🎀 Your Breast Health Matters!

Dr. Sheetal Bidri
Oct 14
3 min read

October is celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but awareness shouldn’t be limited to one month a year. It’s something every woman deserves to have, every single day. The word “cancer” often brings fear. But here’s what I want to remind every woman reading this breast cancer is treatable, especially when detected early.

Awareness and timely action truly save lives.

So, let’s simplify breast health into a few easy points that every woman can understand and follow.

Understanding Breast Cancer in India

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer among Indian women.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Indian cancer registries:

In 2022, India recorded nearly 1.9 lakh new cases of breast cancer.
Sadly, about 98,000 women lost their lives to it that year.
1 in every 4 cancers diagnosed in Indian women is breast cancer.
Around 25% of cases occur in women under 40 years of age, which means younger women are also at risk.

Studies show that the global burden of breast cancer is continuing to rise and may cross 2 million new cases every year by 2030.

These numbers are not to create fear, but to create awareness.

HERE ARE 3 THINGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW :

Know Your Normal

Every woman’s breasts are unique. They change with age, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause.But knowing what’s normal for you helps you notice what’s not.

Make it a habit to do a simple self-check once a month, ideally a few days after your period.

Here’s what to look for:
A new lump or thickening
Changes in size or shape
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Redness, rash, or swelling
Discharge or change in the nipple

If you notice any of these, don’t panic, but don’t ignore them either.Most changes are harmless, but it’s always best to get them checked by a qualified doctor.

Your Lifestyle Is Your Best Defense

We often hear that cancer “just happens” — but lifestyle plays a major role in prevention.The good news is, simple daily habits can lower your risk significantly.

Try these easy steps:

✅ Move your body — Walk, dance, cycle, or practice yoga for 30 minutes daily.

✅ Eat colourful foods — Fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.

✅ Sleep well — Your body heals and restores itself during sleep.

✅ Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.

✅ Manage stress — Meditation, journaling, prayer, or even 5 minutes of deep breathing can make a difference.

And most importantly, make time for yourself. Self-care is not selfish, it goes beyond spas, pedi-manis and massages.

Regular Screening Saves Lives

For women above 40 years, a mammogram every 1–2 years is recommended.If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may advise screening earlier.

Remember: getting checked doesn’t “invite trouble.”It gives you peace of mind and helps detect problems before they become serious.

Risk Factors & Lifestyle

“Now, what increases the risk?

Some things we can’t change — like age, genetics, or family history.

But many things are in our control — like:

Maintaining a healthy weight,
Staying physically active,
Limiting alcohol and processed foods,
Avoiding smoking,
And being aware of changes in your body.

For women who’ve had children, breastfeeding for even a few months has shown protective benefits too.

How Homeopathy Supports Women’s Breast Health

As a Homeopathic Physician and Holistic Health Practitioner, I see many women who come with issues like:

Hormonal imbalance
PMS-related breast pain
Fibrocystic changes or benign lumps
Emotional anxiety related to breast health or fear of illness

Homeopathy works beautifully alongside lifestyle measures. It helps by:

🌿 Balancing hormones with gentle medicines,

🌿 Supporting lymphatic drainage and detoxification,

🌿 Reducing recurring breast tenderness or swelling,

🌿 Calming fear, anxiety, and stress, which affect hormonal and immune balance.

Homeopathy looks at the whole person, not just the symptom. By treating you holistically body, mind, and emotions, it helps restore long-term balance and well-being.

Awareness Is the Real Prevention

Breast cancer awareness is not just about wearing a pink ribbon, it’s about starting conversations. Talk openly with your mother, sister, daughter, or friend. Teach young girls to be comfortable and confident in understanding their own bodies.

Because when women talk, women heal. 💗

In Summary: