October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Screening Saves Lives
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, approximately 1 in 22 women in urban areas and 1 in 60 women in rural areas will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Early detection through screening can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
At Unnati Pharmax, we not only supply high-quality anti-cancer medicines for hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in bulk and single orders, but we also aim to educate women about the importance of early breast cancer screening.
Key Breast Cancer Screening Tests
1. Monthly Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
BSE is a simple, self-administered test that can be done at home in 5–10 minutes. Women aged 15 years and above are encouraged to perform BSE monthly. Steps include:
- Stand topless in front of a mirror and look for changes in shape, size, symmetry, or dimpling of the breast.
- Raise your hands and inspect the breasts again for any abnormalities.
- Use your fingertips to feel the entire breast in circular motions, including under the armpits and up to the collarbone.
- Check the nipple for any discharge.
Tip: Women with menstrual cycles should perform BSE between day 5 to day 10 of their cycle. Postmenopausal women can select a fixed day each month.
For more self-care tips, see our related article: Healthy Lifestyle for Cancer Prevention
2. Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)
CBE is performed by a trained physician or nurse to detect lumps, hardness, or nipple changes. High-risk women or those noticing abnormalities during BSE should have a CBE every 6 months.
3. Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray of the breast tissue and is recommended annually for women over 40 or as advised by a doctor. Accuracy depends on breast density and age, and in younger women with dense breasts, mammography is often combined with ultrasonography.
Learn more about screening guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
4. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to detect abnormalities in breast tissue. It is primarily recommended for high-risk women, such as those with BRCA gene mutations. MRI is usually used alongside mammography and CBE for comprehensive screening.
When to Start Screening
- BSE: Age 15+
- CBE: Age 40+ (or earlier for high-risk women)
- Mammography: Age 40+, annually or as advised
- MRI: High-risk groups only, based on doctor’s recommendation
Precautions Before Screening
No special precautions are generally required, but CBE before mammography can help target areas of concern.
Understanding Test Results
- Positive Result: Indicates structural abnormalities, but does not always mean cancer. Further testing such as a biopsy may be required.
- Negative Result: Suggests no current structural abnormalities. Routine follow-up screenings remain important.
Medicines and Support for Breast Cancer
At Unnati Pharmax, we supply a wide range of anti-cancer medicines, including:
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Targeted therapy agents
- Supportive care medications
Available in bulk and single orders for hospitals, clinics, and international distributors.
📧 For bulk orders or export inquiries: info@unnatipharmax.com
Conclusion
Breast cancer screening is crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and better survival outcomes. Combined with access to high-quality medicines from trusted suppliers like Unnati Pharmax, women can proactively manage their breast health.
Remember: Screening doesn’t prevent cancer, but it helps catch it early, which makes treatment more effective. Speak to your doctor about the right schedule for your screening.
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