Breast cancer progresses in four stages. During the initial two stages, symptoms may not be very noticeable. Many patients seek cancer treatment when the disease has already reached stage 3 or 4, making treatment more challenging. Doctors express deep concern over the delayed response, wondering why patients wait until the condition becomes critical. Detecting breast cancer early is crucial, as it allows for more effective and less complicated treatment options.

A recent research article in the Natural Cancer Surgery Journal highlights collaborative efforts from leading breast cancer surgeons in Kolkata. Led by Dr Soumen Das, this study aimed to unravel the reasons behind patients seeking treatment at later stages. Esteemed cancer specialists, including Oncologist Radharaman Mandal from Saroj Gupta Cancer Hospital Thakurpukur, Dr Abhimanyu Basu from PG Hospital, and Devendra Sarkar, joined hands in this initiative.

The research found that approximately 70% of cancer patients experience a secondary delay. This delay indicates that they do not commence treatment on the day of their initial doctor visit. The findings shed light on the critical need for raising awareness and promoting early intervention in breast cancer cases.

A dedicated initiative has been launched, particularly targeting women in rural areas, to proactively prevent delays in breast cancer diagnosis. Specialized training courses are provided to doctors to enhance their skills in accurately diagnosing the condition and minimizing any potential delays.

The best breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata recommends women to be mindful about any changes in the shape or texture of the breasts. Any swelling or lumps in or around the breasts must be brought to a doctor’s attention for further evaluation and treatment.

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Diagnosis

The following screening tests are done to detect the presence of colon cancer:

Colonoscopy: The most commonly used screening test for colon cancer is a colonoscopy. It involves examining the rectum and colon for polyps or signs of cancer. This procedure is carried out by inserting a colonoscope through the rectum into the colon for close visualisation.

Faecal immunochemical test (FIT): It helps to identify hidden blood in your stool. Pathologists analyse samples of your stool for blood that might not be visible through the naked eye.

Guaiac-based faecal occult blood test (gFOBT): Blood vessels near the surface of larger polyps or cancers are susceptible to damage during the passage of stool. They often rupture and release small amounts of blood during defecation. This test uses a chemical (guaiac) to detect the presence of occult blood, which could be an indication of polyps or colorectal cancer

Faecal DNA test: This test examines your stool for indications of genetic mutations.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Doctors use a flexible instrument known as a sigmoidoscope to closely examine the inside of the colon and rectum.

Virtual colonoscopy: It is an X-ray procedure designed to identify polyps, tumours, and ulcers (sores) in your colon and rectum.

Treatments

The best cancer surgeon in Kolkata conducts the following surgeries to treat colon cancer, depending on its severity.

Polypectomy: This is a surgical procedure where cancerous polyps, if detected during a colonoscopy, are removed. There are multiple ways to perform polypectomy.

To eliminate small polyps, doctors opt for biopsy forceps. For extracting larger polyps with a diameter of more than 2 centimetres, a snare polypectomy is conducted. In this case, the doctor loops a thin wire around the base of the polyp and utilises heat to sever the growth. Any remaining tissue or stalk is subsequently cauterised.

Partial colectomy: Also known as colon resection surgery, this procedure involves removing only the section of the colon that is cancerous. After it is eliminated, doctors connect the healthy tissues in the vicinity by conducting an anastomosis.

Surgical resection with colostomy: Surgical resection with colostomy is similar to a colectomy, where cancer surgeons remove the part containing a tumour. However, there are few healthy colon tissues left after surgery. Therefore, in such cases, a colostomy is performed. The surgeon creates an opening known as a stoma in the skin of your belly. The colon is then connected to the outer wall of your belly. The stool passes through the stoma and is collected in a drainage bag.

If you are experiencing abdominal pain, blood in your stool, vomiting or bloating without any signs of relief, you must reach out to the best cancer doctor in Kolkata for expert guidance. Early detection and intervention are extremely crucial in preventing the progression of colon cancer.

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• Ensure Adequate Rest: Following your surgery, it’s crucial to allow your body to rest for proper healing. Breast cancer survivors must get a sound sleep of 8 to 9 hours every day. If needed, they can also take short naps during the daytime. It’s also important to avoid any strenuous activity that could lead to fatigue or discomfort for a few weeks post-surgery.

• Start Moving: Prolonged bed rest during the post-surgery recovery period leads to a decline in physical mobility. To return to a state of flexibility, strength, and overall fitness, the patient needs to perform gentle exercises like rotating the neck and moving the torso from side to side to enhance recovery.

