Female | 55

Should I Start Chemotherapy or Oncotype DX Test?

Q: Are there any options for financial assistance for breast cancer treatment in India?

There are a number of organizations in India that provide financial assistance for individuals who are unable to afford the cost of breast cancer treatment. These organizations may offer grants, loans, or other forms of financial assistance to help cover the cost of treatment. Some hospitals and clinics may also have financial assistance programs available for patients who are in need.

Q: Can breast cancer treatment be done at a lower cost in India?

In some cases, it may be possible to receive breast cancer treatment at a lower cost in India by seeking treatment at a government-run hospital or clinic, or by opting for a less expensive treatment option. However, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of treatment should not be the only factor to consider when deciding on a treatment plan. It's important to work with a medical team to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.

Q: Is breast cancer treatment covered by insurance in India?

Many health insurance policies in India cover the cost of breast cancer treatment, although the specific coverage can vary depending on the policy. It's a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered and what is not.

Q: What are the various treatment options available for breast cancer in India?

The various treatments given by a breast cancer doctor are: 1. Surgery The type of breast cancer surgery totally depends on the cancer stage and the type of cancer: Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumour along with a small, cancer-free margin of healthy tissue around the tumour. Mastectomy: Surgical removal of the entire breast. A few surgeries are conducted to check if any of the lymph nodes near the breast contain cancer: Sentinel lymph node biopsy: This type of surgery removes 1-3 lymph nodes from under the arm to see if the nodes are free of cancer Axillary lymph node dissection: If cancer is detected in the lymph nodes, this type of surgery is done to remove many lymph nodes from under the arm. This is done to prevent the spread of cancer. Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: This type of breast cancer surgery involves the removal of both the breast to minimise the risk of developing breast cancer in the future. 2. Radiation Therapy Powerful radiation beams are used to destroy cancer cells. 3. Hormonal Therapy If the cancer is hormone-receptor-positive, i.e., has both estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors, then hormonal therapy is used by a breast cancer doctor to block the production of these hormones. 4. Chemotherapy Use of medications to destroy cancerous cells or shrink their size before surgery.

Q: How often should you perform a breast self-examination (BSE)?

1. If you're still on your period, the optimum time to perform BSE is: When your breasts aren't as painful or swollen. It is usually 5 to 10 days after your cycle starts. 2. If you don't have your period anymore, set a reminder for yourself. Check your breasts on the first of every month. 3. A breast self-exam is also recommended for all males at high risk for breast cancer. Every month, perform a breast self-examination. Other symptoms that indicate you should see a doctor about breast cancer include: Thickening, a lump, or a tight knot Clotting, heat, dryness, as well as spots on the skin Size or shape of breast changes Itchiness, scaly sore or rash on the nipple, dimpling or puckering of the skin Pulling of your nipple or any other body parts Nipple discharge that appears from nowhere

Q: What is the procedure for getting a breast cancer screening?

The different procedures of getting a breast cancer screening are: Clinical breast exam: Here, breasts are physically examined by a doctor who uses his hand to feel lumps or any other changes in the breasts. Mammography: An X-ray of the breasts which is considered the best technique to detect cancer at an early stage. It can even show the lumps or other changes before a patient or doctor can feel them. There are three types of mammography: Film Mammography: The technique results in an X-ray picture of the breast Digital Mammography: The technique results in a computer based picture of the breast Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT): The technique results in pictures of breasts from many different angles to finally make 3-D pictures of the breasts. Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This technique uses radio waves to take pictures of the breasts. It is mostly used for women who are at high risk for breast cancer; either due to family history of the disease or other underlying conditions. Breast Ultrasound: This is used for pregnant women who cannot be exposed to X-rays used in mammography or who are unable to undergo an MRI examination. This technique is also for those with dense breast tissue (less fat and lots of ducts, glands and tissues), which makes it harder to detect cancers with traditional mammography.

Q: How does a breast cancer doctor detect or diagnose breast cancer in India?

