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July 11, 2024 06:38 PM IST
Physical literacy, regular checkups, and a healthy lifestyle can prevent recurrence of breast cancer.
Breast cancer develops when abnormal breast cells grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. When breast cancer is not detected for a long time, the cancer can spread throughout the body and be life-threatening. Some common symptoms of breast cancer are a lump on the breast, breast pain, armpit lumps, bleeding from the nipple, and a change in the shape or texture of the nipple. Depending on the stage of breast cancer, treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, breast cancer can often recur after treatment. Here’s why this happens.
Also Read: Hina Khan diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer: Know lifestyle tips to reduce risk
Why does breast cancer recur after treatment?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Tasneem Bharmal, Associate Consultant, Medical Oncology, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India, Mumbai, said, “Breast cancer can be ruthless, sometimes recurring even after successful treatment. This recurrence occurs because some mutated cancer cells survive initial treatments, remain hidden and resistant. Over time, these cells can undergo new mutations, become more potent and able to grow locally or in other parts of the body. Some cancer cells can enter a dormant state – rendering themselves inactive and undetectable for long periods. These dormant cells are not affected by treatments that target actively dividing cells.
Also read: Breast cancer may cause one million deaths every year by 2040! Is obesity a risk factor for breast cancer?
Tips to stay safe from breast cancer recurrence:
Regular follow-up with the oncologistIt is important to continue to have regular checkups even after the cancer has been treated. Taking a detailed history, clinical examination, and regular screenings such as mammograms are important.
Self-awareness and body literacy: Knowing what is normal for your body and recognizing any changes can help us seek medical help immediately. Paying attention to any new or unusual symptoms, no matter how much time has passed since treatment, helps in early detection.
healthy lifestyleMaintaining a healthy lifestyle by having a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can also help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
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