Breast Cancer

Overview

Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. In some cases, these cancer cells may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Early detection and modern treatment approaches have significantly improved survival rates. When diagnosed at an early stage, breast cancer can often be treated successfully.

At Moolchand Hospital, patients receive comprehensive breast cancer care through a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists. As a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi and a trusted hospital in Lajpat Nagar Delhi, Moolchand provides advanced diagnostic facilities and personalized cancer treatment.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally and form a malignant tumor. The disease most commonly begins in the milk ducts or lobules of the breast.

The main types of breast cancer include:

• Ductal carcinoma – begins in the milk ducts
  
  

• Lobular carcinoma – begins in the milk-producing glands
  
  

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) – early non-invasive cancer
  
  

• Invasive breast cancer – cancer that spreads beyond the ducts or lobules
  
  

Early detection is crucial because treatment is more effective when cancer is identified at an early stage.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Symptoms may vary depending on the stage and type of cancer.

Common warning signs include:

• A new lump in the breast or underarm
  
  

• Change in breast size or shape
  
  

• Skin dimpling or thickening
  
  

• Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin
  
  

• Nipple discharge (sometimes bloody)
  
  

• Inverted nipple
  
  

• Persistent breast pain in some cases
  
  

Not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any new breast change should be evaluated by a doctor.

Causes

The exact cause of breast cancer is not always known. It occurs due to genetic mutations that cause abnormal cell growth in breast tissue.

Several factors may contribute to these mutations, including hormonal, environmental, and genetic influences.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the risk of breast cancer:

• Increasing age
  
  

• Family history of breast cancer
  
  

• Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
  
  

• Early menstruation or late menopause
  
  

• Hormone replacement therapy
  
  

• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
  
  

• Alcohol consumption
  
  

However, many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis requires careful evaluation using modern imaging and laboratory tests.

Diagnostic methods may include:

• Clinical breast examination
  
  

• Mammography
  
  

• Breast ultrasound
  
  

• Breast MRI in selected cases
  
  

• Core needle biopsy or FNAC
  
  

• Genetic testing in high-risk patients
  
  

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced imaging and pathology services support early detection and accurate diagnosis.

Staging of Breast Cancer

Once diagnosed, doctors determine the stage of cancer to guide treatment. Staging depends on:

• Tumor size
  
  

• Involvement of lymph nodes
  
  

• Spread to other organs
  
  

Stages generally range from Stage 0 to Stage IV.

Treatment Options

Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type, stage, and patient’s overall health.

Surgery

Surgical options may include:

• Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy)
  
  

• Mastectomy (removal of the entire breast)
  
  

• Sentinel lymph node biopsy or lymph node removal
  
  

Radiation Therapy

Radiation may be used after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Anti-cancer drugs may be given before or after surgery to eliminate cancer cells.

Hormone Therapy

Used for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers.

Targeted Therapy

Modern treatments target specific cancer cell pathways.

At Moolchand Hospital, treatment plans are individualized to provide the best possible outcomes.

Prevention and Early Detection

While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, early detection greatly improves survival.

Important measures include:

• Regular breast self-examination
  
  

• Clinical breast examinations
  
  

• Routine mammography screening
  
  

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
  
  

• Awareness of family history
  
  

Women should consult a doctor if they notice any unusual breast changes.

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital?

Patients choose Moolchand Hospital for breast cancer care because of:

• Experienced oncologists and breast surgeons
  
  

• Advanced imaging and diagnostic services
  
  

• Comprehensive cancer treatment programs
  
  

• Multidisciplinary tumor board approach
  
  

• Modern surgical and oncology facilities
  
  

• Convenient access for patients seeking a hospital near Lajpat Nagar or hospitals in Lajpat Nagar