Breast cancer is diagnosed using a variety of tests and procedures, which include the following: Breast exam : Your doctor will examine both of your breasts as well as the lymph nodes in your armpit to see whether everything is normal or if anything is wrong. Mammography - An Xray of the breast is called a mammography. They are frequently used to detect breast cancer. If something abnormal is discovered during a screening mammography, your doctor will recommend additional treatment options. Ultrasound- It is a technique that uses sound waves to create pictures of structures deep within the body. A new breast lump can be diagnosed as a solid mass or a fluid-filled cyst using ultrasound. Taking a sample of breast cells for testing (biopsy)- A biopsy is the only means to confirm a breast cancer diagnosis. During a biopsy, your doctor extracts a core of tissue from the questionable location using a specialized needle instrument guided by an X-ray or another imaging test. A tiny metal marker is frequently left at the spot within your breast so that subsequent imaging tests may easily identify the region. Biopsy samples are submitted to a facility for testing, and specialists evaluate if the cells are malignant. It's also examined to see what kind of cells are involved in the breast cancer, how advanced it is, and whether the cancer cells contain hormone receptors or other receptors that might be harmful. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI scanner that creates images of the inside of your breast using a strong magnetic fields and radio waves . A dye injection is given before to a breast MRI. An MRI does not employ radiation to produce pictures, unlike other forms of imaging procedures.

Q: How long does it take to recover from breast cancer treatment ?

Various factors determine the recovery time of breast cancer. The treatment depends on the early stage or advanced stage of breast cancer. Your doctor will only be able to tell you an assessment based on how far your cancer has gone through the breast tissue and its stage. However, the process through it goes as follows: Surgical - It will take a few days or a week to recover from a less complicated surgery. But if the individual had a major operation, it would take around a few weeks based on your operation. Medical - Medical treatments include drugs and pills or medicines given in your veins, such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. After surgery, the doctor will recommend you the treatment based on your stage and condition. The recovery time after this procedure varies for every patient. Yet it takes three months at least to get recovered from one session. Radiation - Depending on the patient's condition doctor may recommend radiation therapy. Skin reactions from radiation therapy are dominant for 1-2 weeks after your therapy. To recover it would take a few weeks to 2 months, depending patient's condition.

Hello, my sister discovered she had a breast cancer in March 24, she had a successful lumpectomy in March 28, the pathology report said that tumor was 22 x 23 x 18 mm, has 5 involved lymph nodes, ER strong positive ( score 8 ), PR negative, HER2 negative... after that she did a pet/CT scan in May and the opinion of the radiologist written in the report was " patient with right breast cancer after surgery showing no evidence of hypermetabolic lesion distinctive for loco-regional resudal/recurrence of metastatic disease. I also attached the detailed results of the pet/ct itself. Now does it recommend for her to start chemotherapy or to do oncotype dx test first and btw she had 25 sessions of radiotherapy, so after the surgery ( in March) we had the radiotherapy in ( June) and now we don't know we have to start chemotherapy or do this test first since she has ER positive, HER2 negative and she's postmenopausal. She is 55 yrs old. Now I now your opinion, your advice and recommendations for us. And if she did the test and the result is law and chemotherapy is still recommended for her can she take at least a less intensive chemotherapy regimen.

Breast Cancer

1 Answer

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

Oncologist

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Answered on 9th Sept '24

From the information that you were able to share, it sounds like your sister had the necessary treatment done successfully for her breast cancer. Given that she is ERpositive and HER2 negative, the Oncotype DX test can be used to determine whether she requires chemotherapy. If the test indicates low risk, she might not have to undergo intensive chemotherapy. This check is based on the study of the genes present in cancer cells and helps to determine treatment methods. It is important to talk about these options with her oncologist so that the best solution can be found for her case.

3 people found this helpful

Questions & Answers on "Breast Cancer" (58)

What should I do if my triple-negative breast cancer is not responding to chemo?

Female | 42

Consult with your oncologist if you can try immunotherapy or radiation therapy.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

Patient is having pain in left brest also feel something is moving inside

Female | 31

If you are experiencing pain in your left breast and feel something moving inside, it is important to consult a doctor. These symptoms may be due to various reasons, and it is best to visit a breast specialist or a general surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can guide you with the appropriate care and tests needed.

Answered on 19th July '24

Dr. Babita Goel

I am 32 years old. I have a 2-year-old daughter. My mother has breast cancer and is undergoing treatment. I noticed a mass in my breast 3 weeks ago. There are no signs of cancer. It is fixed, does not move. And I do not feel pain the size of a lentil. I was last evaluated in the Bırads 3 category 7 years ago. I have not been examined since. Are fibrocysts or fibroadenomas mobile cysts or masses?

