Breast Cancer: Everything You Need to Know, from Diagnosis to Prevention

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern, affecting individuals worldwide. In India, the incidence of breast cancer has been steadily increasing in recent years. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer is now the most common cancer among Indian women. In fact, recent estimates^[1] suggest that approximately 1.5 lakh new cases are diagnosed each year. This data is a stark reminder of the urgency to address this issue and raise awareness about early detection and prevention.

Here’s everything you need to know about the condition, along with effective prevention tips and the importance of screening.

Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Early detection is crucial for effective breast cancer treatment. Being aware of the common symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Remember, breast cancer is successfully treatable when detected and treated early. The symptoms of breast cancer include:

Lump(s) or thickening in the breast or underarm
Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Unexplained pain in the breast or nipple
Nipple discharge other than breast milk
Skin changes on the breast, such as redness, dimpling, or scaling

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should visit your family physician to discuss the cause of these symptoms further.

The diagnosis of breast cancer typically involves a combination of methods, including a clinical breast exam, mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy.

Once diagnosed, your treatment options can vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. They may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, Immunotherapy and hormonal therapy. Further, your treatment plan will, most likely, be tailored to your specific diagnosis, and it is crucial to discuss all available options with your medical team to make informed decisions.

Screening, and why it is Important

Breast cancer, like many other cancers, can be a silent killer. You might not notice symptoms of the disease for several months or years before it is detected. This is why regular screening is imperative to detect cancer early. When detected early, breast cancer is more likely to have successful treatment outcomes and very high cure rates.

The goal of screening is to detect cancer before it causes symptoms, making it easier to treat and potentially preventing it from spreading.

As per the American Cancer Society, a woman should start screening for breast cancer with mammograms, every year starting at age 40^[2]. Women at high risk for breast cancer, such as those individuals with strong family history of breast cancer may need to start screening earlier. While, this is a general recommendation, it is important to talk to your doctor about when you should start screening for breast cancer based on your individual risk factors.

The best way to screen for breast cancer is by performing regular breast self-exams and getting a mammogram once every year. But if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should visit your doctor immediately to get them investigated.

Importance of Breast Self-Exams

Breast self-exams are a simple yet powerful tool to detect breast cancer early. Conducting regular breast self-exams can help you become familiar with your body, helping you notice any changes as soon as they occur. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform a breast self-exam:

Stand in front of a mirror and inspect your breasts for any visible changes, such as dimpling, puckering, or changes in the nipple’s position.
Raise your arms above your head and look for the same changes.
Lie down and use your opposite hand to feel your breast using a circular motion, checking for lumps or abnormalities.
Repeat the process for the other breast.

Performing breast self-exams should become a monthly routine, preferably a few days after your menstrual cycle. If you notice any changes or have concerns, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Risk factors:

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Being aware of these risk factors can help you make informed lifestyle choices and consider regular screenings earlier than recommended. Some common risk factors include:

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly after 40.
Family history: A family history of breast cancer can raise your risk, especially if close relatives have had the disease.
Genetic mutations: Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can significantly increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Getting tested for this gene mutation is paramount, especially if you have a family history of the disease.
Hormone replacement therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy may increase your risk of breast cancer as well. It is best to speak to your treating physician about this if you have any concerns.
Reproductive factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, and having children at an older age can all raise your risk of developing breast cancer.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Regular, heavy alcohol consumption may also increase your risk of breast cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can also raise your risk of developing breast cancer. Having a high amount of body fat or adipose tissue can lead to the release of high levels of estrogen, which has been linked to an increased risk of breast, endometrial, ovarian, and some other cancers.

Understanding these risk factors is essential for making lifestyle choices and seeking appropriate screenings, especially if several risk factors apply to you.

