Hina Khan diagnosed with Breast Cancer- Here’s all you need to know!

Hina Khan, a beloved actor, the popular bahu of the Indian television show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, has displayed immense courage by publicly revealing her battle with stage 3 breast cancer. This news comes as a shock to her millions of fans, and it's a stark reminder of the strength it takes to face such a challenging diagnosis.

Breast cancer is a frightening reality for many women. It's a disease that affects nearly millions year after year worldwide. While the vast majority of cases are in women, men can also develop breast cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatme

What exactly is Breast Cancer?

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Breast cancer is a form of cancer that develops when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is a type of cancer that first starts from your breasts. It can affect one or both breasts simultaneously, and while it's predominantly a concern for women, men can develop breast cancer as well.

The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 2.3 million women will be diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide each year. Fortunately, early detection is key to successful treatment.

Breast tumour is the same as breast cancer? 

You must have heard people say that soomeone has been diagnosed with a breast tumour. Remember, breast tumours are not breast cancers. “Most of the breast rumours are non-cancerous or non-malignant or what we call as benign tumours. Most of them are non-harmful and will not need treatment as well.” says our Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Sudeshna Ray. 

What happens to our body in Breast Cancer? 

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Breast is made up of a number of structures, glands, lobules which form milk, ducts, fats, elastic tissue, blood vessels. Breast cancer can arise from any of these forms and the name of the breast cancer is given according to the structure it comes from. Example Ductal cancer, Lobular carcinoma, nipple cancer etc.

What are normal breasts like?

It's important to know what a normal breast looks like so that any abnormality can be picked up and clearly understood. Normal breasts can be round or oval, one breast cancer be a little bigger than the other, that is absolutely normal. In the center of the breast there is a nipple protruding and around the nipple there is a dark circle which is callean areola. 

How can you examine yourself? 

Whenever you are touching your breasts for examination, never squeeze it, instead use your four fingers whilst palpating against your chest wall. When you touch you will feel your breast is made up of small lumps especially if it's before your periods, which is normal. 

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Many women fear finding a lump in their breast, but it's important to remember that most lumps are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, any changes in your breasts definitely warrant a visit to your healthcare professional.

Here's what you should watch out for:

These are the characteristic signs and symptoms of breast cancer that you should look out for. 

• Breast Lumps or any masses: A lump is a common symptom, but be aware that breast cancer lumps often have distinct characteristics.They may be hard, painless, and have irregular edges. However, some breast cancer lumps can also be soft, and round, and even cause some discomfort. The key is to be familiar with your own breast tissue and to get any unusual changes checked out by a doctor.
• Skin Changes: Dimpling, puckering, or an "orange peel" texture on the breast skin can be signs of cancer. Like if you see a hole or a pitting in a specific area, or if you see any pittings like the appearance of an orange peel skin, it's a warning sign.
• Nipple Changes: If your nipple turns inward (retraction) or you experience any discharge (bloody or unusual), see a doctor right away. Normal milky discharge is okay for a woman who has breastfed in the last two years. Breast discharge can be clear, it can be little greenish, bloody, whatever the type of discharge it should be evaluated by your doctor. Usually discharge in breast cancer is blood-stained or blackish in colour.
• Persistent Pain: Breast pain or nipple pain that lasts for more than two weeks can be a red flag.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes are part of your immune system. Swollen glands in the armpit or near the collarbone can sometimes be an early warning sign of breast cancer.

Remember, you are not alone. If you notice any changes in your breasts, don't hesitate to consult our Gytree experts for prompt evaluation and assessment of your condition.

Coming out about a cancer diagnosis is no easy feat. There's a natural fear associated with the disease, a fear of the unknown and the potential impact on life. Yet, Hina's message is one of optimism and determination. She assures her fans that she is "strong, determined and fully committed to overcoming this disease." Her words resonate with the fighting spirit that cancer patients need to embrace this challenge.

By openly discussing her battle, she's helping to break down stigmas and encourage women to prioritize their health. We at Gytree wish Hina Khan a speedy recovery and we're sending her immense strength and positivity as she fights this battle. She is an inspiration, and we know she will emerge even stronger!