Dişi | 32

Fibrocysts and fibroadenomas are typically non-cancerous. Usually, fibrocysts are bigger and can shift, like a grape, and they are associated with hormonal changes. Usually solid, can be movable, are fibroadenomas which are common in younger women. The outward signs may manifest as a lump in the breast. For sure, it is advisable to go to an oncologist.

Answered on 30th Aug '24

Dr. Donald Babu

I am 29 year female and having pain I'm my right breast not on the whole breast only one side and when I press pain is more .

Female | Lima Bailung

Unilateral breast pain or the heavier side of the breast, when you press in this particular, can be caused by mastitis. Mastitis describes a situation where a milk duct becomes blocked or infected. Further symptoms may involve feeling hot, red, or swollen in the same area. It's crucial to see a healthcare provider who can make the correct diagnosis and treatment. They might give you antibiotics, or do compressions to reduce the pain and swelling with the last alternative. Self-care measures can be an adjunct to medical treatment, thus it should be a priority to seek guidance from a professional in healthcare.

Answered on 3rd Dec '24

Dr. Babita Goel

I am a girl and my age is 22. I have pain in my left nipple.

Female | 22

A throbbing or stabbing sensation in the chest can be triggered at the age of 22 by a variety of issues, such as hormonal transformations, trauma, disease, or particular drugs. Hormonal shifts around the menstrual cycle can cause one or both nipples to hurt. If you are experiencing pain along with other symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge, see a healthcare professional immediately.

Answered on 4th June '24

Dr. Nisarg Patel

Hello, my sister discovered she had a breast cancer in March 24, she had a successful lumpectomy in March 28, the pathology report said that tumor was 22 x 23 x 18 mm, has 5 involved lymph nodes, ER strong positive ( score 8 ), PR negative, HER2 negative... after that she did a pet/CT scan in May and the opinion of the radiologist written in the report was " patient with right breast cancer after surgery showing no evidence of hypermetabolic lesion distinctive for loco-regional resudal/recurrence of metastatic disease. I also attached the detailed results of the pet/ct itself. Now does it recommend for her to start chemotherapy or to do oncotype dx test first and btw she had 25 sessions of radiotherapy, so after the surgery ( in March) we had the radiotherapy in ( June) and now we don't know we have to start chemotherapy or do this test first since she has ER positive, HER2 negative and she's postmenopausal. She is 55 yrs old. Now I now your opinion, your advice and recommendations for us. And if she did the test and the result is law and chemotherapy is still recommended for her can she take at least a less intensive chemotherapy regimen.

Female | 55

From the information that you were able to share, it sounds like your sister had the necessary treatment done successfully for her breast cancer. Given that she is ERpositive and HER2 negative, the Oncotype DX test can be used to determine whether she requires chemotherapy. If the test indicates low risk, she might not have to undergo intensive chemotherapy. This check is based on the study of the genes present in cancer cells and helps to determine treatment methods. It is important to talk about these options with her oncologist so that the best solution can be found for her case.

Answered on 9th Sept '24

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

I have breast cancer, but there are no mutations in the genetic test in 70 genes, what could cause cancer?

Female | 28

Breast cancer can have various causes, and not all cases are linked to genetic mutations. Factors like age, family history, hormones, reproductive history, etc. can also contribute to breast cancer risk. It's a complex disease and personalized treatment plans are required. Consult with an oncologist for accurate guidance.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Nisarg Patel

I want to know about Triple-negative breast cancer as our doctor hinted that my aunt has signs of this specific type of breast cancer.

Female | 57

The term triple-negative breast cancer means that the cancer cells do not have estrogen or progesterone receptors and does not make too much of the protein called HER2. ( therefore the cells test "negative" on all 3 tests.)

Triple-negative breast cancer has less treatment options available than other types of invasive breast cancer. The reason being the cancer cells do not have enough estrogen or progesterone receptors or HER2 protein for hormone therapy or targeted drugs to work.

Treatment options are chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery mainly. But consulting clinician on time and starting the treatment is important. Regular follow up with doctor with lifestyle modifications and counselling will help. Consult an oncologist.

