Chandigarh: Emphasising the critical role of awareness, timely screening and early diagnosis in improving breast cancer treatment outcomes, a team of oncology experts from Livasa Hospital, Mohali, including Dr. Jatin Sarin, director–medical oncology, Dr. Priyanshu Choudhary, consultant–medical oncology, Dr. Meenakshi Mittal, director– radiation oncology, Dr. Vijay Bansal, director–surgical oncology, Dr. Shubh Mahindru, director–surgical oncology, and Dr. Mukesh Chawla, consultant-clinical haematology & BMT physician addressed a press conference in Chandigarh on Monday.
During the interaction, the experts underlined the need to strengthen breast cancer awareness and encourage women to undergo appropriate screening based on their age, individual risk factors and medical advice. They emphasised that recognising unusual breast changes and seeking prompt medical evaluation can help facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment.
The experts advised women to remain alert to warning signs such as a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, dimpling of the skin, nipple changes, unusual nipple discharge, or persistent redness and swelling. While not every breast change indicates cancer, they stressed that any unusual or persistent change should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even in the absence of pain.
They also highlighted that breast self-awareness plays an important role in recognising changes but should complement, rather than replace, recommended breast cancer screening and professional medical evaluation. Women were encouraged to avoid self-diagnosis and seek timely consultation instead of delaying medical attention out of fear or uncertainty.
The delays in seeking medical advice can postpone diagnosis and treatment, potentially affecting outcomes. The experts urged women to overcome fear, stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer and to consult a specialist whenever they notice unusual changes or have concerns about their breast health.
The experts further emphasised that breast cancer awareness is a shared responsibility that extends beyond women to families and communities. They encouraged men to initiate open conversations about breast health with their mothers, wives, sisters and daughters, help dispel myths and social stigma surrounding breast cancer, and support women in accessing timely screening and appropriate medical care.
