Cancer is a progressive disease which starts from the mutation of a single cell and if left untreated, may be fatal.
When it comes to gender, women are more vulnerable to certain types of cancer. Breast cancer and cervical cancer are two types of cancer which are responsible for most cancer related deaths in women in India.
According to doctors, a quarter of the world’s cervical cancer patients live in India.
Early detection of cancer leads to higher chances of successful treatment. Breast cancer and cervical cancer are no different. Vigilance, awareness and proactiveness are the need of the hour.
Awareness
Cancer has been linked to obesity, smoking, alcohol, poor hygiene, hormonal issues, polluted environment, unhealthy dietary habits and uneven sleeping patterns. It is imperative to be aware about cancer, its symptoms, causes. If you or anyone in your family has any history of breast cancer, then the susceptibility of getting cancer increases. A person needs to be aware of their family’s medical history as well. There is no replacement for awareness.
Breast cancer usually develops as a lump in the breast tissue. It is imperative that every woman develops a self-examination routine to check her breast area for any lump formation. Similarly cervical cancer too has some warning signs which every woman must watch out for- excessive vaginal bleeding, especially in between the period cycle, formation of watery or frothy coloured discharge, pain in pelvic area during sexual intercourse, etc. These symptoms may be accompanied by fatigue, weight loss.
Regular Check-up
Most women put off check-up even if they have symptoms like pain, fatigue or even coloured discharge, lump in breast, nipple discharge or anything which may appear out of the ordinary. Being busy, stressed, lazy or simple forgetfulness are not acceptable excuses when it comes to talking care of your health.
Meet your doctor
It is highly recommended that a woman after 30 years of age start opting for regular check-ups with her ob-gyn not only for her reproductive health, but also to screen for cancer.