SPECIAL
CLINICS
CANCER CLINIC
In the initial stages,(when a cure is most likely), the majority of
cancers tend to be relatively asymptomatic. A painless lump in the
breast, a tiny ulcer on the tongue, a brief episode of abnormal vaginal
bleeding, a slight alteration in bowel habits. It is only when the
lesions are more advanced that they actually begin to cause significant
symptoms. By this time, unfortunately, the expected cure becomes much
less favourable.
Physicians are often reluctant to further investigate findings that
are apparently minor, or will most likely yield negative results.
Clustered micro-calciffications, for instance, found on routine mammography
in an asymptomatic woman are, more often than not, due to bengin causes.
Further, the biopsy technique for a non-palpable, mammographically
suspicious lesion in the breast is an elaborate one. It is no wonder
then, that many physicians will, (keeping their fingers crossed),
simply reassure the patient and advise a check mammogram after 3 -6
months.
A small but definite number of these women, whose mammographic findings
actually represent an occult malignancy will, in the above situation,
have their diagnosis delayed by at least 3-6 months.
As of now, till research can conjure up new means of treatment, early
detection seems to be the only way to achieve better survival rates.
For this it seems necessary, that certain clinical situations be faced
with a high degree of suspician, even if it means having to advise
a large number of "unnecessary" procedures.
The concern detection clinic is held on Thursday between 2.00-3.00
p.m.
Doctors :
Dr. Ian D'Souza
Dr. M.Fonseca
Dr. G Desa
