Rising Alert: Understanding the Increase in Breast Cancer Cases in India

Breast cancer stands out as the most prevalent cancer globally, with India alone reporting over 1.9 lakh new cases in 2022, constituting 13.6% of all cancer cases. Shockingly, this means a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 4 minutes in India. By the end of 2022, approximately 5.25 lakh Indian women were living with a breast cancer diagnosis from the past five years. The global incidence of breast cancer is on a steady rise, expected to reach over 30 lakhs by 2040, with a significant portion occurring in economically developing regions like Asia and Africa.

Notably, breast cancer in India affects women at a younger age than in the West, with over 50% of cases occurring in the 25-50 age group, often detected at advanced stages. This trend is linked to India's predominantly youthful population, where over 80% are under 50 years old. As age is a known risk factor for breast cancer, this demographic shift indicates a continued rise in breast cancer cases as India's population ages.

Dr Sredharan M, an Onco-Surgery Consultant at Manipal Hospital in Goa, outlines both non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors for breast cancer. Non-modifiable factors include age, inherited genetic risks, and family history. However, modifiable factors like lifestyle changes play a significant role. Globalization and urbanization have led to unhealthy dietary habits, contributing to obesity, a known risk factor for breast cancer due to its impact on estrogen levels and insulin resistance.

Encouraging a healthy lifestyle is key, emphasizing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing processed foods. Regular physical activity is crucial, with activities like walking, cycling, or yoga helping to manage weight. Lifestyle shifts like increased smoking and alcohol consumption among women, especially in urban areas, also add to cancer risks.

The rising trend of women in high-status jobs delays marriage and childbirth, further increasing breast cancer risks. Avoiding pregnancy or breastfeeding can also heighten these risks. Screening tests like mammography and self-examinations are vital, especially for those with a family history of cancer, aiding in early detection and treatment planning.

In conclusion, preventive measures through lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and awareness are crucial in combating the growing burden of breast cancer in India and globally.

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