Tips for prevention:

Preventing breast cancer is not always possible, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and promote breast health:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy and nutritious diet, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can all help prevent or delay the onset of breast cancer.
Limit alcohol consumption: If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Breastfeeding: If possible, breastfeed your children, as it can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Get regular screenings: This is especially true if you have any of the above-mentioned risk factors. Even otherwise, you should start screening for the disease once you reach the age of 40.
Know and understand your family history: Be aware of your family’s cancer history and discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Undergo genetic testing: If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, consider genetic counselling and testing for the BRACA1 and BRACA2 genes.
Speak up about hormone therapy: Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy with your physician, if you are on this form of treatment.
Do regular breast self-exams: Conduct regular breast self-exams and promptly report any changes or concerns.

The Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer is a formidable adversary, but with early detection and timely intervention, it can be treated successfully. Regular screenings, being awareness of the symptoms, and self-exams are powerful tools in the battle against breast cancer. Equally important is having a support network of family and loved ones who understand the significance of early detection and encourage regular check-ups.

In conclusion, remember that early detection saves lives. Spread awareness about the importance of breast health, be proactive in monitoring your own well-being, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. By working together and staying informed, we can make significant strides in the fight against breast cancer and improve the chances of a brighter, healthier future.

References:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8966510/

[2]https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html#:~:text=Women%20ages%2040%20to%2044,or%20can%20continue%20yearly%20screening.

What Are the Different Stages of Cancer?

What Are the Different Stages of Cancer? Hearing the word cancer can bring up several questions at once. What does the diagnosis mean? How serious is it? Has the cancer spread? What treatment options are available, and what happens next? One of the first things people often want to understand is the stage of the cancer, because it helps explain how far the disease has progressed and what the medical team may recommend. But cancer staging is not always as straightforward as it sounds. Some cancers are detected before they spread beyond the tissue where they began, while others may have reached nearby lymph nodes or distant organs by the time they are diagnosed. The stage also depends on the type of cancer, its location, and the results of the investigations performed. This is why understanding what are the different stages of cancer can help patients and their families make sense of a diagnosis without relying on assumptions or frightening information found online. In this blog, we will explain the different stages of cancer, how doctors determine them, what staging means for treatment, and how patients can approach the next steps with greater clarity. We will also discuss what to consider when exploring Cancer Treatment in Bangalore, so you can understand the process without unnecessary confusion or fear. What Does Cancer Staging Mean? Cancer staging is the process doctors use to describe the extent of cancer in the body. It helps establish where the cancer started, how large the tumour is, whether nearby lymph nodes are involved, and whether the disease has spread to distant parts of the body. Here are five important things to understand about cancer staging. It describes how far the cancer has spread: The stage gives doctors a structured way to describe the extent of the disease. For many solid tumours, this includes whether the cancer is limited to its