Name: Cancer Can’t Wait For Peace: Oncologist Dr Varun Goel Shares How War Disrupts Life-Saving Treatment
Uploaded: 2026-04-01T18:40:12+05:30
Duration: 3 min 33 s
Description: Cancer Can’t Wait For Peace: Oncologist Dr Varun Goel Shares How War Disrupts Life-Saving Treatment

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Cancer Can’t Wait For Peace: Oncologist Dr Varun Goel Shares How War Disrupts Life-Saving Treatment

cancer can’t wait for peace: oncologist dr varun goel shares how war disrupts life-saving treatment

Norah O’Donnell’s Skin Cancer Journey: Her Dermatologist Warns Against Tanning Beds & Sunburns

norah o’donnell’s skin cancer journey: her dermatologist warns against tanning beds & sunburns

Can Yogurt And Kefir Help Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss? New Review Explains

can yogurt and kefir help prevent age-related muscle loss? new review explains

World Polio Day: Why India Must Stay Vigilant Despite Being Polio-Free

world polio day: why india must stay vigilant despite being polio-free

Climate Change And Gut Health: How Heat, Drought And Unsafe Water Raise Risks, Global Experts Warn

climate change and gut health: how heat, drought and unsafe water raise risks, global experts warn

COVID-19

covid

covid 19 vaccine

coronavirus

Ex-CDC vaccine advisor Dr Paul Offit discusses vaccine safety, COVID-19 vaccine concerns, scientific evidence and misinformation, sharing expert insights from paediatrics and vaccine education.

Why Can You Still Get COVID After Vaccination? Ex-CDC Vaccine Advisor Explains

why can you still get covid after vaccination? ex-cdc vaccine advisor explains

Asparagus Extract May Improve Sleep Quality, But More Research Is Needed

asparagus extract may improve sleep quality, but more research is needed

Lancet Study Finds Air Pollution & Chemical Exposures Could Add To South Asia's Diabetes & Heart Disease Burden

lancet study finds air pollution & chemical exposures could add to south asia's diabetes & heart disease burden

FSSAI Questions Complan's ‘2X Faster Growth’ Claim; Flags Nestlé, Abbott And Nutricia's Infant Formula

fssai questions complan's ‘2x faster growth’ claim; flags nestlé, abbott and nutricia's infant formula

dietary supplements

supplements hidden dangers

supplements fake claims

how to choose safe protein

supplements

Are dietary supplements safe? An expert explains supplement risks, counterfeit products, protein powder testing, vitamin deficiencies, and why nutrition, exercise and sleep matter.

Dietary Supplements: Hidden Dangers, Fake Claims & How to Choose Safe Protein | Expert Explains

dietary supplements: hidden dangers, fake claims & how to choose safe protein | expert explains

Maternal Immunisation: The Forgotten Half of Protecting a Baby's Health

maternal immunisation: the forgotten half of protecting a baby's health

Rising AQI In Delhi-NCR: Doctors Warn Of Lung And Heart Risks As Pollution Builds

rising aqi in delhi-ncr: doctors warn of lung and heart risks as pollution builds

flu vaccine guide

best time to get vaccinated

flu vaccine side effects

flu vaccine

vaccine

When is the best time to get a flu vaccine? Doctors Dr. Bhawna Malik and Dr. Mohit Bhardwaj explain why October is ideal for flu vaccination, who needs it most, the vaccine schedule for children and seniors, annual flu shots, possible side effects, and precautions to protect your family this flu season.

Flu Vaccine Guide: Best Time to Get Vaccinated & Side Effects | Doctors Explain

flu vaccine guide: best time to get vaccinated & side effects | doctors explain

Egg Freezing Is Rising, But Are We Freezing Fertility or Buying Time?

egg freezing is rising, but are we freezing fertility or buying time?

Is ‘Ozempic Face’ Influencing The Beauty Industry? Global Cosmetic Brand Highlights A New Trend Amid GLP-1 Boom

is ‘ozempic face’ influencing the beauty industry? global cosmetic brand highlights a new trend amid glp-1 boom

donald trump

aspirin

aspirin dose

aspirin risks

aspirin side effects

Donald Trump says he takes aspirin daily, but should you? Doctors explain who may need aspirin, the right dose, bleeding risks, stomach ulcers, kidney damage and drug interactions. Learn why aspirin is not a one-size-fits-all medicine and why you should never start daily aspirin without consulting your doctor.

