Breast Cancer
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer often begins quietly with the rapid and unchecked multiplication of cells within the breast's milk ducts or lobules. Regular self-exams, screenings, and early detection improve outcomes. Breast cancer can also be defined as, a disease where cells inside the breast grow out of control and begin to form a tumor or mass. Most often, it arises from the lining of the milk ducts known as ductal carcinoma or from the glands that produce milk, called lobular carcinoma. Though it affects women predominantly, men can also get breast cancer, though it is rare.
Breast Cancer Types
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
•Starts in the milk ducts (most common type)
•Can spread to surrounding tissues
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
•Begins in the milk-producing lobules
•May be harder to detect on imaging
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
•Non-invasive, early-stage cancer confined to ducts
•Nearly 100% treatable when caught early
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
•Not true cancer ^type^https://everhope.care/cancer-types but a risk marker
•Indicates higher likelihood of
•developing invasive cancer
HR+/HER2
•Hormone receptor-positive (estrogen/progesterone)
•HER2-negative Most common subtype
Triple-Negative (HR-/HER2-)
•Lacks all three receptors (ER, PR, HER2)
•More aggressive but responds to immunotherapy
HR+/HER2+
•Hormone receptor-positive
•HER2-positive (protein overexpression)
HR-/HER2+
•Hormone receptor-negative
•HER2-positive
Inflammatory Breast Cancer
•Rare, aggressive form causing skin redness/swelling
Paget’s Disease of the Nipple
•Affects nipple skin (often with underlying DCIS/IDC)
Breast Cancer Symptoms
- •
A firm mass in the breast or underarm area. the most common and most noticed breast cancer symptom.
- •
May feel fixed or change in size over time
- •
Sudden inversion (pulling inward)
- •
Discharge (may be clear, bloody, or milky)
- •
Pain or tenderness
- •
Unexplained swelling or shrinkage of one breast
- •
Visible asymmetry between breasts
- •
Dimpling (like an orange peel)
- •
Puckering or scaly patches
- •
Redness or warmth (may resemble infection)
- •
Unexplained weight loss
- •
Persistent fatigue
- •
Bone pain (if spread occurs)
What’s Notable
Early-stage breast cancer patients may have no symptoms — which is why screenings matter.
Inflammatory breast cancer (a rare type) often causes redness/swelling without a distinct lump.
Women's breast cancer is still noticed and addressed, but men experience similar symptoms but often delay care due to lower awareness.
When to Seek Help
If any symptom persists for 2+ weeks, consult an expert cancer ^doctor^https://everhope.care/doctors-clinics — even if your mammogram was recently clear. Some changes develop between screenings.
Breast Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Gender
Higher in women
Age
Higher risk at after 55
Genetics
BRCA1/2 mutations, family history
Exposure
Radiation (<30), HRT, DES
Reproductive
Early periods (<12), late menopause (>55), late/no pregnancy
Lifestyle
Obesity (post-menopause), alcohol, smoking, inactivity, poor diet
Medical Factors
Dense breasts, past benign breast conditions
Other
Oral contraceptives (slight risk increase)
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Check-Up
Step 1: Initial Check-Up
(If you notice symptoms like a lump or changes)
What happens: Your doctor will:
- Examine your breasts and underarms for lumps and abnormalities.
- Observe skin or nipple changes.
- Ask about family history and your health.
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Imaging Tests
Step 2: Imaging Tests Mammogram: Quick breast X-ray Ultrasound: Sound wave imaging MRI: Detailed scan (high-risk cases) PET/CT: Checks for spread (advanced cases)
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test) (The only way to confirm cancer)
Types
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): Thin needle to collect cells
- Core Needle Biopsy: Larger needle to collect a tissue sample
- Surgical Biopsy: Lump removal for testing
Your role: Your comfort matters. Discuss pain relief options, take breaks
Pathology and Lab Results
Step 4: Pathology and Lab Results (Takes a few days to a week)
What’s checked:
- Cancer type (ductal/lobular)
- ER/PR/HER2 status
- BRCA genetic testing
Your role: Bring a loved one to discuss results
Staging Tests
Step 5: Staging Tests (To plan the best treatment)
TNM Staging System
- T (Tumor size): Tumor size and extent
- N (Lymph node involvement): Checks lymph nodes spread
- M (Metastasis): Determines spreads to other organs
Additional Tests Depending on the Cancer Type
- Bone scans
- Liver function tests
- Chest X-rays
Step 1: Initial Check-Up
(If you notice symptoms like a lump or changes)
What happens: Your doctor will:
- Examine your breasts and underarms for lumps and abnormalities.
