Breast Cancer

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the breast. It can occur in both men and women, but it is far more common in women. It typically starts in the milk-producing ducts (ductal carcinoma) or in the lobules (lobular carcinoma) of the breast. When these cancerous cells grow, they can spread to other parts of the body, leading to serious health complications.

Types of Breast Cancer

At Vibhavadi Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of various types of breast cancer, including:

• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer that is confined to the ducts and has not spread.

• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type of breast cancer that spreads to surrounding tissues.

• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Cancer that starts in the lobules and may spread to other areas.

• Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare but aggressive form that makes the breast appear red and swollen.

• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A type of breast cancer that does not express certain receptors (estrogen, progesterone, and HER2), making it harder to treat.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer, including:

• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50 years old.

• Family history and genetics: A family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives, increases the risk.

• Hormone levels: Prolonged exposure to estrogen, such as starting menstruation early or entering menopause late, may increase the risk.

• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being overweight or obese can raise the risk.

• Previous breast conditions: Women who have had certain benign breast conditions may have an increased risk.

• Genetic mutations: Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

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Diagnosis and Treatment at Vibhavadi Hospital

Advanced Diagnostic Methods

Vibhavadi Hospital offers a wide range of diagnostic services for early detection and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer:

1. Mammography

• The primary screening tool for detecting breast cancer, especially in women over 40, even in the absence of symptoms.

2. Ultrasound Imaging

• Used to differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, often used alongside mammography.

3. Biopsy

• A biopsy is the definitive test for diagnosing cancer, where a sample of tissue is taken from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope.

4. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

• An advanced imaging technique used to detect cancers that may not be visible in mammograms, especially in women with dense breast tissue.

5. Genetic Testing

• Used for women with a family history of breast cancer to check for genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which may increase the risk.

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Comprehensive Treatment Options at Vibhavadi Hospital

1. Surgery

• Breast-conserving surgery (Lumpectomy): Removal of the tumor along with a small margin of surrounding tissue.

• Mastectomy: Complete removal of one or both breasts, often recommended for larger tumors or if the cancer has spread significantly.

2. Radiation Therapy

• Often used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

3. Chemotherapy

• Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells.

4. Hormone Therapy

• If the cancer cells are hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy can block the body’s ability to produce estrogen or block estrogen from acting on cancer cells.

5. Targeted Therapy

• Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth, making them less harmful to healthy cells.

6. Immunotherapy

• A treatment that helps the body's immune system fight cancer more effectively.

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Why Choose Vibhavadi Hospital for Breast Cancer Care?

1. Experienced Oncology Team

Our highly skilled oncologists, surgeons, and breast cancer specialists provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

2. Comprehensive Care

At Vibhavadi Hospital, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, incorporating medical, surgical, radiation, and psychological support to ensure holistic care.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our cutting-edge imaging technology and advanced treatment options ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

4. Support and Counseling Services

We provide emotional and psychological support to help patients and families cope with the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. This includes counseling, support groups, and patient education programs.

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Appointment and Consultation at Vibhavadi Hospital

How to Schedule an Appointment?

To consult with our Breast Cancer Specialists, book an appointment through:

• Phone Call: Contact our hospital hotline for assistance.

• Online Booking: Visit our official website https://www.vibhavadi.com/th.

• Walk-In Visits: Available at our Cancer Center.

Insurance and Treatment Costs

We accept various health insurance plans and have affordable options for self-paying patients. Our patient service team is available to assist with cost estimates and payment plans.