Breast cancer is the leading cancer among Indian women, especially in urban regions due to lifestyle shifts. Early detection challenges contribute to lower survival rates. Essential measures include enhanced screening and public awareness. Breast cancer treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies tailored to individual cases.
Mucositis as a side effect in breast cancer treatment and how to
manage it
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India,
accounting for 14% of all female cancers. In 2020, around 178,000 new cases were
reported, with about 90,000 deaths. Urban areas see higher incidence rates
compared to rural regions, primarily due to lifestyle changes. Early detection
remains a significant challenge, with many cases diagnosed at later stages,
contributing to lower survival rates compared to Western countries.
Factors like limited awareness, delayed diagnosis, and inadequate
access to treatment facilities worsen outcomes. To reduce mortality, increasing
screening, improving public awareness, and enhancing healthcare infrastructure
are essential steps. Hereditary factors play a role in 5-10% of breast cancer
cases, most often linked to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Women
carrying these mutations have a considerably higher risk of developing breast
cancer. A family history of breast, ovarian, or other cancers further increases
the risk of hereditary breast cancer. Regular screening is a critical tool in
reducing breast cancer mortality, as early detection dramatically improves
survival rates. Mammograms, self-exams, and clinical breast exams are essential
in catching breast cancer early when it is most treatable, particularly for
women over 40 or those with a family history of the disease.
Breast cancer treatment in India follows a multidisciplinary
approach. After diagnosis through imaging and biopsy, treatment is tailored
based on the cancer's stage. For early-stage cancers, surgery—such as a
lumpectomy or mastectomy—is often the first step, followed by radiation
therapy. In more advanced (locally) cases, chemotherapy, targeted
therapy, immunotherapy, or hormonal therapy may be administered
before surgery to shrink the tumor. Post-surgery, additional treatments like
chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy help prevent recurrence. A
particularly challenging type of breast cancer, Triple Negative Breast Cancer
(TNBC), is treated with a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery,
and radiation. Treatment plans depend on the type of tumor, the patient’s
overall health, and access to medical facilities. Personalized treatment
protocols and clinical trials are increasingly available, especially in urban
centers.
Breast cancer treatment may cause various side effects. Surgery
may result in pain, swelling, or restricted arm movement. Chemotherapy can lead
to hair loss, nausea, fatigue, anemia, mucositis, and a higher risk of
infection. Radiation therapy often causes skin irritation, fatigue, and
sometimes permanent changes like breast tissue hardening. Hormonal therapy can
trigger menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and bone thinning.
Targeted therapies, while generally less toxic, can still cause fatigue,
diarrhea, and skin issues. A common concern after lymph node removal is
lymphedema (arm swelling). Most side effects are reversible and can be managed
effectively with supportive care, readily available at multidisciplinary
centers.
Mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy, has garnered
media attention recently. It could be seen in 15-20% of patients receiving
chemotherapy for their breast cancer treatment. Mostly patients develop very
mild mucositis but rarely the presentation could be severe. This condition
involves inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes, especially in the
mouth and digestive tract. Chemotherapy drugs impact rapidly dividing cells,
including those in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, leading to painful
sores, difficulty swallowing, and a heightened infection risk. Although
mucositis is usually short-lived, it can temporarily affect nutrition and quality
of life. Early intervention, including good oral hygiene, pain relief, and
protective oral rinses, is key to managing this condition. Severe cases may
require adjusting chemotherapy doses or taking breaks from treatment.
In 2024, breast cancer treatment has significantly advanced, with
breakthroughs in targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and personalized medicine.
These innovations are improving survival rates and enhancing quality of life
for patients. Early detection and new treatment options mean more women are
living longer, healthier lives. Effective management of treatment side effects
also plays a crucial role in improving outcomes and reducing the overall burden
of breast cancer treatment.
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