• Exercises After Surgery: Consult with the best breast cancer doctor regarding when to start engaging in daily stretching routines to regain your mobility. Usually, the doctor recommends the following exercises:

1. Arm Lifts: Whether seated on a chair or standing, gently raise both arms above your head while keeping your elbows close to your ears. Hold this position for five seconds and repeat the same motion.
2. Wall climbing: Position yourself facing a wall with your feet close to it. Extend your arms forward and place your hands against the surface. Slowly move your fingertips upward until the arm is fully stretched. Then gradually descend your fingers. Perform this exercise for 10 times, progressively extending your reach higher with each repetition.

• Start practicing Yoga: Incorporating yoga into your routine is a beneficial step. Doctors recommend deep breathing techniques like pranayama for relaxation and enhancing blood circulation. Take deep, slow breaths, hold for four seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth for four more seconds.

• Eat Healthy: During your recovery phase, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for improving your strength, aiding the healing process, and fortifying your immune system. Opt for a well-balanced meal plan featuring lean protein sources, whole grains, as well as plenty of fruits and vegetables. Moreover, drinking adequate water is essential for eliminating toxins and maintaining proper hydration levels throughout the day.

• Take Care of Your Skin: In the weeks following your surgery, it’s paramount to handle your skin with care. Do not use any cosmetic products that can potentially harm the treated area, without consulting a doctor. Consider applying gentle ointments or moisturizing lotions to keep the area well-hydrated. Furthermore, opt for loose-fitting clothing and cold showers, ensuring that your skin remains cool and comfortable during your recovery.

The journey to recovery following breast cancer surgery is often a challenging process. However, by following these tips as suggested by an experienced breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata, you can pave the way for smooth and swift healing.

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Tips for recovery after gallbladder cancer surgery:

Follow these recovery tips by a doctor specializing in gallbladder cancer treatment in Kolkata.

• Follow Postoperative Instructions: After gallbladder cancer surgery, it is vital to adhere to your surgeon’s postoperative instructions. This may include guidelines on wound care, activity levels, and dietary restrictions. Strictly following these instructions will help prevent complications and promote a smooth recovery.

• Manage Pain and Discomfort: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Your doctor will provide pain management strategies, which may include pain medications. Ensure that you take your prescribed medications as directed to control pain and improve your overall comfort.

• Gradual Return to Activity: While it’s essential to rest and allow your body to heal, gradual movement and light activity can promote circulation and reduce the risk of complications like blood clots.

• Nutritional Support: Gallbladder surgery can affect your digestion and tolerance to certain foods. Initially, you may be placed on a restricted diet, but your surgeon will provide guidance on when and how to reintroduce different foods. A dietitian will help you create a diet plan tailored to your needs.

• Wound Care: Proper wound care is vital in order to prevent infections. Keep your surgical incisions clean and dry as instructed by your healthcare team. Monitor for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge, and report them promptly.

• Monitor for Complications: Be vigilant about any potential complications, such as fever, increasing pain, jaundice, or changes in bowel habits. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms.

• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your oncologist. These visits are essential to monitor your progress, discuss any concerns, and plan for any necessary adjuvant treatments.

By following these recovery tips by the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata and staying committed to your healing process, you can enhance your chances of a successful recovery after gallbladder cancer surgery.

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Diagnosis of Lobular Breast Cancer:

• Clinical Examination and History: According to the best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata, the diagnostic process often begins with a thorough physical examination and gathering the patient’s medical history. Any noticeable changes, lumps, or irregularities in the breast are noted during this evaluation.

• Imaging Studies: Mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are instrumental in detecting abnormalities within the breast tissue. Mammography remains a standard screening tool, but sometimes, additional imaging like MRI might be needed for accurate diagnosis, especially in cases of dense breast tissue or when multiple lesions are suspected.

• Biopsy: A biopsy is the definitive step to confirm the presence of cancer. A tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area and sent to a pathologist for analysis. In lobular breast cancer, the biopsy helps determine the type of cancer cells present and their specific characteristics.

• Histological Examination: The tissue obtained from the biopsy is examined under a microscope to evaluate the appearance and structure of the cancer cells. Lobular breast cancer cells have a distinctive appearance, appearing in a single-file pattern.

• Hormone Receptor Status: Hormone receptor status testing is crucial to determine if the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen and progesterone. Hormone receptor-positive tumors often respond well to hormonal therapies.

• HER2 Status: HER2 testing is done to identify if the cancer cells overexpress the HER2 protein, which helps determine targeted treatment options.

Treatment of Lobular Breast Cancer:

• Surgery: Surgery is a primary treatment for lobular breast cancer. Options include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). The choice depends on factors like the size and stage of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health, says the best breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata.

• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may follow a lumpectomy to destroy the remaining cancer cells and lower the risk of recurrence. It involves targeted radiation to the affected breast.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be recommended to destroy cancer cells that might have spread beyond the breast. The choice of drugs and the treatment duration depend on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.

