Hina Khan Diagnosed With Stage 3 Breast Cancer, Know 10 Early Signs That Are Often Ignored By Women

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Actress Hina Khan, known for her role in the TV show "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," has disclosed her diagnosis of stage three breast cancer on Instagram. She reassured her fans that she is undergoing treatment and doing well.

In a journal published in the American Cancer Society, data suggests that breast cancer is the most common cancer in India, accounting for 28.2% of all female cancers, with an estimated 216,108 cases by 2022. The age-standardized incidence rate of female breast cancer has increased by 39.1% from 1990 to 2016, and this trend has been seen in every state of India over the past 26 years.

Numerous reports point out that, poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, increased stress levels, and obesity contribute to the growing prevalence of breast cancer in younger women. Genetic predisposition, particularly mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, also heightens the risk. Further, weight management is vital for reducing risk since obesity raises the likelihood of breast cancer in premenopausal women.

Impact Of Work And Social Pressures

Work and social pressures can also influence breast cancer risk factors. Late marriage and delayed childbearing can affect breastfeeding practices and increase risk. Genetics account for less than 10% of cases; most occur due to non-genetic factors. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment; regular self-examinations and mammograms are advised.

A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and limited alcohol intake can help lower the risk. The incidence of breast cancer in younger women has been increasing due to lifestyle factors such as high-fat diets, sedentary behavior, and delayed childbirth. Younger women are often diagnosed with more aggressive forms that progress quickly and necessitate intensive treatment.

Let us know what breast cancer is and often overlooked early signs that should never be ignored.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment and improved survival rates. While some signs of breast cancer are well-known, such as a lump in the breast, there are subtler symptoms that can be easily overlooked or mistaken for less serious conditions.

These early signs are often hard to detect but can provide critical clues for early diagnosis. Understanding and recognizing these symptoms can empower individuals to seek medical attention promptly, potentially catching the disease at a more treatable stage. Check out the early signs of breast cancer.

1. Unusual Breast or Nipple Pain

Breast pain is a common complaint among women and is often associated with hormonal changes or menstrual cycles. However, persistent pain in the breast or nipple that does not correlate with the menstrual cycle or is localized to a specific area should not be ignored. While breast cancer is not typically associated with pain in its early stages, some types of breast cancer, such as inflammatory breast cancer, can cause tenderness or discomfort.

2. Changes In Breast Size or Shape

Subtle changes in the size or shape of one breast compared to the other can be an early sign of breast cancer. These changes may be difficult to notice without regular self-examinations. It's important to be familiar with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts to detect any asymmetry or unusual alterations. Look for any flattening, bulging, or swelling that could indicate the presence of a tumor.

3. Skin Changes On The Breast

Breast cancer can cause noticeable changes to the skin of the breast. These changes may include:

• Dimpling or Puckering: The skin on the breast may develop a texture resembling an orange peel, known as peau d'orange. This can occur due to the cancer pulling on the connective tissue within the breast.

• Redness or Warmth: Inflammatory breast cancer, a rare but aggressive form of the disease, can cause the breast to appear red, swollen, and feel warm to the touch. These symptoms can be easily mistaken for an infection.

• Rash or Itching: Persistent itching or the development of a rash on the breast, particularly around the nipple, can be a sign of Paget's disease of the breast, a rare type of cancer that affects the skin of the nipple and areola.

4. Nipple Discharge

Nipple discharge, especially if it is spontaneous, unilateral (from one breast only), and clear or bloody, can be an early indicator of breast cancer. While most nipple discharge is benign and caused by conditions such as infections or benign tumors, it is essential to have any abnormal discharge evaluated by a healthcare provider. Discharge that occurs without squeezing the nipple or is associated with a lump should be investigated further.

5. Changes in Nipple Appearance

Pay attention to any changes in the appearance of your nipples. Signs that may indicate breast cancer include:

• Inversion: A newly inverted nipple (one that has turned inward) can be a symptom of breast cancer.
• Scaling or Crusting: The skin of the nipple and areola may become scaly, crusty, or thickened. This could be a sign of Paget's disease of the breast.
• Ulceration: Sores or ulcers on the nipple that do not heal can also be a warning sign.

6. Swelling In The Armpit Or Collarbone

Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes before a tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt. Swelling or lumps in the armpit or around the collarbone may indicate that cancer cells have spread to these lymph nodes. This swelling can sometimes be detected before any changes in the breast itself are noticeable.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

While weight loss can be a sign of many health conditions, unexplained weight loss can also be associated with breast cancer. Cancer cells can alter metabolism and lead to a significant and unintentional loss of weight. If you experience sudden weight loss without changes in diet or exercise, it is important to seek medical evaluation.

8. Fatigue

Persistent and unexplained fatigue can be an early sign of many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Cancer-related fatigue is often described as feeling extremely tired despite adequate rest and can interfere with daily activities. If you experience ongoing fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, it's important to discuss it with your healthcare provider.

9. Breast Thickening

A feeling of thickening or fullness in one part of the breast that is different from the surrounding tissue can be an early sign of breast cancer. This thickening may not form a distinct lump but can be felt as a dense area within the breast tissue. Regular self-examinations can help identify these changes early.

10. Unexplained Back Pain

Persistent back pain, especially in the upper back or between the shoulder blades, can sometimes be an early sign of breast cancer. While back pain is commonly caused by musculoskeletal issues, it can also occur if a breast tumor presses against the nerves or spine. If back pain is not linked to physical activity or injury and persists over time, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

When it comes to breast cancer, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you notice any unusual changes or symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a medical professional for a thorough evaluation. Early detection can save lives.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.