Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. In India, over 50% of breast cancer patients are diagnosed with advanced stages of the disease, and the overall 5-year survival rate is only 66%. Therefore, it is crucial to spread awareness about the importance of early detection and follow-up in breast cancer.

Women above 20 years of age should be educated on how to perform a self-examination of both their breast and axilla. This not only aids in the early detection of lesions but also allows the patient to be involved in their own medical care. The patient should be advised to feel for pain or a lump in the region of the breast, including the nipple, areola, and axilla. They should also look out for any skin changes like a change in skin color, ulcer, orange peel-like appearance, and nipple discharge.

A yearly doctor's visit, examination, and mammography are recommended for women above 40 years of age. Women with a family history of breast cancer should start getting screened even earlier, from 25 years of age. The frequency of clinical examination and mammography will vary depending on the risk factors associated with the patient.

At VG Hospital, they follow the triple assessment protocol for analysis of all breast diseases. They offer a comprehensive approach to the management of both benign and malignant breast diseases. The hospital also has various specialties, including gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecology, neurology, tumor, ortho & spine surgery, vascular surgery, endo-urology, nephrology & dialysis, onco-surgery, and medical oncology. The hospital is equipped with advanced laparoscopic surgery centers, well-equipped operation theater complexes with hepa filters, 24-hour casualty with minor OT, specialized trauma care, whole-body CT scan, digital X-ray, TMT & echo, 4D ultrasonography, 24-hour computerized digital laboratory and microbiology, well-equipped dialysis unit, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, and a 24-hour pharmacy.

The ultimate goal of spreading awareness and increased screening for breast cancer is to reduce mortality from the disease. Therefore, it is crucial to educate women on the importance of self-examination, yearly check-ups, and mammography. At the same time, hospitals like VG Hospital should be commended for following comprehensive protocols for the analysis of breast diseases. By working together, we can make significant progress in the fight against breast cancer.

In conclusion, breast cancer is a significant concern, and awareness and early detection are vital to increasing survival rates. So, let's take care of ourselves and spread the word about the importance of breast cancer screening.