Donald Trump Takes Aspirin Daily: Should You? Doctors Explain Dose, Risks & Side Effects

donald trump takes aspirin daily: should you? doctors explain dose, risks & side effects

Can Holding Your Urine During Long Office Hours or Traffic Jams Affect Urinary Health?

Health And Me Desk

can-holding-your-urine-during-long-office-hours-or-traffic-jams-affect-urinary-health

Urinary Health

Urine

urinary tract infection

kidney stones

Holding urine occasionally, such as during a long meeting or traffic jam, is generally not harmful for most healthy adults. However, repeatedly delaying urination for extended periods may affect urinary health, particularly in people who are prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or have existing bladder problems.<br /><br /><h2>What Happens When You Hold Urine for Too Long?<br /></h2><br />When urine remains in the bladder for too long, it can become uncomfortable and may contribute to bladder overdistension. In some individuals, particularly those with underlying urinary retention or bladder dysfunction, regularly postponing urination may worsen existing problems. <br /><br />While holding urine does not directly cause a <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/5-common-gynaecological-conditions-you-should-know-about-article-151529274" data-type="tilCustomLink">UTI</a> in every case, incomplete bladder emptying can increase the risk of infection.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/are-people-with-ckd-at-higher-risk-of-dementia-and-cognitive-problems-article-156251954" data-type="tilCustomLink">Are People With CKD At Higher Risk Of Dementia And Cognitive Problems?</a><br /><br /><h2>Why You Should Not Reduce Water Intake to Avoid Bathroom Break<br /></h2><br />People who work long hours or commute frequently should try to respond to the urge to urinate rather than routinely suppressing it.<br /><br />Maintaining adequate hydration is equally important, as deliberately drinking less water to avoid bathroom breaks can lead to concentrated urine and may increase the risk of certain urinary problems like concentrated urine leading to crystallization and stone formation.<br /><br /><h2>When Should You Seek Medical Advice?<br /></h2><br /><br />      <div type="Youtube" id="GOf8TpJTrPw" title="Acne Causes, Diet, Stress &amp; Common Myths | When Should You See a Dermatologist?" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GOf8TpJTrPw/mqdefault.jpg"><url><![CDATA[https://youtu.be/GOf8TpJTrPw?si=1AzSZ-zonvWl73ia]]></url></div><br /><br /><br />If you experience persistent urgency, burning during urination, lower abdominal discomfort, difficulty passing urine or blood in the urine, seek medical advice. Developing regular bathroom habits and ensuring convenient access to washrooms can help support long-term urinary health.<br /><br />It is also important to recognise when urinary symptoms may indicate a more serious problem. Inability to pass urine despite a strong urge, particularly when accompanied by severe lower abdominal pain or swelling, requires urgent medical attention. <br /><br />Fever, chills or pain in the back or side alongside urinary symptoms may indicate a kidney infection and should be assessed promptly. Avoid assuming that such symptoms are simply the result of holding urine for too long.<br /><br /><strong><em>By Dr. Vikram Kalra, Principal Director - Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Aakash Healthcare Multi Speciality Hospital, Dwarka</em></strong><meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

can holding your urine during long office hours or traffic jams affect urinary health?

The Changing Obesity Treatment Landscape: Where Does Bariatric Surgery Fit in the Age of Weight-Loss Drugs?

Dr. Vivek Bindal

the-changing-obesity-treatment-landscape-where-does-bariatric-surgery-fit-in-the-age-of-weight-loss-drugs

