As per statistics of American Cancer Society, the survival rate for stage 3 breast cancer is about 72 per cent. Stage 3 breast cancer means when it has already spread to adjoining lymph nodes/tissues, i.e. is detected late In contrast survival rates for stage 1 breast cancer, i.e. early detection is 100 per cent. Survival rates are given as an approximate number, as to how many persons will live up to 5 years after diagnosis, depending on type and stage of cancer. But patients do live longer. At this advanced stage also it does respond to treatment. However the quality of life and survival vary as per the stage of cancer, type of cancer, whether it is hormone dependant or not, whether it is localized or spread to adjacent areas or distant body parts. Early detection ensures that it is cured, before it grows and spreads elsewhere. Hence the importance of self examination of breasts by women. Any doubtful swelling or lump should be investigated to confirm or exclude breast cancer. Any bloody discharge or abnormal discharge from the nipple, puckering and retraction of the nipple, hardening and or reddening of the skin of any breast, are other signs suggestive of breast cancer and warrant treatment. The survival rates and quality of life both vary whether cancer is detected in time or late.