• Hormonal Therapy: Hormone receptor-positive lobular breast cancer may be treated with hormonal therapies like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. These drugs help block the effects of estrogen, which stimulates the growth of cancerous cells.

• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin) may be used for HER2-positive lobular breast cancer. These drugs specifically target the HER2 protein, inhibiting cancer cell growth.

Early detection and a multidisciplinary approach have a significant role in effectively treating lobular breast cancer. Regular screenings, self-examinations, and timely medical consultations are vital steps in the fight against breast cancer. If you suspect any abnormalities in your breast health, reach out to the best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata to discuss your concerns.

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Facts about gallbladder cancer

• Types of Gallbladder Cancer: The most common type of gallbladder cancer is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the glandular cells. Other rare types include squamous cell carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, and adenosquamous carcinoma.

• Risk Factors: Certain factors increase the risk of developing the disease, including age (over 65), having a history of gallstones, chronic gallbladder inflammation, obesity, and genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome.

• Signs and Symptoms: Gallbladder cancer often doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, common symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, appetite loss, and fever.

• Diagnostic Tests: If gallbladder cancer is suspected, various tests may be done to make a diagnosis. These may include blood tests, imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, and biopsy to examine a piece of tissue under a microscope.

• Stages of Gallbladder Cancer: It is staged from 0 to IV based on its spread. Early-stage cancers are often localized to the gallbladder, while later stages indicate the spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or distant organs.

• Treatment Options: Gallbladder cancer treatment depends on various factors, including the stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Surgery for gallbladder removal, called cholecystectomy, is the most common treatment. Other options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

• Prognosis and Survival Rates: Early detection can improve survival outcomes. Hence, it’s important to seek consultation with the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata who can diagnose your symptoms and offer the best treatment for the condition.

• Prevention: Certain preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing gallbladder cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and treating gallbladder conditions promptly can help lower the chances of developing this cancer.

It is a serious condition that requires early detection and appropriate treatment. Understanding the key facts about this disease can help in its prevention, prompt diagnosis, and effective management. If you experience any concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata for proper evaluation and guidance.

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Symptoms:

• Breast Lump or Mass: The most common symptom of IDC is the presence of a new lump or mass in the breast. This lump is often painless but can be tender or painful in some cases. It is usually firm and irregularly shaped.
• Change in Breast Size or Shape: IDC can cause the affected breast to change in size or shape. This change may be noticeable as one breast appears larger or different in shape compared to the other.
• Skin Changes: The breast skin may develop certain changes, including dimpling or puckering.
• Nipple Changes: Changes in the areola and nipple can occur, such as retraction (pulling inward), inversion (turning inward), or scaling and flaking of the skin around the nipple.
• Nipple Discharge: A bloody or clear discharge from the nipple, especially when it occurs without squeezing or stimulation, can be a symptom of IDC.
• Redness or Rash: The skin over the breast may become red, swollen, or develop a rash that does not go away.
• Swelling or Thickening: Some people with IDC may experience swelling or thickening of the breast tissue, even without a noticeable lump.
• Pain: While IDC is often painless, some individuals may experience breast pain or discomfort, particularly if the cancer is advanced.

Best treatments (Surgical interventions):

Here, the best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata has listed the treatments of invasive ductal carcinoma.

1. Lumpectomy: This is a breast-conserving surgery where only the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it are removed. It is usually followed by radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
2. Mastectomy: In some cases, a mastectomy may be recommended. This surgery removes the entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola. Depending on the stage of cancer, a single or double mastectomy may be performed.
3. Sentinel lymph node biopsy: This procedure helps determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. The surgeon removes the sentinel lymph node, the first lymph node that the cancerous cells are likely to reach.
4. Axillary lymph node dissection: If the sentinel lymph node biopsy shows that cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, an axillary lymph node dissection may be performed. This involves the removal of several lymph nodes from the armpit area.
5. Breast reconstruction: Following a mastectomy, breast reconstruction may be an option. This procedure aims to restore the shape and appearance of the breast. Reconstruction could be done using breast implants or natural tissue taken from other parts of the body.

It is important to note that the choice of surgical treatment depends on various factors, such as the stage of cancer, the size of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. A comprehensive evaluation by the breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for the condition.

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5 signs that your gallbladder cancer has advanced:

• Yellowing of eyes and skin: One of the warning signs that gallbladder cancer has reached an advanced stage is the onset of jaundice. When the cancerous tumor blocks the bile ducts, it causes the buildup of bilirubin in your bloodstream. This results in the yellowing of the eyes and skin. So, if you notice such symptoms, consult the top doctor of gallbladder cancer treatment in Kolkata.

• Sudden weight loss: Weight loss without any apparent reason can be indicative of advanced gallbladder cancer. When the cancer progresses, it causes unexplained or sudden weight loss due to its impact on the body’s metabolism. Hence, if you experience a significant loss of weight without making any dietary changes or exercising, reach out to a gallbladder cancer specialist.

