Breast cancer can be detected before it can be diagnosed with the help of sophisticated equipment besides other advancements like breast conservation and oncoplastic surgery. These were the thoughts shared by experts on the sidelines of a medical symposium on 'Breast Cancer, An International Perspective', besides sharing knowledge on the latest techniques in breast cancer management hosted at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai.
The symposium which primarily focused on maximizing cure and optimizing body image also marked the commemoration of ‘World Breast Cancer Awareness month’ by hosting world experts in breast cancer from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA. The MD Anderson team’s visit is part of an ongoing consulting relationship with Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital that capitalises on MD Anderson’s unique expertise in the delivery of high quality, multidisciplinary cancer care. The team consists of Dr Ashish Kamat, Dr Farzin Goravanchi, Dr Anthony Lucci and Dr Anuja Jhingran.
Speaking on the sidelines of the symposium Dr Vijay Haribhakti, head, department of oncology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital said, “A significant percentage of breast cancer patients in India comes to us at an advanced stage. This compromises disease control and quality of life, and leads to increased mortality. The key to effective control is early diagnosis and prompt, multi-disciplinary treatment, which results in improved outcomes and maximizing cure. Besides making breast conservation and oncoplastic surgery accessible to majority of patients, immediate reconstruction is also provided to patients when mastectomy is considered mandatory."
He further informed, "In the area of radiotherapy which is an integral part of treatment, the hospital is launching the first ever ‘heart-sparing’ 4D radiotherapy technique in the city. In addition, we offer the entire range of systemic therapy and rehabilitation, which makes the 345-bed super-speciality hospital a one-stop destination for patients afflicted with breast cancer.”
MD Anderson, ranked as the number one hospital for cancer care in the United States, has collaborated with Reliance Foundation Hospital to develop a robust oncology programme at the hospital in Mumbai. MD Anderson is providing guidance on a range of clinical areas, including programme development, staffing, technology and facility recommendations.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston ranks as one of the world's most respected centres focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. The centre is one of 44 comprehensive cancer centres designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). It is ranked number 1 for cancer care in the US News and World Report’s Best Hospital’s survey and receives a cancer centre support grant from the NCI of the National Institutes of Health.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among urban Indian women. The most worrisome fact is it is now more common in the 30's and 40's and almost 48 per cent patients are below 50. In addition, cancers in the young tend to be more aggressive.