Obesity Treatment

Bariatric Surgery

Weight Loss Drugs

surgery

type 2 diabetes

GLP 1

For someone living with obesity today, the treatment conversation has become more complex and, in many ways, far more hopeful. With newer weight-loss pharmacotherapies offering significant results, patients and clinicians now have more options than ever before. The key question is no longer whether medication or surgery is better, but rather which approach or combination of therapies is most appropriate for a particular patient. <br /><br />Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that can affect much more than body weight. It is closely linked to severe metabolic comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnoea, fatty liver disease, joint problems and reduced quality of life. Treatment must therefore focus not merely on short-term weight loss, but on long-term metabolic health and sustained weight maintenance.<br /><br /><h2>How Newer Weight-Loss Medicines Are Changing Treatment <br /></h2><br />Newer anti-obesity medicines, including <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/retatrutide-driving-peptide-linked-emergency-hospital-visits-in-australia-what-are-the-risks-article-156365185" data-type="tilCustomLink">GLP-1</a>-based and related therapies, have significantly expanded the options available to patients. They can support meaningful weight loss and improve metabolic health when combined with appropriate nutrition, physical activity and behavioural support. They may be particularly useful for patients who are not ready for surgery, those who need to improve their health before an operation, or those who experience weight recurrence after previous treatment. <br /><br />However, these medicines do not work in the same way for everyone. Long-term treatment may be required, while side effects, affordability, access and adherence can influence outcomes. Some patients may also regain weight after stopping treatment. In India, the cost and continued access to these therapies are therefore important considerations when planning long-term care.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/is-ozempic-face-influencing-the-beauty-industry-global-cosmetic-brand-highlights-a-new-trend-amid-glp-1-boom-article-156390682" data-type="tilCustomLink">Is ‘Ozempic Face’ Influencing The Beauty Industry? Global Cosmetic Brand Highlights A New Trend Amid GLP-1 Boom</a><br /><br /><h2>Why Bariatric Surgery Remains An Important Option <br /></h2><br />For patients with severe obesity, particularly those with established metabolic complications, metabolic and bariatric surgery remains an important treatment option. Procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and one-anastomosis gastric bypass can influence appetite, gut hormones and glucose metabolism, in addition to reducing stomach capacity. This can result in substantial weight loss and improvement in conditions such as diabetes and sleep apnoea. <br /><br />The decision to undergo surgery should be based on factors such as the severity of <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/sleep-apnoea-in-people-who-arent-obese-why-weight-alone-shouldnt-decide-who-gets-tested-article-156353221" data-type="tilCustomLink">obesity</a>, associated illnesses, previous treatment attempts and the patient's readiness for an operation and long-term follow-up. Surgery is not an endpoint; nutritional care, lifestyle changes and regular monitoring remain important afterwards.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/swiss-team-including-indian-scientists-develops-electric-implant-to-lower-blood-sugar-without-insulin-or-drugs-article-156391878" data-type="tilCustomLink">Swiss Team Including Indian Scientists Develops Electric Implant To Lower Blood Sugar Without Insulin Or Drugs</a><br /><br /><h2>Combining Medication, Surgery And Lifestyle Changes <br /></h2><br />Weight regain also needs to be viewed in the context of obesity as a chronic disease. Treatment may need to evolve over time, with medicines, surgery and lifestyle interventions playing different roles at different stages. A patient may use medication before surgery to improve metabolic health, while another may require medication later to manage weight recurrence. This approach allows treatment to adapt to the patient's changing needs rather than treating weight loss as a one-time goal.<br /><br />Technology is also influencing how bariatric surgery is performed. Technology has fundamentally elevated precision in minimally invasive bariatric procedures. Robotic-assisted surgical systems, such as the da Vinci Surgical System provide three-dimensional visualisation and wristed instruments that flex and rotate with dexterity far exceeding the human hand. <br /><br />Operating at a dedicated console, the surgeon maintains full control throughout the procedure, as the system translates hand movements in real time with built-in tremor filtration. These capabilities are particularly advantageous during complex reconstructive procedures such as gastric bypass, where precise suturing, micro-dissection, and delicate tissue handling are paramount. <br /><br />The technology, however, works within a broader surgical ecosystem. Patient selection, surgical expertise, standardised protocols, anaesthesia and postoperative care remain central to achieving good outcomes.<br /><br /><h2>What Real-World Experience With Robotic Bariatric Surgery Shows <br /></h2><br />         <div type="Youtube" id="_aS_qxfvNVE" title="Why Can You Still Get COVID After Vaccination? Ex-CDC Vaccine Advisor Explains" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_aS_qxfvNVE/mqdefault.jpg"><url><![CDATA[https://youtu.be/_aS_qxfvNVE?si=YPSvSQ6miHzHo4vN]]></url></div><br /><br /><br />Our real-world experience of 545 patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System showed consistent outcomes across procedures, including in patients with severe obesity. There were no conversions to open or laparoscopic surgery, the 30-day post-discharge complication rate was 2.02%, and no mortality was reported during follow-up. <br /><br />At one year, mean BMI reduced from 44.55 to 32.68 kg/m², while outcomes in patients with BMI ≥50 kg/m² remained broadly comparable with the overall cohort. For patients, this translates into predictable perioperative outcomes and meaningful weight reduction, while for surgeons, the experience demonstrates how robotic assistance can be integrated into bariatric practice, including the management of technically challenging cases. <br /><br />The changing obesity landscape ultimately calls for a comprehensive, personalized approach to treatment. Anti-obesity medications have expanded the options available to patients, while metabolic and bariatric surgery remains the cornerstone intervention for those who require substantial, durable weight loss and metabolic improvement. Neither approach should be viewed in isolation from nutrition, physical activity, behavioral health, and long-term follow-up.<meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