original location, has grown into nearby tissues, or has spread to other parts of the body. Staging is different from grading: Cancer stage and cancer grade are not the same thing. Stage describes the extent of the cancer in the body, while grade describes how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope and, in many cancers, how aggressively they may behave. The stage depends on the type of cancer: Many solid tumours use a numbered staging system, but the details vary by cancer type. Breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and other solid tumours may use stages 0 through IV, although the criteria for each stage are different. Staging helps guide treatment decisions: Knowing the stage helps the medical team decide which treatments may be appropriate. Depending on the cancer, options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of treatments. The stage does not tell the whole story: Cancer staging provides important information, but it cannot predict every detail of an individual’s experience. People with the same cancer stage can respond differently to treatment. What Are the Different Stages of Cancer? Many solid cancers are grouped into stages 0, I, II, III, and IV. Although the exact criteria differ by cancer type, the stages generally describe how much the cancer has grown or spread. The following table provides a general overview. It is not a substitute for the staging criteria used for a specific cancer. Cancer Stage What It Generally Means What Doctors May Consider Stage 0 Abnormal cells are present but have not invaded nearby tissue. This is often called carcinoma in situ. Whether the abnormal cells can be removed or treated locally and what follow-up is needed. Stage I Cancer is generally limited to a relatively small area or has not spread extensively. Surgery, radiation therapy, or other treatments depending on the cancer type. Stage II Cancer may be larger or may have grown further into nearby tissue. In some cancers, nearby lymph nodes may be involved. The extent of local growth, lymph node findings, tumour characteristics, and whether combined treatment is needed. Stage III Cancer has often spread more extensively into nearby tissues or regional lymph nodes. Whether surgery, radiation, systemic treatment, or a combination is appropriate. Stage IV Cancer has spread to distant organs or parts of the body. This is generally called metastatic cancer. Treatments to control the disease, manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and, in some cases, achieve prolonged remission. Stage 0: Abnormal cells that have not invaded nearby tissue Stage 0 is often used for certain cancers in which abnormal cells remain confined to the layer of tissue where they first developed. This is known as carcinoma in situ. These cells are not invasive cancer, but some forms may develop into invasive disease if left untreated. The risk and recommended management depend on the type of abnormality and its location. Treatment may involve removing the abnormal tissue or using another local treatment. In selected situations, careful monitoring may be considered. The decision depends on the diagnosis, the risk of progression, and the available clinical evidence. Stage I: Cancer that is generally localised Stage I often describes a cancer that is relatively small or limited to its original site. It has not spread extensively to nearby structures or distant organs. Some stage I cancers can be treated successfully with surgery or another local treatment. Other cancer types may require additional therapy depending on their biological features and risk of recurrence. The term early-stage cancer is often used for stage I disease, but it is important not to assume that every cancer labelled stage I behaves in the same way. The exact meaning depends on the specific cancer. Stage II: More extensive local growth Stage II often means the cancer has grown further into nearby tissue or is larger than a tumour classified as stage I. For certain cancers, limited regional lymph node involvement may also affect the stage. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other medicines, depending on the cancer type. Doctors may recommend treatment before surgery

