Types of Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemotherapy—the most commonly used treatment approach for cancer—is believed to kill most types of the fastest-growing cells in the human body. The treatment involves different types of drugs, which are effective for various forms and stages of cancer.
These drugs, however, come with certain side effects, as they tend to kill healthy cells, too. It’s important to discuss the benefits and potential risks of chemo with a cancer specialist in Navi Mumbai before considering it. In the meantime, let’s see what chemotherapy involves and how it treats cancer.
Common Types of Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemotherapy drugs are categorized into the following types:
i) Alkylating Agents:
These cancer-killing cells destroy the DNA within the rapidly growing cells, thus preventing their multiplication and growth. The drugs are mainly used for cancers that develop gradually. Examples of alkylating agents include melphalan, temozolomide, cisplatin, busulfan, and Chlorambucil.
ii) Antimetabolites:
These drugs work by pretending to be the nutrients a cell requires for growth, eventually destroying the cancer cells by starving them to death.
iii) Anti-tumor Antibiotics:
These antibiotics destroy the DNA cells that tend to replicate quickly.
iv) Plant Alkaloids:
Mitosis is a medical procedure that affects the ability of cancer cells to grow and divide. Plant Alkaloids, also called mitotic inhibitors, contain the same compound that plants use to protect themselves from predators.
How Chemotherapy Drugs Work
Normal cells in the human body follow a cell cycle, copying DNA material to multiply and then dying when their work is done. Cancer cells, however, never die. They keep replicating the DNA within them and divide rapidly, spreading throughout the body.
These cells form tumors, which, in turn, affect your healthy organs. The goal of chemotherapy treatment in Navi Mumbai is to disrupt this cell cycle by killing cancer cells or interfering with their ability to divide.
Benefits of Chemotherapy Drugs
- It kills cancer cells so that they don’t grow and spread.
- It can shrink the tumor so that your surgeon can surgically remove it.
- The treatment increases your chances of living a healthy and longer life.
Potential Side Effects
While chemotherapy is an effective treatment for different types of cancers, it comes with its share of side effects. The treatment kills other fastest-growing cells in your body, such as the blood-forming cells or the hair follicles. The procedure can lead to:
- Hair loss
- Mouth ulcers
- Digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Tips for Managing Side Effects
Your healthcare provider will prescribe anti-nauseous drugs that can help fight nausea and vomiting. Likewise, depending on your symptoms, they will recommend medications that keep your digestive system in good shape and prevent other side effects. Here’s what else may work:
- Take ample rest
- Practice meditation, yoga, and exercise daily
- Eat small and frequent meals
- Use high-quality hair care products to keep your scalp moisturized and nourished
- Consider counseling
Conclusion
Chemotherapy has saved the lives of many cancer patients. The disease, which was once considered life-threatening, is now treatable with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can be used as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy for the best outcome.
At What Stage of Cancer Is Chemotherapy Used?
Chemotherapy is a combination of medications used to kill cancer cells that are growing aggressively and spreading to your different organs. Chemotherapy treatment in Navi Mumbai is recommended for patients diagnosed with different stages of cancer.
It’s considered an effective treatment option for all types of cancers. The type of chemotherapy your doctor advises depends on the stage, type, and severity of the cancer. They might also factor in your age and health goals to determine the most suitable treatment option.
The Different Stages of Cancer
Chemotherapy can be given for stage I to stage IV cancer patients. Most types of cancer are categorized into four stages, and the diagnosis is done based on how aggressive the cancer cells are, where they have spread, and the patient’s health. For most types, cancer in its first stage is restricted to a specific organ, while the same in stage IV is considered metastatic cancer that has spread to the surrounding organs, probably throughout the body.
Here’s how chemotherapy is planned for different stages of cancer.
Stage 1:
Chemotherapy combined with surgery
Stage 2:
A surgical removal of the malignant tumor and several sessions of chemotherapy.
Stage 3A:
Chemotherapy with surgery or surgery followed by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the location of the cancer. If the cancer can’t be removed surgically, then a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy is prescribed.