the changing obesity treatment landscape: where does bariatric surgery fit in the age of weight-loss drugs?

After Menopause, These Breast Changes Shouldn’t Be Ignored

after-menopause-these-breast-changes-shouldnt-be-ignored

menopause

menopause breast symptoms

breast cancer

breast changes

breast surgery

Menopause brings several changes to a woman’s body, and the breasts are no exception. As levels of oestrogen and other hormones decline, the glandular tissue in the breasts gradually decreases and is replaced by fatty tissue. This can change how the breasts look and feel. <br /><br />For many women, breasts may become softer, less firm or change slightly in size and shape after menopause. Loss of skin elasticity with age can also contribute to changes in breast shape. <br /><br />These changes can be a normal part of aging. But not every breast change after menopause should be attributed to hormones. <br /><br /><h2>What breast changes can happen after menopause? <br /></h2><br />The hormonal changes associated with menopause can alter the composition of breast tissue. Some women may notice that their breasts feel softer or less dense than they did before <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/why-peak-incidence-for-breast-cancer-in-india-occurs-between-ages-4050-compared-to-6070-in-the-us-europe-article-156359994" data-type="tilCustomLink">menopause</a>. Changes in skin elasticity can also lead to sagging or a gradual change in breast shape. <br /><br />These changes, by themselves, are generally not a cause for alarm. <br /><br />The concern arises when a new, unusual or persistent change appears, particularly if it is different from what a woman has experienced before.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/could-a-daily-pill-help-prevent-breast-cancer-recurrence-roches-promising-experimental-drug-awaits-fda-approval-article-156385270" data-type="tilCustomLink">Could A Daily Pill Help Prevent Breast Cancer Recurrence? Roche's Promising Experimental Drug Awaits FDA Approval</a> <br /><br /><h2>Which breast changes should not be ignored? <br /></h2><br />After menopause, women should speak to a doctor if they notice: <br /><br /><ul><li>A new change in the size or shape of one breast</li><li>A new lump or area of thickening in the breast</li><li>Persistent swelling in the breast</li><li>Dimpling, puckering or thickening of the breast skin</li><li>A newly inverted or retracted nipple</li><li>Unusual nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood</li><li>A change in the appearance of the nipple or areola</li><li>A new lump or swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone</li></ul><br />These signs do not necessarily mean that <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-in-young-women-what-you-should-know-article-156353342" data-type="tilCustomLink">cancer</a> is present. Several benign breast conditions can cause similar changes. However, they should not be self-diagnosed or automatically dismissed as a consequence of menopause. <br /><br /><h2>What about breast pain? <br /></h2><br />Breast pain is commonly caused by benign conditions and, before menopause, may also be associated with hormonal fluctuations. After menopause, persistent or unexplained breast pain should nevertheless be discussed with a doctor, particularly if it occurs alongside another breast change. <br /><br />It is also important to remember that the absence of pain does not rule out breast cancer. Many breast cancers do not cause pain, and some may not produce a lump that can be felt. <br /><br />This is one reason women should not wait for pain or a clearly palpable lump before seeking medical advice when they notice something unusual. <br /><br /><h2>Is breast cancer screening necessary after menopause? <br /></h2><br />Screening remains an important part of breast health after menopause, but the appropriate approach depends on factors such as age, family history, personal medical history and individual risk. <br /><br />Women should discuss screening with their healthcare provider and follow recommendations appropriate to their age and risk profile. Every woman should also learn how to perform a self-breast examination and become familiar with the normal look and feel of her breasts. Regular self-examination can help women notice new or unusual changes early and seek medical advice promptly. <br /><br />Self-breast examination should complement, rather than replace, recommended screening and clinical evaluation. If a woman notices a new lump, skin change, nipple change or any other unusual finding, she should consult a doctor even if her routine screening is due later. <br /><br />Those with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or a known genetic predisposition to <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-know-the-risks-recognise-the-signs-get-checked-article-156322666" data-type="tilCustomLink">breast cancer</a>, may require a different or more intensive screening strategy. <br /><br />Importantly, screening is intended for women who do not have symptoms. If a woman notices a new breast change, she should not simply wait for her next routine screening appointment; she should discuss the change with a doctor.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-are-women-in-india-being-diagnosed-too-late-article-156369203" data-type="tilCustomLink">Breast Cancer: Are Women in India Being Diagnosed Too Late?</a> <br /><br /><h2>Don't blame every change on menopause <br /></h2><br /><br />         <div type="Youtube" id="tGdVU0SoMLE" title="Is AI Affecting Your Brain? Doctor on Cognitive Health, Parkinson’s &amp; Dementia" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/tGdVU0SoMLE/mqdefault.jpg"><url><![CDATA[https://youtu.be/tGdVU0SoMLE?si=LpLlyIxxC6i2s_D5]]></url></div><br /><br /><br />Menopause is a natural stage of life, but it should not become an explanation for every new symptom. <br /><br />Most breast changes are not cancerous. However, the only way to determine the cause of a persistent or suspicious change is through appropriate medical evaluation. <br /><br />Women should become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel and pay attention to changes that are new or unusual for them. <br /><br />Breast health does not become less important after menopause. In fact, continuing to pay attention to changes, practising regular self-breast examination and staying up to date with appropriate screening can help detect problems early. <br /><br />The message is not to fear every change, but to avoid ignoring one simply because menopause has begun. When something feels or looks different, getting it checked is always better than assuming it is “just menopause.” <br /><br /><strong><em>By Dr. Tapti Sen, Sr. Consultant ,Breast Surgery, RG Stone Urology &amp; Laparoscopy Hospital, Kolkata</em></strong><meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

