Breast Cancer —
A Complete Overview.
Everything you need to know about breast cancer — from early warning signs and risk factors to screening, treatment options, and life after diagnosis — explained clearly by Dr. Aditya Sarin.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Every case of breast cancer is different. Please consult Dr. Aditya Sarin or a qualified oncologist for evaluation, diagnosis and a treatment plan specific to your condition.
breast cancer in their lifetime
Most Common Cancer
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide.
5-Year Survival Rate
When detected at Stage I, the 5-year relative survival rate exceeds 90%.
Types of Breast Cancer
Each type has distinct characteristics requiring a personalised treatment approach.
Detection Saves Lives
Regular screening significantly improves outcomes and treatment success.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breast. It occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. If not detected and treated early, these cells can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
Breast cancer can affect both women and men, though it is far more common in women. It is one of the most treatable cancers when identified at an early stage, making awareness, screening, and timely expert consultation critically important.
Types of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is not a single disease. Understanding the specific type is essential to designing the most effective treatment plan. Dr. Aditya Sarin evaluates each case individually to determine the precise type and appropriate course of action.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
A non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are confined to the milk ducts. Highly treatable when caught early.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
The most common type of breast cancer — cancer spreads from the milk ducts into surrounding breast tissue.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Originates in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and can spread to surrounding tissue and other areas of the body.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
An aggressive form that lacks hormone receptors and HER2 protein, requiring specific chemotherapy-based treatment strategies.
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
A type with high levels of HER2 protein that drives rapid cancer growth — highly responsive to targeted HER2 therapies.
Less Common Types
Includes inflammatory breast cancer, Paget's disease, and phyllodes tumours, each requiring specialised evaluation and care.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Many breast cancers are detected before symptoms appear through routine screening. However, being aware of the following warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention can be life-saving.
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area.
- Changes in breast size, shape, or overall appearance.
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), including blood.
- Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or scaling on the breast.
- Persistent or unexplained pain in any part of the breast.
- Nipple inversion or changes in nipple position or appearance.
Causes & Risk Factors
While the exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, several factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing it. Being aware of your risk profile allows for earlier and more targeted screening.
Genetics & Family History
Family history of breast cancer or inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly elevate risk.
Age
Risk increases progressively with age. Women over 50, particularly post-menopausal, are at higher risk.
Hormonal Factors
Early menstruation (before 12), late menopause (after 55), or long-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use.
Lifestyle Factors
Obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are all modifiable risk factors.
Radiation Exposure
Previous radiation therapy to the chest area, particularly before age 30, increases breast cancer risk.
Dense Breast Tissue
Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk and may require additional imaging beyond standard mammography.
Breast Cancer Screening & Early Detection
Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes. When breast cancer is found at an early stage, treatment is more effective, less intensive, and survival rates are significantly higher. The following screening methods are recommended based on individual risk profiles.
Mammography
X-ray imaging of the breast to detect early signs of cancer — often before a lump can be felt. Recommended annually for women aged 40 and above, or earlier for high-risk individuals.
Breast Ultrasound
Used to evaluate lumps or abnormalities detected during mammography or clinical examination. Particularly useful for women with dense breast tissue.
MRI Scan
Recommended for high-risk patients, including BRCA mutation carriers. Provides detailed imaging to detect early-stage breast cancer that may not be visible on mammography.
Self-Breast Examination (SBE)
A simple, regular self-check to notice changes in the breast — including new lumps, skin changes, or nipple abnormalities. Any new or unusual change should be promptly evaluated by a specialist.
Stages of Breast Cancer
Staging describes how far the cancer has spread and directly determines the treatment approach. The most widely used system is the American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM system, which considers tumour size, lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. This staging guidance is current as of 2026.
Survival Rates by Stage
Survival statistics are population averages. They describe outcomes across large groups of patients and do not predict what will happen to any individual patient.
Breast cancer survival rate in the United States
Source: American Cancer Society, Survival Rates for Breast Cancer, based on SEER data for women diagnosed between 2015 and 2021.
Breast cancer survival rate in India
Source: Sathishkumar K, et al., Breast cancer survival in India across 11 geographic areas under the National Cancer Registry Programme, Cancer, 2024, based on 17,331 cases diagnosed between 2012 and 2015. Range: 41.9% in Pasighat to 74.9% in Mizoram.
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Treatment is always tailored to the individual — based on the type, stage, grade, and biological characteristics of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Dr. Aditya Sarin develops a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan for every patient.
Surgery
Lumpectomy (tumor removal) or mastectomy (breast removal) depending on cancer extent and patient choice.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays targeted at cancer cells to destroy remaining tissue and significantly reduce recurrence risk.
Chemotherapy
Drug treatment to kill cancer cells — used before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) to eliminate remaining cells.
Hormone Therapy
Blocks oestrogen or progesterone hormones that fuel hormone receptor-positive breast cancers to prevent regrowth.
Targeted Therapy
Precision drugs that target specific proteins such as HER2, offering highly effective treatment with fewer systemic side effects.
Immunotherapy
Activates the immune system to recognise and fight cancer cells — particularly effective for triple-negative breast cancer.
Latest Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment
Breast cancer treatment has changed meaningfully in the past two years, particularly for HER2 positive and triple negative subtypes. As of 2026, notable developments include the following.
Expanded use of antibody drug conjugates
On May 22, 2026, the FDA approved datopotamab deruxtecan for adults with unresectable or metastatic triple negative breast cancer who are not candidates for PD-1 or PD-L1 immunotherapy.
In the supporting Phase 3 trial, median overall survival was 23.7 months compared with 18.7 months with chemotherapy alone.
Neoadjuvant use of trastuzumab deruxtecan
On May 15, 2026, the FDA approved this antibody drug conjugate for use before surgery in Stage II or Stage III HER2 positive early breast cancer, in addition to its existing post-surgery uses.
Source: FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) — FDA breast cancer update, June 2026.
A new oral hormone therapy option
On May 1, 2026, the FDA approved vepdegestrant, a selective estrogen receptor degrader, for advanced or metastatic breast cancer with an ESR1 mutation, alongside a companion diagnostic test to identify eligible patients.
Source: OncLive — FDA Flashback, Breast Cancer Decisions and News From May 2026.
Expanded combinations for HR+, HER2+ disease
On June 24, 2026, the FDA approved palbociclib combined with trastuzumab, with or without pertuzumab, for maintenance treatment of patients whose tumours are driven by both hormone receptor and HER2 signalling.
Source: Targeted Oncology — June 2026 in Oncology, A Look Back at FDA Approvals and Decisions.
Living with Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis affects not just physical health but emotional well-being and quality of life. Comprehensive support — from rehabilitation to counselling — is an integral part of care at every stage of the journey.
Rehabilitation Programs
Physiotherapy and specialised lymphedema management to restore physical function and comfort after treatment.
Counselling & Support Groups
Professional emotional support and peer groups for patients and families navigating diagnosis and recovery.
Nutrition & Lifestyle
Personalised dietary advice and exercise plans to rebuild strength, support recovery, and reduce recurrence risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
"Early detection is the single most powerful tool we have against breast cancer. A few minutes of awareness can mean a lifetime of difference."
— Dr. Aditya Sarin, Medical OncologistFrequently Asked Questions about Breast Cancer
What is the first sign of breast cancer?
Can breast cancer be cured?
At what age should breast cancer screening start?
Is breast cancer hereditary?
Does a lump in the breast always mean cancer?
How is the stage of breast cancer determined?
What is the difference between chemotherapy and targeted therapy?
Why is breast cancer survival lower in India than in the United States?
What is the best treatment approach for Breast Cancer in Delhi?
Why Trust Dr. Aditya Sarin for Breast Cancer Care?
ESMO Board Certified · Harvard Trained · Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi
Experienced Breast Cancer Specialist
ESMO Board Certified oncologist with advanced training in precision oncology and cancer genomics from Harvard Medical School.
Advanced Treatment Options
Access to the latest targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and personalised treatment protocols tailored to your specific breast cancer type.
Comprehensive Support
Personalised treatment plans, emotional counselling, rehabilitation, and end-to-end support for patients and their families.
Affordable & Accessible Care
High-quality oncology care with insurance assistance, flexible appointment options, and both in-person and remote consultations.
Early Detection Saves Lives
If you've noticed a change, received a diagnosis, or simply want expert guidance on your breast health, speak with Dr. Aditya Sarin — a trusted breast cancer specialist in New Delhi.
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