Stage 3B and 3C:
Chemotherapy with multiple rounds of radiation therapy followed by surgery and immunotherapy.
Stage 4:
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, surgery (if possible), followed by more rounds of chemotherapy.
Types of Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemotherapy drugs are a combination of medications consisting of the following:
i) Alkylating Agents:
These are responsible for destroying the DNA of the replicating cancer cells.
ii) Antimetabolites:
These drugs can destroy cancer cells when they are about to grow out of control in your body. Antimetabolites work for breast, ovarian, and other types of cancer.
iii) Antitumor:
The medication changes the DNA structure of cancer cells, restricting their growth and multiplication inside the body. Mitotic inhibitors are also commonly used to treat cancer cells, but they contain a compound that might destroy healthy cells, as well. So, their use is often limited to certain types of cancers.
Benefits of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the most viable cancer treatment for people diagnosed with cancer in different stages and severity statuses. Here’s how it benefits:
- Restrict the growth of the tumor or shrink its size to make surgical removal of the cancer possible
- Prevent the cancer cells from dividing
- Reduces the risk of relapse
Potential Side Effects
Oncologists in Navi Mumbai recommend chemotherapy after considering your age, size, type of cancer, and your health. Before you choose this treatment, know that it comes with side effects. These may vary depending on the chemo drugs used, but some common side effects found in most patients include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
- Loss of appetite
- Anemia
- Weakness in muscles
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare to discuss the most suitable chemotherapy option, the length of the treatment, and the risks.
Understanding Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
When it comes to combating breast cancer, a multidimensional approach is often required. Chemotherapy Treatment in Navi Mumbai is pivotal in eradicating cancer cells throughout the body. Breast cancer is a formidable adversary, and in the arsenal of treatments available, chemotherapy stands as a powerful weapon against its progression. In this comprehensive guide, you can learn more about chemotherapy for breast cancer, exploring its mechanisms, risks, benefits, and crucial role in the overall treatment landscape.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a medical treatment that utilizes drugs to target and destroy rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. Unlike localized treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy, chemotherapy circulates throughout the bloodstream, reaching cancer cells that may have spread to other body parts.
How Does Chemotherapy Work for Breast Cancer?
Chemotherapy is a dynamic player in the breast cancer treatment arena, strategically deployed at different phases of the patient’s journey. In the pre-surgical phase, known as neoadjuvant chemotherapy, it shrinks tumors, facilitating more effective surgical removal.
Post-surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy takes the stage, aiming to eradicate any residual cancer cells, minimizing the risk of recurrence. The drugs utilized in chemotherapy exert their impact by disrupting the cell division process, impeding the growth and spread of cancer cells.
This dual approach, targeting both pre- and post-operative stages, showcases the versatility and effectiveness of chemotherapy in comprehensively managing breast cancer.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Chemotherapy?
While chemotherapy is a potent weapon, it is not without its challenges. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and a heightened infection susceptibility. It is essential to acknowledge these potential side effects while recognizing that advancements in medical science continuously strive to minimize the impact on a patient’s quality of life.
Also Read: How Chemotherapy Is Done?
What Are the Benefits of Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer?
The benefits of chemotherapy in treating breast cancer are multifaceted.
1) Tumor Size Reduction
Chemotherapy effectively targets and reduces the size of breast tumors, facilitating a more manageable surgical intervention.
2) Risk Reduction for Cancer Recurrence
By eradicating cancer cells that may remain after surgery, chemotherapy significantly lowers the risk of cancer recurrence.
3) Enhanced Surgical Success
Administering chemotherapy post-surgery ensures the elimination of any residual cancer cells, enhancing the success of surgical procedures.
4) Holistic Treatment Approach
Integrating chemotherapy into a comprehensive treatment plan addresses cancer from multiple angles, leading to a more thorough and effective therapeutic strategy.
5) Long-Term Survival Rates
The multifaceted benefits of chemotherapy contribute to improved long-term survival rates, offering individuals battling breast cancer a more favorable prognosis.
