Mahima Chaudhry had no symptoms before her breast cancer diagnosis. Learn why breast cancer often stays silent, how to perform breast self-exams, and when to consult a doctor.

Bollywood actress Mahima Chaudhry recently revealed that she had no symptoms before her breast cancer diagnosis, sparking concern among women everywhere. Her story highlights an important truth: breast cancer can remain undetected for a long time, especially in younger women, making early screenings and self-checks critical.

Why Breast Cancer Often Shows No Symptoms

According to Dr. Pragnya Chigurupati, Breast Oncoplastic Surgeon at AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, breast cancer can develop silently in its early stages. Younger women often have denser breast tissue, which can mask small tumors. “A woman may feel perfectly healthy until the disease reaches an advanced stage,” she explains.

Adding to the challenge, 70–75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history, notes IVF specialist Dr. Ruchi Bhandari. This means most women at risk might not even realize they should be vigilant.

How Often Should Women Check Their Breasts?

• For menstruating women: Perform a Breast Self-Examination (BSE) once a month, ideally 3–5 days after the period, when breasts are less tender.

• For menopausal women: Pick a fixed day each month to perform BSE.

• For all women: If anything feels unusual, don’t wait—consult a breast specialist immediately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Breast Self-Examination

Dr. Chigurupati suggests a simple, reliable method:

1. Stand in front of a mirror – Check for size, shape, symmetry changes, dimpling, swelling, skin puckering, or inverted nipples.

2. Raise your arms – Look for any visible changes from different angles.

3. Feel with your fingers – Use the pads of your three middle fingers in small circular motions to cover the entire breast and underarm area.

4. Repeat while lying down – Helps detect deeper tissue changes.

Any unusual findings, even if painless, should prompt a consultation with a specialist.

Rising Breast Cancer Cases in Younger Women

Dr. Deepak Jha, Chief of Breast Surgery at Artemis Hospitals, says breast cancer rates are increasing in women under 40, often with more aggressive tumors. Key reasons include:

1. Lifestyle changes – Sedentary routines, processed foods, alcohol, and smoking increase body fat, raising estrogen levels.

2. Reproductive and hormonal shifts – Delayed childbirth, fewer pregnancies, shorter breastfeeding, and early periods or late menopause increase cumulative hormone exposure.

3. Genetic factors – BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are more frequently detected due to advanced testing.

4. Environmental and stress factors – Chronic stress and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics, cosmetics, and cleaners can disrupt hormonal balance.

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Common Breast Cancer Myths

Dr. Ruchi Bhandari debunks common misconceptions:

• Myth 1: No lump means no cancer.
  Fact: Many breast cancers are not palpable.

• Myth 2: Only women with family history are at risk.
  Fact: Most cases occur without a family history.

• Myth 3: Only older women get breast cancer.
  Fact: Cases in women under 40 are rising.

• Myth 4: Mammograms cause cancer.
  Fact: Mammograms detect cancer early; they do not cause it.

• Myth 5: Breastfeeding makes you immune.
  Fact: Breastfeeding lowers risk but does not eliminate it.

When to Consult a Doctor Immediately

Seek medical advice if you notice:

• A new lump or persistent thickening

• Nipple discharge, especially bloody

• Skin dimpling or texture changes

• Persistent breast pain

• Swelling under the arms

• Any sudden changes in one breast

Early detection can raise survival rates to over 90%.

Mahima Chaudhry’s experience is a crucial reminder: breast cancer can stay silent, so regular check-ups and awareness of bodily changes are key to early detection and successful treatment.

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