How Is Cancer Diagnosed If There Are No Symptoms?

How Is Cancer Diagnosed If There Are No Symptoms? Most people associate cancer with a noticeable change in the body. It could be a lump that was not there before, unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, a persistent cough, or a wound that does not heal. These changes often encourage people to visit a doctor and get themselves checked. But what happens when there are no warning signs at all? Can cancer still be present even when a person feels completely healthy? The answer is yes. Some cancers can develop and grow for a considerable period without causing obvious symptoms. In certain cases, they are discovered during routine health check-ups, screening tests, or investigations carried out for an unrelated medical concern. This is one reason why understanding how is cancer diagnosed if there are no symptoms matters, even if you feel well and have no immediate reason to worry about your health. Cancer does not always cause discomfort in its early stages. A small tumour may not press against nearby organs, affect their functioning, or produce noticeable changes. Some cancers also develop in parts of the body where early changes are difficult to detect without medical investigations. This means that the absence of symptoms cannot always rule out cancer. At the same time, it is important to remember that feeling healthy does not automatically mean you need extensive cancer testing. Screening recommendations depend on factors such as your age, personal and family medical history, lifestyle, and known risk factors. In this blog, we will explain how doctors detect cancer in people who have no symptoms, which screening tests may be recommended, how abnormal findings are investigated, and when specialist care may be necessary. We will also discuss how early detection fits into the broader journey of cancer care, including access to Cancer Treatment in Bangalore, so you can make informed decisions without unnecessary fear. Can Cancer Develop Without Causing Symptoms? Yes, cancer can develop without producing noticeable symptoms, particularly during its early stages. However, this does not happen in every case, and the likelihood of detecting cancer without symptoms varies depending on the type of cancer, its location, and the person’s individual risk factors. Here are five important things to understand. 1. Early-stage cancers may be too small to cause noticeable changes 2. Some organs do not produce obvious warning signs in the early stages 3. Symptoms may be mild enough to go unnoticed 4. Cancer may be discovered during tests for another condition 5. Having no symptoms does not mean you should get every possible test Which Cancer Screening Tests Can Detect Disease Before Symptoms Appear? Screening tests are useful for certain cancers because they can identify early disease or changes that may develop into cancer. However, screening recommendations vary by cancer type, and not every cancer has an established screening test for people at average risk. Here are five screening approaches worth understanding. 1. Mammography for breast cancer 2. Cervical screening for cervical cancer 3. Colorectal cancer screening 4. Low-dose CT for selected people at high risk of lung cancer 5. Risk-based screening for people with inherited cancer susceptibility Screening Tests vs Diagnostic Tests: What Is the Difference? Screening and diagnostic testing may both be part of cancer detection, but they serve different purposes. Understanding this difference can help you know what to expect if a doctor recommends an investigation despite your having no symptoms. Screening Tests Diagnostic Tests Usually offered to eligible people who do not have symptoms. Used to investigate symptoms, abnormal screening results, or suspicious findings. Aim to identify signs of certain cancers or precancerous changes early. Aim to determine the cause of an abnormality and establish a diagnosis. Recommended according to age, individual risk, and screening guidelines. Selected according to the suspected condition and previous test results. Examples include mammography, cervical screening, and colorectal cancer screening. Examples include diagnostic imaging, endoscopy, and biopsy. A positive result does not automatically mean cancer is present. A diagnosis may require examination of tissue by a pathologist. May need to be repeated at recommended intervals. Timing depends on the findings, the person’s clinical situation, and the urgency of further assessment. What happens if a screening test is abnormal? An abnormal result is a reason to investigate further, not a reason to assume the worst. Doctors review the result, consider the person’s risk factors, and decide whether additional testing is necessary. For example, an abnormal mammogram may be followed by additional breast imaging and, in some cases, a biopsy. An abnormal cervical screening result may lead to repeat testing or a closer examination of the cervix. A positive colorectal screening test may require colonoscopy. Some findings turn out to be benign or temporary. Others may indicate precancerous changes or cancer that needs treatment. The follow-up plan depends on the specific result, so it is important to complete the recommended assessment rather than ignore the finding or assume it confirms a serious diagnosis. Why a biopsy may be needed A biopsy involves collecting a small sample of tissue or cells so that they can be examined in a laboratory. When cancer is suspected, this examination can help establish whether the abnormal cells are cancerous and, in many cases, identify the cancer type. Not every abnormal scan requires a biopsy. Sometimes, a doctor can assess a finding through imaging or recommend monitoring it over time. In other situations, a tissue sample is necessary to reach a reliable diagnosis. Your doctor will explain why a biopsy is being considered, how it is performed, and what the possible results could mean for your care. Who Should Consider Cancer Screening Even Without Symptoms? Not everyone needs the same screening plan. Some people are at average risk, while others may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening because of their personal or family history. Consider these five factors when discussing screening with a doctor. 1. Your age 2. Your family history 3. Smoking and other known risk factors 4. Previous precancerous changes or certain medical