6) Systemic Cancer Cell Targeting
Chemotherapy’s systemic nature allows it to target cancer cells throughout the body, addressing potential metastases and minimizing the risk of distant recurrence.
Conclusion
In breast cancer treatment, chemotherapy plays a dynamic and indispensable role. Its ability to target cancer cells systemically makes it a crucial component of a comprehensive treatment strategy. For individuals confronting breast cancer, collaboration with a specialized medical team, including a Breast Cancer Specialist in Navi Mumbai, is essential. Mangal Prabhu Hospital is a beacon of healthcare excellence, providing state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of experts to guide patients through their breast cancer journey.
How Chemotherapy Is Done?
Introduction to Chemotherapy
The journey through cancer treatment often involves various therapeutic approaches, and one of the most well-known is chemotherapy. This widely recognized treatment plays a crucial role in combating cancer cells, and understanding how chemotherapy is administered can empower individuals facing cancer. In Navi Mumbai, centers like Mangal Prabhu Hospital offer comprehensive care under the expertise of skilled Oncologists in Navi Mumbai.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy, often referred to as “chemo,” is a medical treatment that employs powerful drugs to target and destroy rapidly dividing cells. While cancer cells are the primary target, chemotherapy can also affect healthy cells that divide quickly, such as bone marrow, digestive tract, and hair follicles.
What is the Purpose of Chemotherapy?
The primary goal of chemotherapy is to eliminate or control the growth of cancer cells. It can be used at different stages of cancer treatment:
a) Before Surgery:
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy aims to shrink tumors before surgery, making them more manageable to remove.
b) After Surgery:
Adjuvant chemotherapy is administered after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
c) Primary Treatment:
In cases where surgery or radiation therapy may not be viable, chemotherapy is the immediate treatment.
d) For Palliative Care:
In advanced stages, chemotherapy can alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life.
How Chemotherapy is Done?
The process of chemotherapy involves several key steps:
A) Consultation and Planning:
Patients undergo a thorough consultation with an oncologist before initiating chemotherapy. A personalized treatment plan is developed based on cancer type, stage, overall health, and medical history.
B) Drug Administration:
Chemotherapy drugs can be administered in various ways, including intravenously (IV), orally (in the form of pills or liquids), or through injections. The chosen method depends on the specific drugs and the patient’s condition.
C) Treatment Cycles:
Chemotherapy is often administered in cycles, each consisting of a treatment period followed by a rest period. This approach helps minimize damage to healthy cells and allows the body to recover.
D) Outpatient or Inpatient:
Depending on the intensity and duration of treatment, chemotherapy sessions may be conducted on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home afterward or in an inpatient setting for more extensive regimens.
What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?
While chemotherapy is a powerful tool against cancer, it can also lead to side effects due to its impact on average, rapidly dividing cells. Common side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Hair Loss
- Bone Marrow Suppression
- Gastrointestinal Issues
- Mouth Sores
- Neuropathy
Conclusion
Chemotherapy is a dynamic and evolving aspect of cancer treatment, representing a cornerstone in the fight against this formidable disease. In Navi Mumbai, facilities like Mangal Prabhu Hospital, with dedicated oncologists, play a vital role in providing comprehensive Chemotherapy Treatment in Navi Mumbai. While the process can be challenging, understanding the purpose, procedure, and potential side effects empowers individuals on their cancer journey. With ongoing advancements in medical science, chemotherapy significantly improves outcomes and enhances the quality of life for those undergoing cancer treatment.
How Long Does Chemo Take To Shrink A Tumor?
What is Chemotherapy, and How Does it Work
Chemotherapy is a medical treatment that uses powerful drugs to target and destroy cancer cells. It is a widely used approach in cancer treatment, either as a standalone therapy or combined with other treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy works by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells, ultimately leading to their death. Visit an Oncologist in Navi Mumbai at Mangal Prabhu Hospital to learn more about chemotherapy treatment and its need.
