Frequently Asked Questions
A breast oncologist is a medical specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of breast cancer.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or if you have symptoms such as a lump in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, or nipple discharge, you should see a breast oncologist.
Breast oncologists provide a range of services including breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment planning, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and post-treatment follow-up care.
Treatment options for breast cancer may include surgery (such as lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.
The duration of breast cancer treatment varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the specific treatment plan recommended by the oncologist. Treatment may last for several weeks to several months.
Side effects of breast cancer treatment may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, changes in appetite, weight changes, and emotional distress. Your oncologist will discuss potential side effects and ways to manage them.
Dr. Praveen Kumar Dadireddy, as the Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist & Breast Oncoplastic Surgeon at Continental Hospitals in Hyderabad, is renowned for his expertise in breast cancer treatment. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Dr. Praveen aims to create an environment where patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care throughout their breast cancer journey. His vision for the dedicated breast unit emphasizes innovative concepts, such as screening programs to detect breast cancer at early stages when intervention is most effective.
The best test to check for breast cancer is typically mammography, which is widely considered the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Mammography uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue, allowing healthcare providers to detect abnormalities such as tumors or calcifications that may indicate the presence of cancer. It is recommended for routine screening in women of average risk starting at around age 40, although screening guidelines may vary based on individual risk factors and medical history. In addition to mammography, clinical breast exams performed by a healthcare provider and breast self-exams can also be valuable tools for detecting breast cancer.
Early breast cancer detection can be achieved through regular mammograms, clinical breast exams by healthcare professionals, and self-breast exams at home. These methods help identify abnormalities such as lumps, changes in breast size or shape, or skin changes, which could indicate the presence of breast cancer. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes for individuals with breast cancer.