Screening Tests for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is among the top cancers that affect women worldwide. In India, it is the most prevalent cancer found in women. Breast cancer is no longer a rare illness. But in spite of its high prevalence, there is close to little awareness about it. Most cancers, including that of the breast, can be treated completely if it is detected at an early stage. And fortunately, there are several screening tests that can help in diagnosing breast cancer. These tests are readily available at CK Birla Hospital, the best breast cancer hospital in Gurgaon. 

Medical oncologists begin any assessment for breast cancer with screening tests. After drawing a detailed diagnosis of the patient’s condition, stage of cancer and more, they decide upon the right treatment plan. 

Let’s take a look at some of these screening tests for breast cancer. 

Why are screening tests done?

The objective of a breast cancer screening is to identify cancerous cells in the body before they disrupt the functioning. These tests are primarily done to diagnose the cancer in its initial stages. In its early stages, breast cancer can be almost cured.

Sometimes, these tests are indicated even while there are no or less symptoms present. In such cases, these tests are recommended if you have a high risk of developing breast cancer due to your medical history, family background or other health conditions. 

What are common breast cancer screenings tests?

There is a wide range of breast cancer screening tests. Before deciding your screening, your doctors will discuss the possible risks and benefits of each test with you. 

Breast cancer screening tests include:

Mammogram – A mammogram is the most common diagnostic test done to screen breast cancer. Simply put, a mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts. Through mammograms, doctors are able to identify cancer lumps or other abnormalities in the breast.

However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for mammograms. Several factors contribute to determining whether or not an X-ray of the breasts will be helpful. These factors include:

• Size of the tumor
• Patient’s age and weight 
• Density of the breasts

Breast MRI – A breast MRI is helpful in detecting small cancer tumors. It is a diagnostic procedure in which high frequency magnet and radio waves are used to produce detailed pictures of the breast. A breast MRI is a technologically advanced procedure available at CK Birla Hospital, the best breast cancer hospital in Gurgaon. 

Clinical breast exam – Your oncologists will examine your breasts and look out for any deformities. During a clinical breast exam, your healthcare provider will feel your breasts and your armpits. It is similar to a self-exam. 

Biopsy – A breast biopsy is an invasive procedure in which your medical doctor will analyse tissues of your breast for presence of cancerous cells. During a biopsy, your oncologist will remove a small area from the affected breast. He/she will, then, examine the tissues in that area under a microscope. It is a very conclusive test. 

A breast biopsy is highly useful as your doctor will be able to identify whether the cells are benign or cancerous. They can also see if the stage of cancer, the speed at which it is spreading and more. You can visit CK Birla Hospital, the best hospital in Gurgaon to have a breast biopsy performed under the supervision of highly-skilled experts.  

Are there any risks of breast cancer screening?

The above-given screening tests have certain complications. These include:

• Slight pain or discomfort
• Exposure to radiations 
• False positive test results

The team of oncologists and nursing staff at CK Birla Hospital, the best cancer hospital in Gurgaon, make sure that the possibility of these risks are eliminated to give the patient the best medical experience. 

To learn more about breast cancer, book an appointment with a renowned breast cancer specialist in Gurgaon at CK Birla Hospital, the best hospital in Gurgaon.  

References:

https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-screening-pdq#:~:text=an%20early%20stage.-,Mammography%20is%20the%20most%20common%20screening%20test%20for%20breast%20cancer,carcinoma%20in%20situ%20(DCIS).

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/screening.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352475

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