Dr Saptarshi Ghosh, Director and Senior Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Hope & Heal Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Fulbari, Jalpaiguri district, has called for more open conversations about breast cancer to address patients’ fears, improve awareness and encourage timely medical consultations.
Marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr Ghosh has initiated a conversation-led series to address concerns that patients and families may hesitate to discuss, including symptoms, diagnostic investigations, treatment options and the impact of cancer on everyday life.
He highlighted that fear of a possible diagnosis, treatment-related concerns and family responsibilities can lead some women to postpone medical consultations. A breast lump does not necessarily indicate cancer, but any new lump, breast thickening, skin dimpling, nipple changes or unusual discharge should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Dr Ghosh emphasised that breast cancer treatment is individualised and depends on the disease’s type, stage and biological characteristics. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
“People are often frightened not only of cancer itself, but also of what they believe a diagnosis will mean for their lives. Seeking medical advice is not a reason to panic; it is a way to understand what is happening and make informed decisions,” Dr Ghosh said.
The initiative aims to encourage evidence-based discussions, reduce stigma and help patients and families approach cancer-related concerns with greater clarity and confidence.