after menopause, these breast changes shouldn’t be ignored

Beyond the Lump: Overlooked Breast Cancer Symptoms That Can Delay Diagnosis

beyond-the-lump-overlooked-breast-cancer-symptoms-that-can-delay-diagnosis

Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer lump

Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast Cancer india

Breast Cancer diagnosis

Many women notice changes in their breasts, such as localised tenderness, an itchy nipple or a slight pulling of the skin. These changes are often caused by benign conditions, including hormonal changes, irritation or infection. <br /><br />Breast cancer does not always present as a painless lump, however. It can sometimes appear in less typical ways, and recognising persistent or unexplained changes can help people seek timely assessment. <br /><br /><h2>India’s breast cancer burden <br /></h2><br />GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates recorded 192,020 new breast cancer cases and 98,337 deaths in India in 2022. These estimates placed India third globally for the number of new cases and first for the absolute number of deaths. These are estimates for 2022, not current annual counts. <br /><br /><h2>Changes in skin, shape and nipple <br /></h2><br />A tumour can involve the breast’s supporting fibrous structures and surrounding tissues, causing skin tethering, dimpling or a new change in breast shape or symmetry. Any new, unexplained change deserves clinical assessment. <br /><br />Changes in the nipple also deserve attention. A nipple that newly flattens, turns inward or deviates to one side should be assessed. Spontaneous discharge from one nipple—particularly bloody or clear discharge—can be a warning sign, although it is not always caused by cancer. Persistent itching, burning, flaking or eczema-like crusting of the nipple may be associated with Paget’s disease of the breast, a rare malignancy involving the nipple–areola complex that is often associated with an underlying breast carcinoma.<br /><br />Unexplained swelling or persistent lumps in the armpit or above the collarbone can sometimes be an early sign of <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-awareness-month-advancing-a-risk-informed-and-equitable-approach-to-breast-cancer-screening-in-india-article-156379530" data-type="tilCustomLink">breast cancer</a>. These findings also have non-cancerous causes and need assessment rather than self-diagnosis.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/why-peak-incidence-for-breast-cancer-in-india-occurs-between-ages-4050-compared-to-6070-in-the-us-europe-article-156359994" data-type="tilCustomLink">Why Peak Incidence For Breast Cancer In India Occurs Between Ages 40–50, Compared To 60–70 In The US &amp; Europe</a><br /><br /><h2>Pain, redness and swelling <br /></h2><br />Breast cancer can be painful, even though pain alone is not a reliable way to tell whether a change is cancerous. A painful lump should not be ignored, and a painless lump should not be assumed to be harmless. <br /><br />Inflammatory breast cancer can be particularly difficult to recognise. It may cause rapid breast enlargement, heaviness, redness, warmth and swelling, sometimes without a distinct lump. The skin may develop a pitted appearance resembling orange peel. Because these symptoms can resemble mastitis or other skin conditions, infection may initially be suspected. However, persistent or worsening redness and swelling, especially when symptoms do not improve as expected with treatment, require