Understanding Breast Cancer: A Candid Interview with Dr. Shilpy Dolas

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"Breast cancer is not always about pain or visible signs—sometimes it's silent. That’s why awareness and screening are your best defense."

Dr. Shilpy Dolas

Dr. Shilpy Dolas, a highly respected specialist in oncology and breast health, takes part in this informative interview wherein she sheds light on the myths, signs, dangers, and remedies of breast cancer. This Q&A session clears the air about all that you need to know, from detection at an early stage to taking precautions and finding out about the various treatment methods.

Q1: Dr. Shilpy Dolas, starting with the very basics, can you please tell us what breast cancer really is?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: Breast cancer is a condition caused by the cells in the breast growing abnormally. These changes may lead to lumps or tumors. Part of those tumors can be benign (non-cancerous), however, if they are malignant (cancerous), it is a different case. The most significant here is that breast lumps are 80% non-cancerous, nevertheless, it is quite dangerous to rely solely on your own diagnosis. Only a doctor can be the one who decides what type of tumor it is after a consultation.

Q2: Are there any common symptoms that everyone should keep an eye out for?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: Yes, of course. Breast cancer may not always have conspicuous symptoms, but it is best if you can catch some of the signs of the disease that include:

A lump in the breast or
the armpit
Pain or discomfort in the lump mass
Redness or change of the skin texture
Nipple discharge, particularly if it is of a different color or nature than usual
Alterations in the breast size or form
In advanced stages, the symptoms may be such as body weakness, tiredness or bone pain.

Even if you have just one of these, it is still advisable to have it checked out as soon as possible.

Q3: Suppose someone has found a lump or gotten any symptoms—what would be the best course of action?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: The most crucial thing to do is to go to a doctor without any delay. Ideally, a breast surgeon or an oncologist. However, if it is not feasible for you, then you can seek the help of a general surgeon. It is definitely not a good idea to treat yourself or wait for it to go away. Detection at an early stage can drastically boost the probability of a positive outcome.

Q4: We should discuss some risk factors here. Can you tell me who has a higher probability of getting breast cancer?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: Many factors can increase your risk:

Women face a higher risk (and let’s not overlook that men can develop breast cancer as well).
Age – the risk increases after 40, but we’ve seen it in women as young as 24
Family history – particularly with mutations in the BRCA1/BRCA2 genes
Hormonal factors, especially estrogen exposure
Obesity, particularly after menopause
Alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity

Maybe even lifestyle and environment could provide a small contribution here. The most important message? Knowing exactly the degree of your risk can become a lifesaver.

Q5: Is there anything people can do to reduce their risk?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: Yes, definitely. Here’s what can help:

Regular physical activity – 30–40 minutes daily can reduce breast cancer risk by up to 21%
Maintain a healthy weight, especially waist size under 33 inches
Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
Healthy diet rich in antioxidants—green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits, etc.
Breastfeeding can help slightly (about 4.7% reduced risk if continued for a year)
Start self-breast examinations after age 25

Q6: What are the screenings that are suggested and at what intervals should they be carried out?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas:

Women under 40: Focus on self-breast exams and consult a doctor if any symptoms appear.
Women over 40: Annual mammograms (digital or tomosynthesis) are essential.
In some cases, breast sonography (ultrasound) is more effective, especially in younger women.

Early detection is the most important factor.

Q7: Let’s talk about treatment. What are the available options today?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Breast cancer is typically treated with combination therapy, including:

Surgery: The first line of treatment. This could be breast conservation or oncoplastic surgery.
Chemotherapy: Often used before or after surgery, and it’s not as scary as people think.
Radiation therapy: Especially important after surgery to kill residual cancer cells.
Hormonal therapy: In certain types of breast cancer that are hormone-sensitive.

In advanced cases (stage 4), treatment may focus more on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Q8: One last question—Is it true that men can develop breast cancer?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas: Indeed, they be. While it’s infrequent—approximately 1–2% of all breast cancer cases—it is still very dangerous and is usually discovered at advanced stages. The probability is heightened by aging, taking some specific drugs, having hormone disorders, or having genes in the family. In the same way as women, men should see a physician if they find any nodules, experience pain, or have bizarre symptoms in the chest region.

Breast cancer is treatable and beatable—if detected early. Stay informed, get screened, and never ignore your symptoms.

Dr. Shilpy Dolas

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a woman or a man, young or old, knowing the signs of breast cancer and understanding your risks can literally save your life. Make self-checks a habit, stay active, eat healthy, and don’t wait to see a doctor if something feels wrong. Prevention starts with awareness.

Heart & Breast Care Clinic

Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune

Ruby Hall Clinic Sassoon Road Pune

Understanding Breast Cancer: A Candid Interview with Dr. Shilpy Dolas

Q1: Dr. Shilpy Dolas, starting with the very basics, can you please tell us what breast cancer really is?

Q2: Are there any common symptoms that everyone should keep an eye out for?

Q3: Suppose someone has found a lump or gotten any symptoms—what would be the best course of action?

Q4: We should discuss some risk factors here. Can you tell me who has a higher probability of getting breast cancer?

Q5: Is there anything people can do to reduce their risk?

Q6: What are the screenings that are suggested and at what intervals should they be carried out?

Q7: Let’s talk about treatment. What are the available options today?

Q8: One last question—Is it true that men can develop breast cancer?

Dr. Shilpy Dolas

Final Thoughts

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Heart & Breast Care Clinic

Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune

Ruby Hall Clinic Sassoon Road Pune