• Abdominal discomfort or pain: When you are in advanced stage, you are likely to experience persistent abdominal pain. The pain can either originate in the upper right side of the abdomen or radiate backward. Therefore, it is of vital importance to seek medical attention if you continually experience abdominal pain without any effective response to over-the-counter pain medications.

• Nausea and loss of appetite: As gallbladder cancer advances, it can affect the digestive system, causing chronic nausea and appetite loss. These symptoms might arise due to the impact of the tumor on the digestive ability and flow of bile. The best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata can assess these symptoms and determine the extent of the spread of cancer.

• Abdominal distension and swelling: An advanced stage of gallbladder cancer causes the buildup of fluid in one’s abdomen. This can cause it to swell up and appear distended. Additionally, symptoms that you might experience due to abdominal swelling are difficulty breathing and increased discomfort.

• Pale stools and dark urine: When bile flow gets obstructed because of advanced gallbladder cancer, it causes changes in the color of stool and urine. For instance, your urine color might turn darker, and your stools become grayish.

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, consult with the gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata. They will assess the signs and determine whether your gallbladder cancer has advanced.

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Ways to lower the chances of developing breast cancer:

The best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata has discussed a few tips to eliminate the chances of developing the disease.

• Maintain your weight: If you maintain a healthy weight, your chance of getting breast cancer will decrease. Doctors recommend this tip as most patients who are overweight develop the malignant condition, especially after menopause.

• Eat fruits and vegetables: Supplement your diet with leafy green vegetables and different kinds of fruits to strengthen your immune system, which will enable it to safeguard your health and prevent the growth of cancer cells.

• Be active: It is said that women who exercise for at least thirty minutes each day are at a lower risk of developing breast cancer. Moreover, exercising regularly will also keep your weight in check.

• Quit Smoking: Smoking can result in fifteen types of cancers, including breast cancer. Hence, if you smoke, try quitting it to reduce your chances of developing any kind of malignancy.

• Avoid birth control pills: Birth control pills play a significant role in the development of one’s breast cancer. So, doctors advise women to reduce the intake of birth control pills from the age of thirty-five, as the risk increases with age. Moreover, the chances of developing the condition are significantly higher in women who smoke.

• Stress management: Stress is another cause of developing breast cancer. Hence, doctors suggest managing your stress levels by practicing deep breathing, yoga, walking, performing meditation and exercises.

• Limit your alcohol intake: The more you drink alcohol, the more you put yourself at the risk of breast cancer. So, if you are a heavy drinker, work on reducing your alcohol intake. This will help you to gradually decrease your chances of developing the condition and quitting this habit altogether.

• Go for regular screenings: It’s important to consult with the best breast cancer doctor and go for regular screenings like mammograms. This can help in early detection and allow the doctor to provide the most effective treatment.

Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself against breast cancer. Reach out to the best breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata if you get diagnosed with the disease for early treatment and preventing complications.

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Tests to Diagnose Gallbladder Cancer

• Biopsy: For a biopsy, your doctor will remove a small amount of tissue from your gallbladder. During the examination, a pathologist will see whether cancer is present and analyze the samples. If the test reveals malignancy, your doctor will immediately begin your gallbladder cancer treatment.

• ERCP: An ERCP test is often recommended to diagnose disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Usually, this test is prescribed for diagnosing bile duct cancer. However, your doctor might also suggest this examination if they suspect that your gallbladder cancer has spread and blocked the bile ducts.

• Blood tests: The best cancer doctor might take some samples of your blood to check for abnormal levels of bilirubin and other elements. As stated above, gallbladder cancer can sometimes block the bile ducts with a tumor. This can result in higher levels of bilirubin in the blood.

• Endoscopic Ultrasonography: An endoscope is put inside the mouth after sedation so that it can reach the intestine and stomach. This test is done to check for tumors and to guide the biopsy procedure.

• MRI: An MRI can check whether the cancer has spread beyond the gallbladder to the other body parts. It will also help to measure the size of the tumor. Moreover, a dye known as contrast medium is given prior to the scan to locate the mass inside the body.

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses sound waves for the purpose of creating pictures of your internal organs, like the gallbladder. If tumors are present, they generate echoes during the test, which are differentiated from the echoes generated by normal, healthy tissues. By determining the sound waves, your doctor will be able to find out the location of the mass.

• Laparoscopy: It is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to check your gallbladder by making a small incision in the abdomen.

If you experience the common symptoms of gallbladder cancer, like persistent abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting, and constant fever, you must reach out to the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata. They will thoroughly evaluate your condition, prescribe the required tests, and confirm whether or not you have gallbladder cancer.

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