Breast Cancer Treatment in Delhi, India

Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour that may invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. It most often begins in the milk ducts or lobules and is classified based on the type of cell involved, its stage, growth rate, and whether it has spread beyond the breast.

Who is at Increased Risk of Breast Cancer?

• Gender – Primarily women, though men can also develop breast cancer.

• Age – The risk increases gradually with age, with a more significant rise often noted after the age of 50.

• Family History & Genetics – Mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genes raise the risk.

• Lifestyle Factors – Obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking, stress, poor work–life balance, late pregnancies, and childbirth increase susceptibility.

• Hormonal Factors – Early menstruation (estrogen-based), late menopause, and long-term hormone replacement therapy.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a complex disease that can arise in different parts of the breast and show varied growth patterns. Understanding the type of breast cancer is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment strategy. In medical terminology, breast cancer is also referred to as mammary carcinoma or breast malignancy. At the same time, specific types are identified as invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) or invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) to indicate the precise location and nature of the tumour.

1. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is an early, non-invasive form of breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts. While it is contained within the ducts, it is considered a form of mammary carcinoma and requires monitoring or treatment to prevent progression.

2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

IDC begins in the ducts but can spread to surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. Clinicians often refer to this type as IDC to specify the growth pattern and guide therapy decisions.

3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

ILC originates in the lobules, the milk-producing glands. It tends to grow more diffusely than IDC, which can sometimes make early detection challenging. In clinical practice, it is identified as ILC to indicate its site and behaviour.

4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This aggressive form of breast cancer causes rapid swelling, redness, and warmth in the breast. Like other forms, it is part of the broader category of breast malignancy, reflecting its ability to invade nearby tissues and metastasise.

5. Paget’s Disease of the Nipple

This uncommon cancer affects the skin of the nipple and is frequently linked with underlying breast tumours. Symptoms may include nipple discharge, itching, or crusting, necessitating thorough evaluation and targeted treatment.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can manifest in various ways, and recognising its early warning signs of breast cancer is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. While symptoms may vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, certain changes in the breast or surrounding areas often indicate the presence of a malignancy. Being aware of these signs helps in seeking medical evaluation promptly and can improve treatment outcomes.

• Lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
• Redness, dimpling, or thickening of breast skin
• Nipple discharge or nipple turning inward (retraction)
• Persistent breast pain

Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can be caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, such as:

• Genetic mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2, and others)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Environmental exposure to radiation or chemicals
• Lifestyle habits, including poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake

Diagnosis / Tests for Breast Cancer

Early detection is essential for effective management of breast cancer, as it significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Various diagnostic tests are employed to identify the presence of cancer, determine its type, and assess its extent.

• Clinical Breast Exam A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional helps detect lumps, thickening, or other abnormal changes in the breast or underarm area.
• Mammography This imaging test uses low-dose X-rays to detect tumours or abnormal tissue changes, often identifying cancer before symptoms appear.
• Breast Ultrasound Ultrasound helps distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, complementing mammography for more precise evaluation.
• MRI Scan Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides detailed images of the breast, often used in high-risk patients or to assess tumour size and spread.
• Biopsy A biopsy involves taking a tissue sample for laboratory analysis. Core needle biopsy is the preferred method due to its higher accuracy. In contrast, fine needle aspiration (FNA) is less commonly used because it may not reliably distinguish between invasive and non-invasive cancers.
• Genetic Testing Genetic tests, such as those for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, assess hereditary risk but are not used to directly diagnose cancer.

Treatment of Breast Cancer

At Venkateshwar Hospitals, treatment is designed to address the specific type, stage, and characteristics of each patient’s cancer. Multiple therapies are often combined to ensure the best possible outcomes.

1. Surgery

• Lumpectomy – Removes the tumour along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue.
• Mastectomy – Complete removal of the breast when required.
• Breast Reconstruction Surgery – Restores the breast’s shape and appearance after mastectomy.

2. Radiation Therapy

High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence, often following surgery.

3. Chemotherapy

Powerful drugs are administered orally or intravenously to kill or shrink cancer cells and may be used before surgery to reduce tumour size or after surgery to prevent recurrence.

4. Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy either lowers hormone levels in the body or blocks hormone receptors. For example, tamoxifen blocks estrogen receptors, while aromatase inhibitors reduce estrogen production, targeting hormone-sensitive cancers.

5. Targeted Therapy

These drugs specifically attack cancer cells with particular genetic mutations, such as HER2-positive tumours, sparing most normal cells.

6. Immunotherapy

Currently approved mainly for some cases of triple-negative breast cancer, immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to recognise and fight cancer cells more effectively.

Complications of Breast Cancer

Possible complications include:

• Recurrence of cancer after treatment
• Spread (metastasis) to organs such as lungs, liver, bones, or brain.
• Lymphedema – Mainly occurs after lymph node removal/dissection or radiation involving lymph nodes.
• Emotional and psychological stress requires support and counselling.

Prevention of Breast Cancer

While not all cases can be prevented, the risk can be reduced through awareness and proper education:

• Regular screening mammograms (routine breast self-exams are no longer universally recommended for average-risk women).
• Maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle
• Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking
• Preventive medications for high-risk women
• Genetic counselling for those with a family history

Why Choose Venkateshwar Hospitals for Breast Cancer Treatment in Delhi, India?

• Team of expert oncologists, breast surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons
• Advanced diagnostic tools like 3D mammography, PET-CT, and MRI
• Personalised treatment plans based on cancer stage and patient profile
• Multidisciplinary tumour board reviews for the best clinical decisions.
• Comprehensive support, including psychological counselling, dietary planning, and physiotherapy
• Modern infrastructure and patient-focused care in Delhi

Outlook for Breast Cancer Patients

With early detection and advanced treatments, breast cancer survival rates have significantly improved. Venkateshwar Hospitals emphasises timely screening and customised therapies to ensure better prognosis. Long-term survivorship programs and follow-up care help patients lead healthier lives after treatment.