Hope our answer helps you.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Babita Goel

As per sonography report is sates -. Both breast shows---- E/o Small coarse cakcification noted in left breast upper outer quadrant of size approx.. 2.6 mm...?due to old infective etiology or chronic inflammatory So we did mammogram as per report Findings: Both breasts consist of mixed scatured fitroglandular and fatty tissue. (ACR type II) No obvious focal spiculated mass lesion, retraction of tissues or cluster of microcalcifications is seen in either breast to suggest the presence of malignancy. No axillary lymph nodes are noted. Sonomamography screening: Both breast consist of mixed fibroglandular and fatty tissue. No SOL is noted. No duct ecatia is noted. IMPRESSION: No significant abnormality in both breasts. (BIRADS 1). Suggest-Follow up after 1 year for routine check up. Is there any case of worry

Female | 52

According to the tests, there’s no evidence of any major problem such as cancer in either breast, which is fantastic news. The tiny calcification found in the left breast could have resulted from an old infection or inflammation. Currently, there’s no cause for alarm but it’s essential to have another checkup next year to be safe. In case you observe any unusual changes in your breasts before then, please let your doctor know.

Answered on 20th July '24

Dr. Donald Babu

I have something thick in my breast for 2 weeks and have been taking relief tablets what can I do now?

Male | 14

During two weeks, you've noticed a lump in your breast and taken medicine. This needs examination by an oncologist. Lumps may happen due to hormones, cysts, or severe problems. I suggest scheduling an appointment soon to get checked properly and learn the next steps.

Answered on 6th Aug '24

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

I had 2 lumps ( fiberdenoma ) on my left breast and it's easily movable ...and I found the lump on November 2023 now also it has not gone ...now I was feeling a lump on my right breast also ...and it also easily movable...not having any health issues anything like that

Female | 22

Fibroadenomas are the predominant cause of these lumps. They are caused by hormonal changes and they are not cancer. They can be discovered on their own due to fluctuating hormones when a woman's period cycles. They are painless, moveable, and without any problem. To be perfectly sure, one should go to the hospital and get it examined thoroughly. Even if it is frequent the hospital may demand additional tests. Keep in mind not to freak out but you'll require a professional check for any changes in your breasts that are unaccountable by logic.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Sridhar Susheela

I have a breast lump in my left Brea. Its been 20 days.There is no discharge from the breast. I had a miscarriage 4months ago. At that time i had milky discharge. The lump is brown in colour. And have little pain.Could this be a sign of breast cancer ?

Female | 31

A brown lump with no effusion could be a benign condition and not breast cancer. After miscarriage and milky discharge in the past, it is a possibility as well. Pain is one of the symptoms of hormonal variations. Nevertheless, one must visit a gynecologist for a thorough examination.

Answered on 28th Oct '24

Dr. Donald Babu

Hi, I have stage 2 Breast cancer. Which is the best hospital for treatment? Please suggest a name of doctor also.

Female | 34

You can visit your nearest Surgica Oncologist. If you are in Mumbai you can connect with me. Dr Akash Dhuru (Surgical Oncologist)

Answered on 19th June '24

Dr. Akash Dhuru.

Please tell me how Mastectomy works. Are breasts conserved in this treatment or are they removed in this procedure?

Mastectomy is removal of breast. But further details are needed which are not mentioned by you, to answer your concern. Still consult general surgeons who will examine and evaluate you and then guide you regarding the procedure. Hope our answer helps you.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Babita Goel

I feel hard in my right side breast and pain in my breasts..

Female | 18

You are feeling some tightness and soreness in your right side breast. The symptoms could be due to issues like hormonal changes, trauma, or an infection. Wearing a well-fitted bra, applying warm compresses, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the discomfort. Get a professional evaluation and treatment from an oncologist.

Answered on 26th Aug '24

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

FNAC report- Site- Left breast lump Aspirate- Milky fluid Microscopical examination- Smears are hypocellular showing few aggregates of epithelial cells with vacuolated cytoplasm in a lipid rich foamy background. Bare isolated nuclei are also present in the background along with foamy macrophages. The nuclei of the cells have uniform chromatin, regular nuclear margins with abundant cytoplasm. Impression- Galactocele of left breast Note- Kindly correlate clinically

Female | 27

It looks like the problem is the galactocele located in your left breast. This is a lump that occurs naturally when the breast milk forms a lump. It can be after childbirth or while nursing and is not harmful. The symptoms are a painless lump and milky fluid when squeezed. Usually, treatment isn't needed, but if big, it can be removed. Keep an eye on it and let an oncologist know.