- Observe skin or nipple changes.
- Ask about family history and your health.
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Step 2
Imaging Tests
Step 3
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 4
Pathology and Lab Results
Step 5
Staging Tests
Breast Cancer Treatment & Therapy
Lumpectomy
Description:
Tumor + margin removed; breast is conserved, the initial most ^treatment^https://everhope.care/breast-cancer-treatment options which is always opted for.
Used For:
Early-stage (I-II), small tumors
Recovery:
1-2 weeks; +radiation
Mastectomy
Description:
Full breast removal
Used For:
Large/multifocal tumors
Recovery:
4-6 weeks; reconstruction options
Lymph Node Removal
Description:
Sentinel biopsy or axillary dissection
Used For:
Check spread to lymph nodes
Recovery:
1-2 weeks
External Beam Radiation
Method :
Daily sessions (5 days/week, 3-6 weeks)
Duration:
15-30 treatments
Side Effects :
Fatigue, skin redness, breast swelling
Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy)
Method:
Radioactive seeds implanted near tumor
Duration:
1-5 days
Side Effects :
Short-term tenderness, skin changes
Chemotherapy
Targets:
Fast-growing cells. it is also known as the most common therapy for breast cancer.
Treatment Includes :
Neoadjuvant/Adjuvant
Side Effects :
Hair loss, nausea
Hormone Therapy
Target:
ER/PR+ cancers
Treatment Includes:
Tamoxifen, Letrozole
Side Effects:
Hot flashes, fatigue, joint and muscle pain
Targeted Therapy
Target:
HER2+ cancers
Treatment Includes:
Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab
Side Effects :
Nausea, headaches, breath shortness, bowel irregularities
Immunotherapy
Target:
TNBC (PD-L1+)
Treatment Includes:
Pembrolizumab, Atezolizumab
Side Effects :
Fever, weakness
Bone Metastasis
Purpose :
Prevent fractures, bone loss
Procedures:
Bisphosphonates and Denosumab
Palliative Care
Purpose:
Manage symptoms
Procedures:
Manage symptoms, side effects, stress through treatment and emotional, spiritual support
0
Survival :
99%
Treatment Approach :
Surgery ± radiation
Type:
DCIS, LCIS
I-II
Survival :
90%+
Treatment Approach :
Surgery + chemo/radiation
Type :
Early-Stage Cancer
III
Survival:
60-80%
Treatment Approach :
Aggressive combo therapy
Type:
Locally Advanced Cancer
IV
Sruvival:
~29%
Treatment Approach:
Lifelong systemic therapy
Type:
Metastatic Cancer
Lifestyle
For Whom?:
All women
Actions:
Healthy weight, exercise, limit alcohol
High-Risk Screening
For Whom? :
BRCA+ or family history
Actions:
Annual MRI + mammogram, genetic counseling
For Whom?
For Whom?:
High-risk postmenopausal ER/PR+ cancers (post-treatment) HER2+ cancers (post treatment)
Actions:
Aromatase inhibitors Hormone therapy (to reduce recurrence risk) Targeted therapy (to reduce recurrence risk)
Surgery
For Whom?:
BRCA+ carriers
Actions:
Prophylactic mastectomy
Breast Cancer Stages
- •Staging in breast cancer classifies the extent and spread of the tumor from stage 0 to stage 4, ranging from non-invasive to metastatic cancer.
- •Each stage considers tumor size, location, and lymph node involvement, which guides treatment choices and prognosis.
•Also called carcinoma in situ, this stage is non-invasive.
•Abnormal cells are confined inside the milk ducts and have not spread to surrounding breast tissue.
•Includes ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
•Accounts for about 20% of new breast cancer diagnoses.
•Highly treatable but may progress to invasive cancer if untreated.
