Hina Khan Diagnosed With Breast Cancer: Why is it Important to Have Regular Breast Screenings? Expert Speak

Actress Hina Khan has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. She shared the new via her Instagram account and stated that her treatment has already begun. Breast cancer is a rising cause of concern and is also one of the common cancer that may develop in women. According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), “In 2022, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 670 000 deaths globally. Breast cancer occurs in every country of the world in women at any age after puberty but with increasing rates in later life.”

It is one of the most common cancer cases in women across the world. The mortality rate of this disease can be decreased if it is detected early using preventive screenings. Mammography is the X-ray image of a breast, where non-palpable tumours can be detected. If those types of tumours are detected earlier, before growing further and spreading to other areas by the treatment, then the treatment will be more effective.

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. If left unchecked, the tumours can spread throughout the body and become fatal. Therefore, taking preventive care is important.

Importance of Preventive Breast Screening

India.com got in touch with Dr Teji Dawane, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Whitefield, Bengaluru who explained the importance of breast screenings. Preventive breast screening is important in identifying and treating breast cancer. It includes regular mammograms, clinical breast examinations, and self-examinations that help in spotting abnormalities at an early and treatable stage. This proactive approach will significantly increase a woman’s chance of successful treatment and survival from a potential ill effect.

Screening by clinical breast examination by a health professional may identify lumps or other changes that demand additional investigation. Self-exams let women familiarize themselves with their breasts and changes, and thus be able to detect anything abnormal at the earliest opportunity. Incorporating these methods provides an effective way of monitoring breast health.

Preventive screenings are very necessary for women who have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors such as genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Such women might need to have regular screenings earlier and more often. On the other hand, even when there are no major risk factors for breast cancer, the recommended screening schedules should be followed since most breast cancers occur in women who do not seem to have any known risk factors.

This, therefore, means that preventive breast screenings play a very vital role in dealing with breast cancer. They offer the best opportunity for early detection, effective treatment, and improved survival rates from the disease and are, something which all women should prioritise as part of their regular health care to be sure that any problems are picked up quickly and dealt with.