Factors that Affect How Long Chemotherapy Takes
The duration it takes for chemotherapy to shrink a tumor can vary widely from person to person and depends on several factors:
i) Type of Tumor
The type of cancer and its aggressiveness play a significant role in determining how long chemotherapy will take to shrink a tumor. Some cancers respond more rapidly to chemotherapy than others.
ii) Size of Tumor
Larger tumors may require more time to respond to chemotherapy and show noticeable shrinkage. Smaller tumors may respond more quickly.
iii) Location of Tumor
The tumor’s location within the body can influence the time it takes for chemotherapy to have an effect. Tumors in easily accessible areas may respond more rapidly than those in challenging locations.
iv) Patient Health
A patient’s overall health and immune system strength can impact their response to chemotherapy. Patients in better health may tolerate and respond to treatment more effectively.
Treatment Options for Shrinking Tumors
Chemotherapy is just one of the treatment options available for shrinking tumors. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer. Here are some common treatment options:
- Surgical removal of the tumor is often the first choice for solid tumors that are localized and haven’t spread. In some cases, surgery may be followed by chemotherapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and shrink tumors. Depending on the cancer type, it may be used with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment.
- Immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It has shown promising results in treating certain types of cancer.
Challenges Associated with Chemotherapy
While chemotherapy is a valuable tool in cancer treatment, it comes with challenges and potential side effects, including:
- Chemotherapy can cause various side effects.
- Some tumors may become resistant to chemotherapy over time, making it less effective.
- Chemotherapy is often administered in cycles, with rest periods in between. The overall duration of treatment can vary, ranging from a few weeks to several months or more.
Conclusion
The duration it takes for chemotherapy to shrink a tumor can vary based on several factors, including the type of tumor, its size, location, and the patient’s overall health. Chemotherapy is just one of the many treatment options available. Hence, you should choose the treatment after consulting with an oncologist specializing in cancer care.
At Mangal Prabhu Hospital, a leading Chemotherapy Center in Navi Mumbai, experienced oncologists work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans. Whether it’s chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatments, the goal is to provide the most effective and comprehensive care to combat cancer.
The Pros And Cons Of Chemotherapy: Is It Right For You?
Chemotherapy is the most effective treatment plan for treating and killing cancer cells by preventing their slowing and spreading growth. It is the most common cancer treatment to prevent tumor growth and destroy cancer cells. However, this guide will help you understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with chemotherapy so you can also make the right decision.
What is Chemotherapy & How Does It Work?
Chemotherapy is a kind of cancer treatment that is also known as chemo. It includes various drugs and treatment plans such as immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy against different types of cancer. Chemotherapy can also be paired with radiation therapy to cure cancer and ease its symptoms.
Chemotherapy works by destroying the cancer cells and stopping them from spreading. However, Mangal Prabhu Hospital is the best chemotherapy center in Navi Mumbai and uses the best tools and techniques to provide the fastest and most effective treatment. Their oncologist may use chemotherapy in various ways, including neoadjuvant, adjuvant, palliative, and curative therapy.
The Pros of Chemotherapy – Understanding the Benefits
Chemotherapy is very advantageous for cancer patients. Some of the benefits of this treatment are:
- It kills the cancer cells in the early stages of the disease.
- It reduces the intensity of the tumor before radiation therapy or surgery.
- Chemotherapy helps prevent and slow down the growth of cancer cells.
- Help in fighting the cancer cell, and other treatments work better.
- It made surgery possible by eliminating the cancer’s dead cells and reducing its spread.
Also Read: Chemotherapy: Types, Treatment, And Side Effects!
The Cons of Chemotherapy – Possible Side Effects & Risks
Chemotherapy not only kills cancer cells, but it also slows down the growth of healthy cells. It damages healthy cells and may cause side effects. However, some of the most common disadvantages and side effects of chemotherapy are:
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Patients must visit hospitals regularly to continue therapy, which can be tiring.
- It may not help all cancer patients.
- The recovery time and effects may differ from person to person.