prompt reassessment and investigation for an underlying malignancy. <br /><br /><h2>How the diagnosis is confirmed <br /></h2><br />Any persistent or suspicious breast change warrants clinical assessment. Depending on the person’s age and symptoms, evaluation may include diagnostic <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/could-a-daily-pill-help-prevent-breast-cancer-recurrence-roches-promising-experimental-drug-awaits-fda-approval-article-156385270" data-type="tilCustomLink">mammography</a> and targeted ultrasound. Further imaging or biopsy may be needed when indicated. A suspicious finding should not be dismissed solely because initial imaging is reassuring.<br /><br />Persistent or suspicious nipple and skin changes require timely specialist assessment. If Paget’s disease or another malignancy is suspected, biopsy may be necessary without a trial of topical treatment. Suspected inflammatory breast cancer requires prompt imaging and tissue diagnosis; a skin punch biopsy may also be indicated.<br /><br />Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-in-young-women-what-you-should-know-article-156353342" data-type="tilCustomLink">Breast Cancer in Young Women: What You Should Know</a><br /><br /><h2>Common causes of delay <br /></h2><br />People may delay seeking help because they expect a symptom to become painful, hope it will go away, or assume that redness or itching is due to irritation. Breast symptoms other than a lump can also be associated with longer diagnostic journeys. The length of delay varies between individuals and healthcare settings, so precise comparisons should be interpreted in the context of the study and the interval it measures. <br /><br />Repeatedly treating persistent skin redness or nipple crusting with antibiotics, moisturisers or steroid ointments without reassessment can delay appropriate investigation. Treatment may be reasonable when infection or a skin condition is suspected, but symptoms that persist, recur or worsen need further evaluation. <br /><br /><h2>When to seek medical advice <br /></h2><br />         <div type="Youtube" id="7xozR_pS-Ek" title="Breast Cancer Symptoms, Screening &amp; Treatment | Breast Cancer Awareness Month" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7xozR_pS-Ek/mqdefault.jpg"><url><![CDATA[https://youtu.be/7xozR_pS-Ek?si=WZKiFSwk34Bm6Hop]]></url></div><br /><br /><br />A new breast lump, unexplained skin dimpling, new nipple inversion, spontaneous bloody discharge, or persistent redness and swelling warrants prompt medical assessment. Unexplained fullness or swelling in the armpit or above the collarbone should also be checked. Most breast changes are benign, but symptoms should not be ignored or self-treated indefinitely. A healthcare professional can decide whether imaging, biopsy or other investigations are needed. <br /><br />Early assessment can improve the chance of diagnosing breast <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/breast-cancer-are-women-in-india-being-diagnosed-too-late-article-156369203" data-type="tilCustomLink">cancer</a> at a treatable stage. In general, breast cancer diagnosed while localised has a better prognosis than disease that has spread to distant parts of the body, although outcomes also depend on tumour biology, treatment, and other clinical factors.<br /><br /><strong><em>By Dr. Arun Kumar Sharma, Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Jalandhar</em></strong><meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />