploys magnets and radio waves to capture precise pictures of the breast. This technique is often combined with the mammogram to render more precision-based images that can identify the degree of the malignancy. In a nutshell, this procedure is most suited for high-risk breast cancer patients. MRI must be undertaken only on the strict advice of the doctor.
Are you disposed to the risk factors of breast cancer? Talk to a breast cancer doctor in Kolkata today and find out if you are a candidate for screening.