•Early invasive breast cancer with a small tumor, typically up to 2 cm.
•May or may not have spread to some nearby lymph nodes.
•Cancer is localized with a good prognosis.
•Treatment focuses on tumor removal and sometimes lymph nodes.
•Tumor is larger than Stage 1 or has spread to a few nearby lymph nodes (e.g., in the armpit).
•Cancer is mostly localized to the breast and regional lymph nodes.
•Requires more extensive treatment due to larger tumor size or nodal involvement.
•Tumor is larger than Stage 2 or cancer has spread to multiple lymph nodes or nearby tissues like skin or chest wall.
•Known as locally advanced breast cancer, may include inflammatory breast cancer.
•Indicates more aggressive disease.
•Treatment typically involves combined therapies: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
•Cancer has spread beyond breast and regional lymph nodes to distant organs such as bones, lungs, or liver.
•Advanced stage is generally not curable.
•Managed with systemic therapies to control symptoms and prolong survival.
Management & Prevention
Side Effects
•Fatigue, pain, or menopausal symptoms can linger. For breast cancer care, talk to your doctor; options like physical therapy or meds can help.
Movement & Food
•Gentle activity (like yoga or walking) boosts energy. Eat nourishing, balanced meals to support recovery.
Follow-Up Care
•Regular scans and tests at breast cancer clinics or breast cancer centres can keep you on track and catch any changes early.
Fear of Recurrence
•Very common. Support groups, mindfulness, or therapy can ease anxiety.
Body Image
•Scars, surgery, and hair loss may impact confidence. Explore reconstruction, prosthetics, or tattoos — or embrace your new body as it is.
Post-Treatment Blues
•Feeling lost afterward is normal. Reach out for mental health support if needed.
Relationships
•Be open with loved ones. Let them know how to support you.
Work & Money
•Return at your pace. Ask about flexible work or financial aid if needed.
New Purpose
•Some survivors find meaning in advocacy or helping others — but there’s no pressure.
Breast Cancer Types
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
•Starts in the milk ducts (most common type)
•Can spread to surrounding tissues
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)
•Begins in the milk-producing lobules
•May be harder to detect on imaging
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
•Non-invasive, early-stage cancer confined to ducts
•Nearly 100% treatable when caught early
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
•Not true cancer ^type^https://everhope.care/cancer-types but a risk marker
•Indicates higher likelihood of
•developing invasive cancer
HR+/HER2
•Hormone receptor-positive (estrogen/progesterone)
•HER2-negative Most common subtype
Triple-Negative (HR-/HER2-)
•Lacks all three receptors (ER, PR, HER2)
•More aggressive but responds to immunotherapy
HR+/HER2+
•Hormone receptor-positive
•HER2-positive (protein overexpression)
HR-/HER2+
•Hormone receptor-negative
•HER2-positive
Inflammatory Breast Cancer
•Rare, aggressive form causing skin redness/swelling
Paget’s Disease of the Nipple
•Affects nipple skin (often with underlying DCIS/IDC)
Breast Cancer Symptoms
- •
A firm mass in the breast or underarm area. the most common and most noticed breast cancer symptom.
- •
May feel fixed or change in size over time
- •
Sudden inversion (pulling inward)
- •
Discharge (may be clear, bloody, or milky)
- •
Pain or tenderness
- •
Unexplained swelling or shrinkage of one breast
- •
Visible asymmetry between breasts
- •
Dimpling (like an orange peel)
- •
Puckering or scaly patches
- •
Redness or warmth (may resemble infection)
- •
Unexplained weight loss
- •
Persistent fatigue
- •
Bone pain (if spread occurs)
What’s Notable
Early-stage breast cancer patients may have no symptoms — which is why screenings matter.
Inflammatory breast cancer (a rare type) often causes redness/swelling without a distinct lump.
Women's breast cancer is still noticed and addressed, but men experience similar symptoms but often delay care due to lower awareness.
When to Seek Help
If any symptom persists for 2+ weeks, consult an expert cancer ^doctor^https://everhope.care/doctors-clinics — even if your mammogram was recently clear. Some changes develop between screenings.