Answered on 18th Sept '24

Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

I am 18 years old female and I've been feeling a lump in my right breast for as long as I can remember and it's not paining, I am afraid if I've breast cancer what should I do?

Female | 18

You are nervous because of a swelling in the right breast. It is encouraging that you are so keen on your body. Not all breast lumps mean cancer. Some lumps might be hormone-related or cysts. Cancer may cause the growth of rather stiff and painless lumps. If your lump has been there for a long time and doesn't hurt, you should let an oncologist check it.

Answered on 7th Oct '24

Dr. Donald Babu

Bone scan results-does INDICATION: C50.212 C77.3 Malignant neoplasm of upper-inner quadrant of left female breast/Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm mean actual diagnosis?

Female | 44

The bone scan revealed cancer in the left breast that has spread to other areas. This can cause bone pain, weakness, and fractures. It's important to consult an oncologist, who can recommend treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery to manage the cancer and its symptoms.

Answered on 26th Sept '24

Dr. Donald Babu

I'm 29 year female and having pain in my right breast and not whole breast only one side and when I press the pain is more bt there is no any lump or any thing since 4 days pain continue

Female | Lima Bailung

It seems like you are experiencing pain in your right breast. Pain in one breast without any lumps can be caused by things such as hormonal changes, injury, or muscle strain. The absence of lumps here makes it a less serious issue. You can take pain relievers like acetaminophen. If the pain continues or worsens, it is best to consult an oncologist for a more thorough checkup.

Answered on 30th Nov '24

Dr. Babita Goel

can breast cancer develop in 6 months

Female | 25

Yes, it's possible for breast cancer to show up quite quickly, in as little as 6 months. Being alert to any changes and consulting your doctor if something seems unusual is critical for early detection and treatment.

Answered on 23rd May '24

Dr. Donald Babu

Should I Start Chemotherapy or Oncotype DX Test?

Questions & Answers on "Breast Cancer" (58)

What should I do if my triple-negative breast cancer is not responding to chemo?

Patient is having pain in left brest also feel something is moving inside

I am 29 year female and having pain I'm my right breast not on the whole breast only one side and when I press pain is more .

I am a girl and my age is 22. I have pain in my left nipple.

I have breast cancer, but there are no mutations in the genetic test in 70 genes, what could cause cancer?

I want to know about Triple-negative breast cancer as our doctor hinted that my aunt has signs of this specific type of breast cancer.

I have something thick in my breast for 2 weeks and have been taking relief tablets what can I do now?

I had 2 lumps ( fiberdenoma ) on my left breast and it's easily movable ...and I found the lump on November 2023 now also it has not gone ...now I was feeling a lump on my right breast also ...and it also easily movable...not having any health issues anything like that

I have a breast lump in my left Brea. Its been 20 days.There is no discharge from the breast. I had a miscarriage 4months ago. At that time i had milky discharge. The lump is brown in colour. And have little pain.Could this be a sign of breast cancer ?

Hi, I have stage 2 Breast cancer. Which is the best hospital for treatment? Please suggest a name of doctor also.

Please tell me how Mastectomy works. Are breasts conserved in this treatment or are they removed in this procedure?

I feel hard in my right side breast and pain in my breasts..

I am 18 years old female and I've been feeling a lump in my right breast for as long as I can remember and it's not paining, I am afraid if I've breast cancer what should I do?

Bone scan results-does INDICATION: C50.212 C77.3 Malignant neoplasm of upper-inner quadrant of left female breast/Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm mean actual diagnosis?

I'm 29 year female and having pain in my right breast and not whole breast only one side and when I press the pain is more bt there is no any lump or any thing since 4 days pain continue

can breast cancer develop in 6 months

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any options for financial assistance for breast cancer treatment in India?

Can breast cancer treatment be done at a lower cost in India?

Is breast cancer treatment covered by insurance in India?

What are the various treatment options available for breast cancer in India?

How often should you perform a breast self-examination (BSE)?

What is the procedure for getting a breast cancer screening?

How does a breast cancer doctor detect or diagnose breast cancer in India?

How long does it take to recover from breast cancer treatment ?

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