What Tests Are Done to Detect Cancer?

What Tests Are Done to Detect Cancer? Hearing the words “you need to get tested for cancer” can make even a routine medical appointment feel suddenly serious. You may start wondering what the tests involve, whether they will be painful, how many tests you will need, and perhaps most importantly, whether an abnormal result automatically means cancer. It does not. Many symptoms and abnormal test results can have causes that are not cancer, which is why doctors usually use a combination of information and tests before reaching a diagnosis. So, what tests are done to detect cancer? There is no single test that can detect every type of cancer. Depending on your symptoms, medical history and the part of the body being investigated, your doctor may recommend a physical examination, blood or urine tests, imaging scans, an endoscopy, a biopsy or more specialised laboratory tests. A biopsy is often needed to confirm that abnormal cells are cancerous and to determine the type of cancer. For someone looking into Cancer Treatment in Bangalore, knowing how the diagnostic process works can make the first consultation less overwhelming. You will also understand why your doctor may recommend several tests instead of immediately jumping to a treatment plan. The most important thing to remember is that getting a test does not mean you have cancer. It simply means your doctor wants more information. The right test depends on the situation, and understanding why each test is being recommended can help you approach the process with greater clarity. What Happens Before Cancer Tests Are Recommended? Cancer diagnosis usually begins with a conversation, not a scan. Your doctor first needs to understand what is happening with your body and why further investigation may be necessary. 1. Your symptoms are discussed You may be asked about symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, unusual bleeding, a lump, changes in bowel or bladder habits, a persistent cough or changes in the skin. Having these symptoms does not automatically mean cancer, but persistent or unexplained symptoms may need evaluation. 2. Your medical history is reviewed Your doctor may ask about previous illnesses, medications, previous procedures and other health conditions. This information can help determine which tests are appropriate. 3. Your family history may be considered Certain cancers can run in families. Your doctor may ask whether close relatives have had cancer and, if so, what type and at what age. 4. A physical examination may be performed Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may examine areas such as your abdomen, lymph nodes, skin, breasts or other parts of your body. 5. Previous reports may be reviewed If you have already undergone blood tests, scans or other investigations, take those reports with you. Your doctor may be able to identify patterns or decide whether additional testing is needed. 6. Your risk factors may be discussed Age, smoking, alcohol use, occupational exposures, previous medical conditions and other factors may influence which cancers a doctor considers. This initial evaluation helps doctors decide what to investigate next. It also prevents unnecessary testing when a symptom may have a more common explanation. 8 Common Tests Used to Detect or Diagnose Cancer When people ask what tests are done to detect cancer, they often expect one particular test. In reality, doctors have several diagnostic tools available, and they may use them together. 1. Blood Tests Blood tests are often among the first investigations doctors order. They can provide information about your overall health and may reveal abnormalities that need further investigation. Some common blood tests include: 2. Imaging Tests Imaging tests allow doctors to look inside the body without making a surgical incision. They can help identify an abnormal area, understand its location and assess whether cancer may have spread. 3. Biopsy If there is one test patients should understand when asking what tests are done to detect cancer, it is the biopsy. A biopsy involves removing a sample of cells or tissue from an abnormal area so that a pathologist can examine it. In many cases, this is the test used to confirm whether cancer is present. A biopsy can be performed in different ways depending on where the suspected abnormality is located. Once the tissue reaches the pathology laboratory, it can be examined under a microscope and may undergo additional tests to determine the cancer type and other characteristics. 4. Endoscopy Tests Sometimes doctors need to look directly inside the body rather than relying only on external imaging. This is where endoscopy can be useful. An endoscope is a thin instrument with a light and camera that allows a doctor to examine the inside of certain organs or body passages. It can also allow tissue samples to be collected. Some commonly used endoscopic procedures include: Screening Tests vs Diagnostic Tests This is one distinction that is worth understanding before you start searching what tests are done to detect cancer online. Screening Tests Diagnostic Tests Usually performed in people who do not have symptoms Usually performed when there are symptoms, abnormal screening results, or another reason for concern Aim to find certain cancers early Aim to determine what is causing a symptom or abnormal finding Used for specific cancers where screening has an established role Selected according to the person’s symptoms and clinical situation Examples include mammography, cervical screening, and colorectal cancer screening Examples include biopsy, CT, MRI, ultrasound, blood tests, and endoscopy A positive screening result does not automatically mean cancer Diagnostic testing may be needed to confirm or rule out cancer Screening is not recommended as one universal test for every type of cancer. Established screening programmes exist for certain cancers, and recommendations can vary based on age, risk and other factors. Breast Cancer Screening: Mammography is an established screening test for breast cancer. If a screening mammogram shows an area that needs closer examination, additional imaging or a biopsy may be recommended. Cervical Cancer Screening: HPV testing and Pap testing are used for cervical cancer screening. These tests can

How Can I Manage Chemotherapy Side Effects?