Breast Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Gender
Higher in women
Age
Higher risk at after 55
Genetics
BRCA1/2 mutations, family history
Exposure
Radiation (<30), HRT, DES
Reproductive
Early periods (<12), late menopause (>55), late/no pregnancy
Lifestyle
Obesity (post-menopause), alcohol, smoking, inactivity, poor diet
Medical Factors
Dense breasts, past benign breast conditions
Other
Oral contraceptives (slight risk increase)
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Check-Up
Step 1: Initial Check-Up
(If you notice symptoms like a lump or changes)
What happens: Your doctor will:
- Examine your breasts and underarms for lumps and abnormalities.
- Observe skin or nipple changes.
- Ask about family history and your health.
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Imaging Tests
Step 2: Imaging Tests Mammogram: Quick breast X-ray Ultrasound: Sound wave imaging MRI: Detailed scan (high-risk cases) PET/CT: Checks for spread (advanced cases)
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 3: Biopsy (Definitive Test) (The only way to confirm cancer)
Types
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): Thin needle to collect cells
- Core Needle Biopsy: Larger needle to collect a tissue sample
- Surgical Biopsy: Lump removal for testing
Your role: Your comfort matters. Discuss pain relief options, take breaks
Pathology and Lab Results
Step 4: Pathology and Lab Results (Takes a few days to a week)
What’s checked:
- Cancer type (ductal/lobular)
- ER/PR/HER2 status
- BRCA genetic testing
Your role: Bring a loved one to discuss results
Staging Tests
Step 5: Staging Tests (To plan the best treatment)
TNM Staging System
- T (Tumor size): Tumor size and extent
- N (Lymph node involvement): Checks lymph nodes spread
- M (Metastasis): Determines spreads to other organs
Additional Tests Depending on the Cancer Type
- Bone scans
- Liver function tests
- Chest X-rays
Step 1: Initial Check-Up
(If you notice symptoms like a lump or changes)
What happens: Your doctor will:
- Examine your breasts and underarms for lumps and abnormalities.
- Observe skin or nipple changes.
- Ask about family history and your health.
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Step 2
Imaging Tests
Step 3
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 4
Pathology and Lab Results
Step 5
Staging Tests
Breast Cancer Treatment & Therapy
Lumpectomy
Description:
Tumor + margin removed; breast is conserved, the initial most ^treatment^https://everhope.care/breast-cancer-treatment options which is always opted for.
Used For:
Early-stage (I-II), small tumors
Recovery:
1-2 weeks; +radiation
Mastectomy
Description:
Full breast removal
Used For:
Large/multifocal tumors
Recovery:
4-6 weeks; reconstruction options
Lymph Node Removal
Description:
Sentinel biopsy or axillary dissection
Used For:
Check spread to lymph nodes
Recovery:
1-2 weeks
External Beam Radiation
Method :
Daily sessions (5 days/week, 3-6 weeks)
Duration:
15-30 treatments
Side Effects :
Fatigue, skin redness, breast swelling
Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy)
Method:
Radioactive seeds implanted near tumor
Duration:
1-5 days
Side Effects :
Short-term tenderness, skin changes
Chemotherapy
Targets:
Fast-growing cells. it is also known as the most common therapy for breast cancer.
Treatment Includes :
Neoadjuvant/Adjuvant
Side Effects :
Hair loss, nausea
Hormone Therapy
Target:
ER/PR+ cancers
Treatment Includes:
Tamoxifen, Letrozole
Side Effects:
Hot flashes, fatigue, joint and muscle pain
Targeted Therapy
Target:
HER2+ cancers
Treatment Includes:
Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab
Side Effects :
Nausea, headaches, breath shortness, bowel irregularities
Immunotherapy
Target:
TNBC (PD-L1+)
Treatment Includes:
Pembrolizumab, Atezolizumab
Side Effects :
Fever, weakness
Bone Metastasis
Purpose :
Prevent fractures, bone loss
Procedures:
Bisphosphonates and Denosumab
Palliative Care
Purpose:
Manage symptoms
Procedures:
Manage symptoms, side effects, stress through treatment and emotional, spiritual support
0
Survival :
99%
Treatment Approach :
Surgery ± radiation
Type:
DCIS, LCIS
I-II
Survival :
90%+
Treatment Approach :
Surgery + chemo/radiation
Type :
Early-Stage Cancer
III
Survival:
60-80%
Treatment Approach :
Aggressive combo therapy
Type:
Locally Advanced Cancer
IV
Sruvival:
~29%
Treatment Approach:
Lifelong systemic therapy
Type:
Metastatic Cancer
Lifestyle
For Whom?:
All women
Actions:
Healthy weight, exercise, limit alcohol
High-Risk Screening
For Whom? :
BRCA+ or family history
Actions:
Annual MRI + mammogram, genetic counseling
For Whom?