Deciding Whether Chemotherapy is Right for You
Chemotherapy benefits all cancer patients or people with early signs of cancer but has some potential side effects. However, it would be best to decide and ask your loved ones whether you should start chemotherapy to treat your issue. It is the most effective way to treat cancer and may be very important for patients who do not need immediate treatment, such as prostate cancer or indolent lymphoma.
However, your physician may recommend chemotherapy if there is a sign that your cancer may grow in the future to prevent the cancer cells from spreading, or they may also suggest it if it has already spread to kill harmful cells.
Conclusion
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or it has already spread, it would be best to begin your cancer treatment as soon as possible. However, you can consider the best hematologist oncologist in Navi Mumbai, Mangal Prabhu Hospital, for the best cancer treatment. They offer the highest quality treatment with their standard healthcare plan at an affordable price, so everyone can get the best treatment without worrying about anything.
6 Warning Signs of Breast Cancer
Breast tissue can become cancerous and evolve into breast cancer. Breast cancer develops when the cells there start to divide and grow in an uncontrollable manner, resulting in a tumour or lump. Via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, these aberrant cells can also infiltrate neighbouring tissues or move to other regions of the body.
To increase the likelihood of survival, early detection and treatment of breast cancer are crucial. According to a Cancer Specialist in Navi Mumbai, clinical breast checks, breast MRIs, and other screening procedures can aid in the early detection of breast cancer, when it is most curable.
Depending on the kind and stage of cancer, treatment options for breast cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy, say the experts in breast cancer treatment in Navi Mumbai.
Also Read: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST CANCER?
The following are the 6 types of breast cancer warning signs:
- A bulge or enlargement in the breast or underarm region or close-by alterations in breast size or form
- Nipples that are sensitive or dripping
- Changes in the breast or nipple’s skin tone or texture
- Pain experienced in any breast region
- Breast or nipple swelling or redness
- Palpable Nodule or Lymph Node
Palpable Nodule or Lymph Node
Usually seen in the neck, groyne, or beneath the arms, a palpable nodule or lymph node is a bulge that can be felt or touched on the body. Nodules or lymph nodes that can be felt are frequently the results of an infection, inflammation, or injury, but they can also signal a more serious problem, like cancer.
The lymphatic system, which aids the body in battling illnesses and infections, includes lymph nodes. Little, bean-shaped lymph nodes are filled with immune cells that can assist the body in recognising and combating invading invaders.
The lymph nodes might swell and become palpable when there is an infection or inflammation in the body because they are working to combat the illness. A palpable lymph node, however, may occasionally be an indication of cancer that has progressed from its initial sites, such as breast cancer or melanoma.
It’s crucial to contact your healthcare practitioner for an evaluation to ascertain the cause and, if necessary, proper treatment if you find a palpable nodule or lymph node.
Conclusion:
It’s crucial to remember that not all breast lumps are malignant and that some breast tumours may not even exhibit any symptoms. To find out the cause and, if required, seek treatment, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare physician if you experience any of these warning signs.
CHEMOTHERAPY: TYPES, TREATMENT, AND SIDE EFFECTS!
What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a medical procedure that employs medications to either eliminate or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It frequently works in tandem with other cancer therapies including surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy medications can be administered orally or intravenously, entering the bloodstream and travelling throughout the body to eradicate cancer cells wherever they may be.
Patients who receive chemotherapy treatments may endure side effects such as hair loss, nausea, vomiting, and exhaustion since these medications can also harm healthy cells. The type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s general health and other medical conditions, will determine the precise chemotherapy medications and treatment strategy.
Types of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy medications come in a wide variety of forms and are categorized in various ways. Below are some of the most typical chemotherapy regimens:
- Alkylating Agents: These medications function by introducing an alkyl group to DNA, which prevents cancer cells from replicating. Cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, and busulfan are a few examples.
- Antimetabolites: These medications imitate the components of DNA and RNA, disrupting cancer cells’ ability to operate normally. Methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, and are a few examples.
- Anthracyclines: These medications function by obstructing the activity of an enzyme required for the replication of cancer cells. Doxorubicin and epirubicin are two examples.
