Hina Khan breast cancer diagnosis: Stage 3 breast cancer explained, symptoms, treatment, survival rate

Hina Khan diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer: Also known as locally advanced breast cancer, it is a more advanced form of breast cancer where the cancer has extended beyond the immediate region of the tumour and may have invaded nearby lymph nodes and muscles (Image: @realhinakhan/Instagram)

Television actress Hina Khan, On Friday, revealed that she has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and is undergoing treatment for it. She took to her Instagram handle and shared a note in which she respectfully asked for privacy at such a crucial time. She said, “Hello everyone, To address the recent rumours, I want to share some important news with all the Hinaholics and everyone who loves and cares for me. I have been diagnosed with Stage Three breast cancer. Despite this challenging diagnosis, I want to reassure everyone that I am doing well. I am strong, determined and truly committed to overcoming this disease. My treatment has already begun and I am ready to do everything necessary to emerge from this even stronger.”

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What is Stage 3 Breast Cancer?

Stage 3 breast cancer, also known as locally advanced breast cancer, is a more advanced form of breast cancer where the cancer has extended beyond the immediate region of the tumour and may have invaded nearby lymph nodes and muscles, but has not spread to distant organs, says Delhi-based Oncologist Rajeev Kumar. He says that this stage is divided into three subcategories: Stage 3A, 3B, and 3C, which indicate the extent of cancer spread.

Stage 3A

• Tumour size: The tumour may be of any size.
• Lymph node involvement: Cancer has spread to 4 to 9 axillary lymph nodes or has enlarged the internal mammary lymph nodes.

• Tumour size: The tumour may be of any size and has spread to the chest wall or skin, causing swelling or an ulcer.
• Lymph node involvement: Cancer may have spread to up to 9 axillary lymph nodes or to internal mammary lymph nodes.

• Tumour size: The tumour may be of any size.
• Lymph node involvement: Cancer has spread to 10 or more axillary lymph nodes, lymph nodes near the collarbone, or internal mammary lymph nodes.

• A lump or mass in the breast or underarm
• Skin changes on the breast (redness, dimpling, or thickening)
• Nipple discharge
• Swelling of part or all of the breast
• Pain in the breast or nipple

Treatment for stage 3 breast cancer typically involves a combination of therapies:

• Surgery: Either a lumpectomy (removal of the tumour) or mastectomy (removal of the breast).
• Radiation Therapy: To destroy remaining cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or axilla.
• Chemotherapy: Often given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumour or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive cancers, medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors are used.
• Targeted Therapy: For HER2-positive cancers, drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) are used.
• Immunotherapy: In some cases, to help the body's immune system fight cancer cells.

The prognosis for stage 3 breast cancer varies depending on several factors, including:

• Tumour characteristics: Size, grade, hormone receptor status, HER2 status.
• Patient’s age and overall health.
• Response to treatment.

• The 5-year relative survival rate for stage 3 breast cancer is approximately 72 percent, but this can vary based on the factors mentioned above, says the doctor.
• Advances in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for patients with stage 3 breast cancer.