For Whom?:
High-risk postmenopausal ER/PR+ cancers (post-treatment) HER2+ cancers (post treatment)
Actions:
Aromatase inhibitors Hormone therapy (to reduce recurrence risk) Targeted therapy (to reduce recurrence risk)
Surgery
For Whom?:
BRCA+ carriers
Actions:
Prophylactic mastectomy
Breast Cancer Stages
- •Staging in breast cancer classifies the extent and spread of the tumor from stage 0 to stage 4, ranging from non-invasive to metastatic cancer.
- •Each stage considers tumor size, location, and lymph node involvement, which guides treatment choices and prognosis.
•Also called carcinoma in situ, this stage is non-invasive.
•Abnormal cells are confined inside the milk ducts and have not spread to surrounding breast tissue.
•Includes ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
•Accounts for about 20% of new breast cancer diagnoses.
•Highly treatable but may progress to invasive cancer if untreated.
•Early invasive breast cancer with a small tumor, typically up to 2 cm.
•May or may not have spread to some nearby lymph nodes.
•Cancer is localized with a good prognosis.
•Treatment focuses on tumor removal and sometimes lymph nodes.
•Tumor is larger than Stage 1 or has spread to a few nearby lymph nodes (e.g., in the armpit).
•Cancer is mostly localized to the breast and regional lymph nodes.
•Requires more extensive treatment due to larger tumor size or nodal involvement.
•Tumor is larger than Stage 2 or cancer has spread to multiple lymph nodes or nearby tissues like skin or chest wall.
•Known as locally advanced breast cancer, may include inflammatory breast cancer.
•Indicates more aggressive disease.
•Treatment typically involves combined therapies: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
•Cancer has spread beyond breast and regional lymph nodes to distant organs such as bones, lungs, or liver.
•Advanced stage is generally not curable.
•Managed with systemic therapies to control symptoms and prolong survival.
Management & Prevention
Side Effects
•Fatigue, pain, or menopausal symptoms can linger. For breast cancer care, talk to your doctor; options like physical therapy or meds can help.
Movement & Food
•Gentle activity (like yoga or walking) boosts energy. Eat nourishing, balanced meals to support recovery.
Follow-Up Care
•Regular scans and tests at breast cancer clinics or breast cancer centres can keep you on track and catch any changes early.
Fear of Recurrence
•Very common. Support groups, mindfulness, or therapy can ease anxiety.
Body Image
•Scars, surgery, and hair loss may impact confidence. Explore reconstruction, prosthetics, or tattoos — or embrace your new body as it is.
Post-Treatment Blues
•Feeling lost afterward is normal. Reach out for mental health support if needed.
Relationships
•Be open with loved ones. Let them know how to support you.
Work & Money
•Return at your pace. Ask about flexible work or financial aid if needed.
New Purpose
•Some survivors find meaning in advocacy or helping others — but there’s no pressure.
Why Choose Everhope for Breast Cancer?
At Everhope, breast cancer centre in Gurugram, our experts support your proactive care with advanced treatments- guiding you with knowledge, hope, and healing.
of all female cancer cases globally and in India
new cases diagnosed worldwide in 2022
of cases occur in men
FAQs on Breast Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
Yes, although rare, men can develop breast cancer. Early detection is equally important for men.
No. It increases your risk, but many people with no family history can also develop breast cancer.
Not necessarily. Many lumps are benign (non-cancerous), but any lump should be evaluated by a doctor.
Women over 40 should discuss mammogram screenings with their doctors annually or as recommended based on individual risk factors.
Find a Centre Near You
Gurgaon EBD 65
EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road, Gurgaon