In the bustling streets of India, where life moves at its own pace, Gayatri’s story unfolded like many others, with a delayed diagnosis that would change the course of her life.
Like countless women across the nation, Gayatri paid little heed to her health until a noticeable lump in her breast demanded her attention. Ignoring the initial signs, she reasoned away the discomfort, chalking it up to the ordinary stresses of daily life. But as the lump persisted and grew in size, her unease deepened.
Finally acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Gayatri sought the counsel of her gynaecologist, hoping for clarity and reassurance. However, the initial ultrasound failed to uncover any cause for alarm, leaving Gayatri in a state of perplexity.
Days turned into weeks, and the relentless growth of the lump only intensified her discomfort. With each passing moment, uncertainty loomed larger, casting a shadow over her days. Determined to unravel the mystery behind her symptoms, Gayatri returned to her gynaecologist’s office, her resolve undeterred.
This time, her situation could not be dismissed. Sensing the urgency, the doctor recommended a battery of tests, leaving Gayatri’s grappling with a mix of apprehension and hope. She was diagnosed with cancer.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer occurs in women and rarely in men. Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast, a lump in the armpit, pain in the breast, bloody discharge from the nipple, and changes in the shape or texture of the nipple, breast, or skin over the breast.
How will women know about it?
✅ Women can do self-breast examinations (SBE). How is it being done?
A) In the Shower
Each month, using the pads or flats of your three middle fingers, gently press down on the entire breast and underarm area with varying degrees of pressure: light, medium, and firm. Perform this check on both breasts, feeling for any unusual lumps, thickened areas, hardened knots, or any other changes in the breast tissue.
B) In Front of a Mirror
Stand with your arms at your sides and visually examine your breasts for any alterations in their shape or contour, as well as any dimpling, swelling, or irregularities in the skin around them. Also, check for changes in the nipples. Then, place your palms on your hips and press firmly to contract your chest muscles. Observe for any dimpling, puckering, or other changes, especially on one side. Remember, it’s common for the left and right breasts to have slight differences in appearance.
C) Lying Down
While lying down, ensure breast tissue is evenly distributed along the chest wall. Position a pillow under your right shoulder and place your right arm behind your head. With your left hand, gently manoeuvre the pads of your three middle fingers across your right breast and armpit, covering the entire area. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to detect any new lumps, thickened areas, hardened knots, or other changes in the breast. Additionally, gently squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge. Repeat these steps for your left breast.
Many organizations, such as the Indian Cancer Society, local government hospitals, and local gynecologists, The Indian Cancer Society has many videos and materials to learn more about it.
The best way to help is to raise awareness about SBE and encourage them to visit doctors immediately if they notice anything different. Also, women, while visiting their doctor, can consult. Rural ladies need a lot of information and hand-holding as they visit a doctor at an advanced stage. It was very difficult for them.
What are the top 5 Cancer Hospital to go to for Breast Cancer treatment?
- Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital Mumbai
- Tata Cancer Hospital Kolkata
- Max Institute of Cancer Care, Lajpat Nagar Delhi
- VS Hospitals Chennai
- Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital & Research Institute
Early detection increases the chance of survival. Mangohomz is continuously spreading information about it; let’s do it together.
Mangohomz is extending its support to cancer warriors. We are offering patient-friendly stay bookings made at www.mangohomz.ai for those travelling for cancer treatment. This small effort is our way of standing in solidarity with individuals battling cancer, aiming to ease their journey both physically and financially.
Feel free to write to us at care@mangohomz.com