Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. The good news? If caught early, breast cancer can be treated extremely well. That's where breast cancer screening comes in, an innovative way to find cancer before you even have symptoms, which surely helps you in Breast Cancer Treatment in NCR. Here we discuss all that you should know regarding breast cancer screening: what it is, why you should have it, screening test types, recommended guidelines, and myths.
What is Breast Cancer Screening?
Breast cancer screening is a clinical process used by Breast Cancer surgeons in Delhi and all across the globe to identify breast cancer among women who have no visible symptoms. The goal is to identify cancer in its early stage when treatment will be most effective and less invasive. Screening won't prevent breast cancer, but if breast cancer is detected early, it will save lives.
Why is Breast Cancer Screening Important?
- Early Detection: Cancers detected by screening tend to be smaller, localised, and simpler to treat. It helps to know the Types Of Breast Cancer, which means what stage of cancer it could be.
- Improved Treatment Plans: Earlier cancer will probably entail less intensive treatments.
- Reduced Mortality: Studies show that regular screening can significantly lower the chances of death from breast cancer.
- Family History Awareness: Screening also helps women who have a family history of breast cancer to become more health-aware.
Types of Breast Cancer Screening Tests
Rohan Khandelwal, the Breast Specialist Doctor In Delhi suggests the following types of breast screening methods;
Mammogram
A low-dose X-ray of the breast and the most prevalent screening tool. Can be detected as lumps or irregularities even years ahead. Digital mammography is more accurate and is widely employed nowadays.
Breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Best for women at high risk, such as women with BRCA gene mutations. Uses radio waves and magnets to form detailed pictures. Often used together with mammograms.
Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)
A physical breast examination is conducted by a health professional. It can be used together with mammograms, especially in young women.
Breast Self-Exam (BSE)
A self-examination to look out for lumps, swelling, or changes. Not a replacement for professional screening, but helpful for personal information.
Who Should Be Tested?
Screening recommendations vary across nations and institutions, but overall, guidelines are:
- Age Group\tScreening Recommendation
- Under 40
- Not commonly advised unless at risk.
- 40–49
- Optional. Discuss with your physician when to start.
- 50–74
- Mammogram every 1–2 years.
- 75 and above
- Varies according to general health and longevity.
Women with a history of breast cancer in the family, dense breasts, or genetic mutation can be asked to begin earlier and get screened more often.
Understanding Risk Factors
You may need to get earlier or more frequent screening if you:
- Has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Have first-degree relatives (sister, mother) with breast cancer
- Received chest radiation therapy between agesof 10 and 30
- They should have a personal history of breast disorders, like atypical hyperplasia
What to Expect in Breast Cancer Screening
Before the Test:
Get your mammogram after your period if possible (breasts will be less tender). Skip deodorants or powders on the day of the test (can affect imaging). Wear two-piece clothing for convenience.
During the Mammogram:
It is placed between two plates and pressed for a few seconds for every breast. You may be pressured, but it is usually not painful. The entire procedure takes around 20 minutes.
After the Test:
You will receive your results within a few days. If detected, additional testing (biopsy, ultrasound) will be recommended. It doesn't always mean cancer.
Myths of Regular Breast Cancer Screening
Myth 1 Mammograms are only for older women.
Fact Women aged 40 and older should start speaking with their doctor about screening options.
Myth 2 Screenings guarantee you will never have breast cancer.
Fact Screening identifies cancer at an early stage but doesn't prevent it.
Myth 3 Mammograms is one of the causes of Breast Cancer by exposing women to radiation.
Fact The dose of radiation is very low and safe.
Myth 4 If there isn't any family history, I'm safe.
Fact The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.
The Role of Genetics in Breast Cancer Screening
If your family has a close history of ovarian or breast cancer, your doctor can recommend:
- Genetic counseling
- BRCA1/BRCA2 testing
- MRI, along with mammograms
Knowing your genetic risk assists in developing a tailored screening plan.
Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening
Even though screening is necessary, the majority of women shun it or delay it because:
- Fear of the outcome or result
- Cost concerns
- Lack of awareness
- Cultural stigma
Support, education, and community awareness can overcome these barriers. Reduced price mammograms if you feel/think there are any Breast Cancer Symptoms, offered by the majority of health departments and doctors, such as Dr. Rohan Khandelwal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually at 40–50 years, but earlier if you have risk factors.
Around 15–20 minutes altogether.
Not a substitute for screening, but assists in the early detection of changes.
Women do experience a little discomfort, but it is brief and tolerable.
Take Action Because Your Health Comes First
Regular breast cancer screening in India can quite literally be life-saving. Discuss the best screening schedule with your doctor, learn about your risk factors, and don't let fear or misinformation stop you. Set a reminder, book a screening, and remind everyone to do so. For breast cancer, early detection is the best defense.
Stay safe. Stay healthy. Get tested. Visit Dr. Rohan Khandelwal for good and healthy breasts!
