As Hina Khan opens up about breast cancer diagnosis, we ask experts what ‘stage 3’ means

Hina Khan is a household name in Indian television. She rose to fame with her portrayal of Akshara in the long-running soap opera “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai,” and by participating in reality shows like “Bigg Boss” and “Khatron Ke Khiladi.”

 

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Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast tissue. It’s the most common cancer affecting women globally, though it can also occur in men. Hina’s diagnosis serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of breast cancer awareness, early detection, and staying positive during treatment.

A breast cancer diagnosis can be life-altering, and the stage of the cancer significantly influences the treatment course and outlook. Stage 3 breast cancer falls under the umbrella of “locally advanced” breast cancer, meaning the cancer has spread beyond the initial tumour but hasn’t reached distant organs yet. While this diagnosis can be daunting, many women with stage 3 breast cancer respond well to treatment and can live long, healthy lives.

What does a stage 3 diagnosis mean?

According to Dr Niti Raizada, Senior Director – Medical Oncology and Hemato Oncology, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, in a stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis, the tumour is larger than 5 cm (about the size of a small lime) and has spread to 1-3 lymph nodes (pea-sized glands in the armpit/ lymph nodes in neck or internal mammary area) or surrounding tissues like chest wall muscles or skin.

This stage typically involves symptoms such as palpable breast or underarm lumps, skin changes, breast pain, or nipple discharge, said Dr Srinivas B J, Consultant Medical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Center, K R Road, Bangalore.

It’s important to note that stage 3 is further divided into categories (3A, 3B, and 3C) depending on the specific extent of lymph node involvement and other factors.

Khan’s post received an outpouring of support from fellow celebrities and her fans (Source: Hina Khan/ Instagram)

Why might stage 3 breast cancer go undiagnosed? What are the risk factors?

Early-stage tumours might be very small and not cause noticeable symptoms, said Dr Raizada. Regular self-exams and mammograms are crucial for detection as they can identify lumps before they’re felt, she added.

The prognosis depends on factors such as tumour size, extent of lymph node involvement, and response to treatment, according to Dr Srinivas. Breast cancer can go undiagnosed until stages 1 or 2 due to slow progression, lack of noticeable symptoms, and irregular screening, he added.

Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history, genetics, and lifestyle choices, according to Dr Raizada. “Some women are more susceptible due to inherited gene mutations (BRCA1,BRCA2, PALB2 etc) that significantly increase the risk,” she told indianexpress.com

Treatment options for stage 3 breast cancer

The treatment approach for stage 3 breast cancer is typically multifaceted and tailored to the individual’s specific case.

Stage 3 are locally advanced breast cancers and treated very differently, said Dr Raizada.

It requires aggressive treatment, including surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy with lymph node removal), radiation therapy to eradicate remaining cancer cells, and systemic treatments like chemotherapy to target cancer throughout the body, explained Dr Srinivas.

“Treatment often is neoadjuvant chemotherapy if we plan to conserve the breast. Also personalised treatment is done based on tumour characteristics like ER,PR, Her2neu. Radiation is often required,” Dr Raizada said.

Early detection is key in fighting most cancers. Regular self-examinations and mammograms are crucial for women over 40. If you notice any changes in your breasts, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.