- Topoisomerase Inhibitors: These medications prevent the action of topoisomerases, which are essential for DNA replication. Irinotecan and etoposide are two examples.
- Mitotic Inhibitors: These medications act by preventing cell division. Paclitaxel and docetaxel are two examples.
- Platinum Compounds: By attaching to DNA, these medications stop cancer cells from proliferating. Cisplatin and carboplatin are two examples.
- Monoclonal Antibodies: These medicines, which are referred to as targeted therapies, specifically target the proteins on the outer layer of cancer cells. Trastuzumab and rituximab are two examples.
Also Read: What You Need To Know Chemotherapy?
The Stage Of Cancer At Which Chemotherapy Is Used
Depending on the type of cancer and its stage of development, chemotherapy may be administered at various stages of cancer treatment. The Chemotherapy centre in Navi Mumbai states that in order to make a tumour smaller and easier to remove, chemotherapy may occasionally be administered prior to surgery.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy denotes this. In some instances, chemotherapy may be used following surgery to eradicate any cancer cells that remained and lower the likelihood of the disease returning. The term for this is adjuvant chemotherapy.
For some cancer types, especially those that have spread past their original site, chemotherapy can also be employed as the main treatment. Chemotherapy is used in these situations to kill cancer cells throughout the body and inhibit or stop the spread of the disease.
An oncologist, who focuses on treating cancer, is often part of the healthcare team that decides whether to use chemotherapy and when to administer it. The particular course of treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s general health, and any other medical disorders.
Treatment Methods Post Chemotherapy
According to an Oncologist in Navi Mumbai, the subsequent course of treatment following chemotherapy is determined by the type of cancer being treated and the patient’s response to the chemotherapy. Chemotherapy may be able to totally eradicate cancer in rare situations, leaving the patient free from further treatment. In some situations, extra therapy could be required to guarantee that every cancer cell is eliminated and stop the disease from coming back. Following chemotherapy, these typical next steps are listed:
- Surgery: To remove the tumour, if the cancer is limited and has not progressed to other body parts, surgery may be advised.
- Radiation Therapy: This involves killing cancer cells with high-energy radiation. It can be used either on its own or in conjunction with chemotherapy or surgery.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is administering medications that support the body’s immune system in identifying and eliminating cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: When used to treat certain types of cancer, targeted therapy includes administering medications that specifically target chemicals or proteins in cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone treatment is used to treat tumours including breast and prostate cancer that are susceptible to hormones. Hormone treatment stops the hormones that promote the growth of cancer cells from being produced or acting, which is how it works.
The type of cancer, the stage of the disease, the patient’s general condition, and other considerations will determine which treatment should be used following chemotherapy. Together, you and your oncologist will create a treatment strategy that is personalised for your unique requirements.
What To Know About Breast Cancer
There are things you should know to understand what breast cancer is, know your chances for getting it, and how to find it early. Finding breast cancer early is critical because when it is found early, it is easier to treat. Read to learn more about the common symptoms of breast cancer and the best way many women find breast cancer early and take affordable breast cancer treatment in Navi Mumbai.
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, after skin cancer. It is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. Cancer cells can also spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body
What symptoms should I look for?
Some warning signs of breast cancer are:
• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
• Pulling in of the nipple.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
• Any change in the size or shape of the breast.
• Pain in the breast.
These symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your health care provider right away.
Causes
Oncologist doctors in Navi Mumbai know that breast cancer occurs when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally. These cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do and continue to accumulate, forming a lump or mass. Cells may spread (metastasize) through your breast to your lymph nodes or to other parts of your body.
Breast cancer most often begins with cells in the milk-producing ducts (invasive ductal carcinoma). Breast cancer may also begin in the glandular tissue called lobules (invasive lobular carcinoma) or in other cells or tissue within the breast.
Researchers have identified hormonal, lifestyle and environmental factors that may increase your risk of breast cancer. But it’s not clear why some people who have no risk factors develop cancer, yet other people with risk factors never do. It’s likely that breast cancer is caused by a complex interaction of your genetic makeup and your environment.
