Srinagar, Aug 20: Breast cancer can become life-threatening if it is not detected and treated at an early stage, as the disease may spread to other organs, including the bones, liver and lungs, doctors said, stressing the importance of awareness, regular screening and timely medical intervention.
Doctors said advanced breast cancer can lead to serious complications, significantly affect a patient’s quality of life and, in severe cases, prove fatal. Beyond the physical burden, the disease often places considerable emotional and financial pressure on patients and their families, particularly when treatment continues for a prolonged period.
“Once cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the complications become much more serious. Patients may experience considerable pain, disability and deterioration in their overall quality of life. The disease also takes an emotional and financial toll on families,” oncologist Dr Aijaz Shah said.
He said that while certain risk factors, including genetic predisposition, cannot be modified, several preventive measures and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
According to Dr Shah, women should remain alert about changes in their breasts and undergo appropriate screening as recommended.
“Self-breast examination, clinical breast examination and mammography after the age of 40 can play an important role in detecting breast cancer at an early stage,” he said, adding that early diagnosis substantially improves treatment outcomes.
He further advised women to maintain a healthy body weight, remain physically active, avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these measures can contribute towards lowering the risk.
An oncologist, Dr Zahoor Ahmad Mor, said breastfeeding has also been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, while a balanced diet can support overall health.
“A diet containing adequate fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while limiting highly processed foods, is beneficial for maintaining overall health,” he said.
Doctors urged women to seek medical advice if they notice any unusual changes in their breasts. Warning signs, they said, may include a new breast lump, unusual nipple discharge, changes in the size or shape of the breast, alterations in the skin, nipple changes or other persistent abnormalities.
Any unusual or persistent change should not be ignored, doctors said, adding that seeking medical advice at the earliest can make a significant difference because breast cancer is treatable, particularly when it is detected before it spreads.
Doctors said awareness should not be limited to Breast Cancer Awareness Month or particular campaigns, but should become part of routine healthcare practices among women.
They added that regular check-ups, timely screening, awareness of symptoms and adoption of a healthy lifestyle remain among the most effective measures for reducing the burden of breast cancer.
They appealed to women to overcome hesitation and fear surrounding breast-related symptoms and consult qualified healthcare professionals without delay.
Early detection, doctors stressed, remains one of the strongest weapons against breast cancer. Women should know their bodies, recognise warning signs and seek medical attention promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen, they said—(KNO)