How Can I Manage Chemotherapy Side Effects? Starting chemotherapy can bring a strange mix of emotions. You may feel relieved that treatment has begun, worried about what comes next, and overwhelmed by everything you have been told to expect. One of the biggest concerns for many patients is not just the treatment itself, but the side effects that may come with it. Will I feel sick? Will I lose my hair? Will I always be tired? Can I continue working? What should I eat? And most importantly, how can I manage chemotherapy side effects without making everyday life even harder? The good news is that you do not necessarily have to simply tolerate every side effect until chemotherapy is over. Many common side effects can be prevented, reduced or treated. Your cancer care team can prescribe medicines for problems such as nausea and vomiting, monitor your blood counts, help manage pain and other symptoms, and make changes to your treatment plan when medically appropriate. Side effects also vary considerably from one person to another. The type and dose of chemotherapy, the cancer being treated, your general health and other medicines you take can all influence what you experience. This is why knowing what to expect can make chemotherapy feel a little less unpredictable. Fatigue, nausea, changes in appetite, constipation, diarrhoea, mouth sores, hair loss, skin changes and nerve-related symptoms are some of the effects that may occur, but not everyone experiences all of them. Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Side Effects? Before looking at ways to manage side effects, it helps to understand why they happen in the first place. Chemotherapy medicines are designed to attack cancer cells, particularly cells that grow and divide quickly. However, some healthy cells also grow quickly. These include cells in the hair follicles, mouth, digestive tract and bone marrow. When chemotherapy affects these healthy cells, side effects can occur. The important thing to remember is that side effects do not tell you whether chemotherapy is working. Having severe side effects does not necessarily mean the treatment is more effective, and having very few side effects does not mean the treatment is not working. 1. Different chemotherapy drugs cause different effects There are many types of chemotherapy medicines, and they do not all affect the body in the same way. Your doctor will consider the particular medicines being used when explaining what you might experience. 2. The dose matters The amount of chemotherapy you receive can influence the type and severity of side effects. Your oncology team will determine the dose based on factors such as your cancer, treatment plan and overall health. 3. Your health also plays a role Existing health conditions, nutritional status and other medicines can affect how your body handles chemotherapy. 4. Side effects can appear at different times Some effects may happen during or soon after treatment, while others may appear several days later. Certain side effects may continue for longer or develop after several treatment cycles. 5. Everyone responds differently Two people receiving similar chemotherapy can have very different experiences. One person may have significant nausea while another may have little or none. Some people experience considerable fatigue, while others remain relatively active. Understanding this difference is important because there is no single answer to how can I manage chemotherapy side effects. Your management plan needs to be based on the symptoms you actually experience and the treatment you are receiving. 8 Common Chemotherapy Side Effects and What You Can Do Chemotherapy side effects can affect different parts of your body and your everyday routine. Here are some of the most common ones and practical ways they may be managed. 1. Nausea and Vomiting Nausea is one of the side effects many patients worry about before chemotherapy even begins. Fortunately, several medicines are available to prevent or reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. 2. Fatigue Fatigue can feel different from ordinary tiredness. You may sleep and still feel as though your energy has not returned. To manage it: Fatigue can also be related to anaemia, infection, poor nutrition or other treatment-related issues, so persistent or severe tiredness should be discussed with your care team. 3. Loss of Appetite and Taste Changes Food may suddenly taste different during chemotherapy. You may notice a metallic taste, reduced appetite or a dislike of foods you previously enjoyed. Try: If eating becomes difficult or you are losing weight, ask your cancer care team whether you should meet a dietitian. 4. Constipation Constipation can occur because of chemotherapy itself, reduced activity, changes in food intake or some medicines used during treatment. Depending on your doctor’s advice, you may benefit from: Do not start laxatives or supplements on your own without discussing them with your cancer care team. 5. Diarrhoea Diarrhoea can cause dehydration and weakness if it continues. You can help manage it by: Your doctor may recommend medicines depending on the cause and severity. 6. Mouth Sores Chemotherapy can affect the cells lining the mouth and may lead to soreness or ulcers. To protect your mouth: Tell your doctor if mouth sores make eating or drinking difficult. 7. Hair Loss 8. Nerve Problems Certain chemotherapy medicines can cause peripheral neuropathy. This may feel like tingling, numbness, burning, pain or unusual sensitivity, particularly in the hands and feet. Tell your doctor if you notice: Early reporting is important because your oncology team may be able to adjust treatment or recommend ways to manage the symptoms. Everyday Habits That Can Make Chemotherapy Easier Managing chemotherapy is not just about taking medicines when symptoms appear. Your everyday routine can also make a difference. Eat for nourishment, not perfection: During chemotherapy, your nutritional needs may change. The goal is usually to give your body enough energy, protein and fluids while working around changes in appetite, taste or digestion. If you are struggling to eat, ask your cancer care team about speaking with a dietitian. Keep moving when you can: You do not need to exercise intensely. If your