Breast cancer stages
Doctors divide breast cancer into stages based on the size of the tumor and how much it has spread.
Cancers that are large or have invaded nearby tissues or organs are at a higher stage than cancers that are small or still contained in the breast. To stage breast cancer, doctors need to know:
- if the cancer is invasive or noninvasive
- how large the tumor is
- whether the lymph nodes are involved
- if the cancer has spread to nearby tissue or organs
Breast cancer has five main stages: stages 0 to 4.
Stage 0 breast cancer
Stage 0 is DCIS. Cancer cells in DCIS remain confined to the ducts in the breast and have not spread into nearby tissue.
Stage 1 breast cancer
- Stage 1A. The primary tumor is 2 centimeters (cm) wide or less. The lymph nodes are not affected.
- Stage 1B. Cancer is found in nearby lymph nodes. Either there is no tumor in the breast, or the tumor is smaller than 2 cm.
Stage 2 breast cancer
- Stage 2A. The tumor is smaller than 2 cm and has spread to 1 to 3 nearby lymph nodes, or it’s between 2 and 5 cm and hasn’t spread to any lymph nodes.
- Stage 2B. The tumor is between 2 and 5 cm and has spread to 1 to 3 axillary (armpit) lymph nodes, or it’s larger than 5 cm and hasn’t spread to any lymph nodes.
Stage 3 breast cancer
- Stage 3A.
- The cancer has spread to 4 to 9 axillary lymph nodes or has enlarged the internal mammary lymph nodes. The primary tumor can be any size.
- Tumors are greater than 5 cm. The cancer has spread to 1 to 3 axillary lymph nodes or any breastbone nodes.
- Stage 3B. A tumor has invaded the chest wall or skin and may or may not have invaded up to 9 lymph nodes.
- Stage 3C. Cancer is found in 10 or more axillary lymph nodes, lymph nodes near the collarbone, or internal mammary nodes.
Stage 4 breast cancer (metastatic breast cancer)
Stage 4 breast cancer can have a tumor of any size. Its cancer cells have spread to nearby and distant lymph nodes as well as distant organs.
The testing your doctor does will determine the stage of your breast cancer, which will affect your treatment.
Breast cancer treatment
Your breast cancer’s stage, how far it has invaded (if it has), and how big the tumor has grown all play a large part in determining what kind of treatment you’ll need.
To start, your doctor will determine your cancer’s size, stage, and grade. Your cancer’s grade describes how likely it is to grow and spread. After that, you can discuss your treatment options.
Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer. Many people have additional treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or hormone therapy.
Surgery
Several types of surgery may be used to remove breast cancer, including:
- Lumpectomy. This procedure removes the tumor and some surrounding tissue, leaving the rest of the breast intact.
- Mastectomy. In this procedure, a surgeon removes an entire breast. In a double mastectomy, they remove both breasts.
- Sentinel node biopsy. This surgery removes a few of the lymph nodes that receive drainage from the tumor. These lymph nodes will be tested. If they don’t have cancer, you may not need additional surgery to remove more lymph nodes.
- Axillary lymph node dissection. If lymph nodes removed during a sentinel node biopsy contain cancer cells, your doctor may remove additional lymph nodes.
- Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy. Even though breast cancer may be present in only one breast, some people elect to have a contralateral prophylactic mastectomy. This surgery removes your healthy breast to lower your risk of developing breast cancer again.
Radiation therapy
With radiation therapy, high-powered beams of radiation are used to target and kill cancer cells. Most radiation treatments use external beam radiation. This technique uses a large machine on the outside of the body.
Advances in cancer treatment have also enabled doctors to irradiate cancer from inside the body.
To conduct brachytherapy, surgeons place radioactive seeds, or pellets, inside the body near the tumor site. The seeds stay there for a short period of time and work to destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a drug treatment used to destroy cancer cells. Some people may undergo chemotherapy on its own, but this type of treatment is often used along with other treatments, especially surgery.
Some people will have surgery first followed by other treatments, such as chemo or radiation. This is called adjuvant therapy. Others may have chemotherapy first to shrink the cancer, called neoadjuvant therapy, and then surgery.
In some cases, doctors prefer to give chemotherapy before surgery. The hope is that the treatment will shrink the tumor, and then the surgery will not need to be as invasive.
Chemotherapy in has many unwanted side effects, so discuss your concerns with your doctor before starting treatment.
What you need to know chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill fast-growing cells in your body.
Chemotherapy in Juinagar, Navi Mumbai is most often used to treat cancer, since cancer cells grow and multiply much more quickly than most cells in the body.
Many different chemotherapy drugs are available. Chemotherapy drugs can be used alone or in combination to treat a wide variety of cancers.
Though chemotherapy is an effective way to treat many types of cancer, chemotherapy treatment also carries a risk of side effects. Some chemotherapy side effects are mild and treatable, while others can cause serious complications.
What to Expect When Having Chemotherapy:
Each chemotherapy treatment plan is created to meet a patient’s unique needs. But before treatment starts, you can expect to take these general steps.
Meet with your oncologist. The doctor will look over your medical records and do a physical exam. You will also have tests done to help plan treatment. Your exact treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Your oncologist in Nerul, Navi Mumbai will also consider your age, your general health, and other factors, such as previous cancer treatments.
Learn about your chemotherapy treatment schedule. Your health care team will explain when and how often you need chemotherapy. Most chemotherapy treatments are given in repeating cycles. The length of a cycle depends on the drug(s) you receive. Most cycles range from 2 to 6 weeks. The number of treatment doses scheduled within each cycle also depends on the prescribed chemotherapy.
Learn how food and medicine can affect chemotherapy. Your health care team will tell you if there are restrictions or suggestions about what to eat and drink on chemotherapy days. This will help your treatment work best. Always tell your chemotherapy team about any prescription and non-prescription medicines you take.
Common side effects:
The side effects you experience while on chemotherapy depend on which drug or combination of drugs are prescribed. Different drugs cause different side effects. And each person’s experience is different. People may not experience the same side effects even when taking the same drug. And you can have different side effects than you did in the past if you take the same drug again.
Fatigue. Fatigue is feeling tired or exhausted even if you get enough sleep. It is the most common side effect of chemotherapy.
Pain. Chemotherapy sometimes causes pain. This can include:
- Headaches
- Muscle Pain
- Stomach pain
- Pain from nerve damage, such as burning, numbness, or shooting pains, usually in the fingers and toes.
Mouth and throat sores. Chemotherapy can damage the cells inside the mouth and throat. This causes painful sores in these areas, a condition called mucositis. Mouth sores usually happen 5 to 14 days after a treatment. It is also important to watch for infection in these sores.
Diarrhea. Some chemotherapy causes loose or watery bowel movements. Preventing diarrhea or treating it early helps keep you from getting dehydrated (losing too much body fluid). It also helps prevent other health problems.
Constipation. Chemotherapy can cause constipation. This means not having a bowel movement often enough or having difficult bowel movements.
Nausea and vomiting. Chemotherapy can cause nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) and vomiting (throwing up). Whether you have these side effects, and how often, depends on the specific drugs and dose.
Blood disorders. Your bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside your bones. It makes new blood cells. Chemotherapy affects this process, so you might have side effects from having too few blood cells.
Most side effects go away after chemotherapy is complete. But some continue or come back, or develop later. For example, some types of chemotherapy may cause permanent damage to the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or reproductive system. And some people have trouble with thinking, concentrating, and memory for months or years after treatment. Cancer survivors also have a higher risk of second cancers later in life.
Children who had chemotherapy are at risk of specific side effects that happen months or years after treatment.
Outlook
The outlook for an individual receiving chemotherapy will depend largely on the type, stage, and location of the cancer and a person’s overall health. In some cases, complete remission is possible. Mangal Prabhu is the best chemotherapy center in Navi Mumbai.
There can be adverse effects, however, and people may need to adjust their lifestyle or work routine during treatment. However, these usually resolve after treatment finishes.