Hina Khan’s recent revelation about being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer has deeply affected her fans.
As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a fashion icon, Hina has received an outpouring of support from her fellow actors and co-stars on Instagram. Pooja Gor, an actor, responded to Hina’s post with a message of love, healing, and strength, expressing her prayers for Hina’s quick recovery.
Breast cancer is becoming more prevalent among younger women, underscoring the importance of regular screenings and early detection. It is crucial for women to be proactive in monitoring their breast health to catch any abnormalities early on.
The development of breast cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast, leading to the formation of a tumor. While advancing age is a known risk factor, women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s can also be affected by this disease. Younger women may encounter challenges in detecting breast cancer promptly due to limited screening guidelines and insufficient awareness of their individual risk factors. Therefore, it is essential to be vigilant for the early warning signs of breast cancer to seek timely medical attention.
One of the primary indicators of breast cancer is the presence of a noticeable lump or thickened area in the breast or underarm. This abnormality may feel distinct from the surrounding tissue and persist over time.
Changes in breast size, shape, or symmetry that are unexplained should be closely monitored. These alterations could include swelling, shrinkage, or asymmetry unrelated to menstrual cycles.
Although breast pain is typically not associated with breast cancer, any new or persistent discomfort in the breast or nipple should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Redness, dimpling, puckering, or scaliness of the breast skin, resembling the texture of an orange peel, may signal underlying issues that require immediate investigation.
Any changes in the appearance of the nipple, such as inversion, retraction, or abnormal discharge, should be assessed by a healthcare provider to rule out potential breast health concerns.
A family history of breast cancer, particularly with mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can elevate the risk of developing the disease. Previous radiation therapy to the chest or breasts, such as for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, also increases the chances of developing breast cancer later in life. Factors such as early menstruation, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and oral contraceptive use can impact one’s risk as well. Additionally, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and leading a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Regular self-breast examination (SBE) is an important practice for women to detect any changes in their breast tissue. It involves a systematic examination of the breasts to look and feel for any abnormalities, such as lumps, thickening, or changes in size or shape. Begin by standing in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed at your sides, visually inspecting both breasts for any changes in skin texture, nipple position, or swelling. Following this, raise one arm and use the opposite hand to gently palpate the breast tissue in a circular motion, covering the entire breast and armpit area. Pay attention to any areas that feel different from the surrounding tissue or are tender.
