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Breast Cancer Treatment at Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)
Breast Cancer Treatment at Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)
Overview of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, predominantly affecting women, though it can also occur in men. It develops when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. These cancerous cells can spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, making early detection and treatment essential. At Konkan Cancer Centre, we provide advanced breast cancer care supported by a team of dedicated oncologists, surgeons, and specialists who use the latest medical technologies for personalized and precise treatment.
How Does Breast Cancer Develop?
Breast cancer begins in the breast tissue, typically in the ducts (which carry milk) or the lobules (glands that produce milk). The cells mutate and begin dividing uncontrollably, forming lumps or masses. If not detected early, these malignant cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other organs via the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Understanding this biological behavior is key to choosing effective treatment pathways, which Konkan Cancer Centre specializes in offering.
Causes & Risk Factors
Breast cancer can be caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The most common risk factors include:
Genetic Mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations significantly raise the lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Family History: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer increases your risk.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of HRT has been linked with an increased risk.
Radiation Exposure: Previous exposure to chest radiation, especially during childhood or adolescence.
Lifestyle Factors: Lack of exercise, poor diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, and smoking.
Reproductive History: Early menstruation, late menopause, and having no children or first pregnancy after age 30.
Knowing these factors can help in developing a personal risk-reduction strategy and is a key component of patient education at Konkan Cancer Centre.
Types of Breast Cancer
At Konkan Cancer Centre, we diagnose and treat all types of breast cancer, including:
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where cells remain confined within the ducts.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer, spreading beyond ducts into breast tissue.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Begins in the lobules and invades surrounding tissue.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): Lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors; often more aggressive.
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Grows due to overexpression of HER2 protein; treatable with targeted therapies.
Common Signs & Symptoms
A hard, painless lump or thickening in the breast
Changes in breast shape or size
Skin changes like dimpling, redness, or scaling
Nipple discharge, especially if bloody
Inverted nipple or itching
Swelling or lumps in the underarm area
What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms?
If you notice any of these signs, consult a breast cancer specialist at KCH immediately. Timely diagnosis dramatically improves survival rates.
When Should You See a Specialist?
You should seek specialist care at Konkan Cancer Centre if:
You detect a lump or any changes in your breast
You have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
You are experiencing persistent breast pain or discharge
You’ve had an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound
Our breast cancer team includes oncologists, radiologists, breast surgeons, and genetic counselors working together for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Diagnostic Tests for Breast Cancer
Mammography: A low-dose X-ray used to detect abnormal growths in the breast, even before symptoms appear.
Ultrasound: Helps differentiate solid masses from fluid-filled cysts.
Biopsy (Core Needle or Surgical): Removes a sample of breast tissue for pathological analysis. This is the gold standard.
MRI: Provides detailed imaging, especially in dense breast tissue.
Genetic Testing: Evaluates BRCA and other gene mutations to assess risk and tailor treatment.
Why is Biopsy the Gold Standard?
A biopsy allows direct observation of breast tissue under a microscope, confirming whether a mass is cancerous and what type it is—guiding precise treatment.
What to Do After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with breast cancer is emotionally and physically overwhelming. At Konkan Cancer Centre, we guide you through every step:
Get a Second Opinion: Our experts ensure that your diagnosis is accurate and complete.
Understand Your Stage & Type: Treatment depends on tumor size, location, and receptor status.
Meet the Multidisciplinary Team: Oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and counselors work together for personalized care.
Start a Tailored Treatment Plan: Based on your age, health, cancer stage, and preferences.
Treatment Options at Konkan Cancer Centre
Surgery:
Lumpectomy – removal of the tumor, preserving most of the breast
Mastectomy – removal of one or both breasts
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – evaluates cancer spread
Radiation Therapy: Targets and destroys remaining cancer cells post-surgery
Chemotherapy: Kills cancer cells throughout the body, especially in high-risk or aggressive cancers
Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormone receptors in estrogen- or progesterone-positive cancers
Targeted Therapy: HER2-positive breast cancers respond well to drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin)
Immunotherapy: Stimulates the immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells, often used in TNBC
Gold Standard Treatment
In early-stage breast cancer, surgery followed by radiation therapy is the gold standard. In HER2-positive or hormone-sensitive tumors, targeted or hormone therapy significantly improves outcomes. Your treatment is tailored at KCC for the best possible results.
Who Treats Breast Cancer at Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)?
At Konkan Cancer Centre, our breast cancer team includes:
Medical Oncologists
Surgical Oncologists
Radiation Oncologists
Breast Radiologists
Pathologists
Genetic Counselors
Rehabilitation Experts
This multidisciplinary approach ensures coordinated, compassionate, and cutting-edge cancer care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, but about 5–10% of cases are due to genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Mammography, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams are vital tools for early detection.
Treatment duration varies, from weeks to months, depending on the cancer type and stage.
Yes. Many patients go on to live full lives with regular monitoring and support.
We provide counseling, nutrition advice, physiotherapy, post-treatment follow-ups, and survivorship programs.
Get Expert Breast Cancer Care at Konkan Cancer Centre
At Konkan Cancer Centre, we are committed to delivering world-class, affordable, and compassionate breast cancer care. Whether you need a second opinion, a diagnosis, or comprehensive treatment, our team is here for you. Book an appointment today to begin your journey to healing.
