Breast Cancer is the Most Common Cancer in Women in India

Breast cancer in Indian women is steadily on the rise and research has shown for the first time now that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in India because the risk of females getting breast cancer is 12.29 %. Women play many roles as a mother, a sister, a wife, a daughter & a friend. We all know the phrase “ Matrudevo bhava” it means that mother is equal to God. Also no one can deny the fact that our mothers gone through thick and thin to groom us to be who we are today. Women across the globe play many significant roles in life. However for every role there is a need of healthy life. One of the foremost barriers between women and a healthy life is breast cancer. According to experts breast cancer is one of the leading diseases affecting women today and believes that this issue must be immediately addressed. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO's specialized cancer agency, has released the latest data on cancer incidence, mortality and prevalence worldwide.

The new version of IARC's GLOBOCAN 2012 provides the most recent estimates for 28 types of cancer in 184 countries and offers a comprehensive overview of the global cancer burden. It reveals striking patterns of cancer in women and highlights that priority should be given to cancer prevention and control measures for breast and cervical cancers globally.

Dr. Shalin Dubey , General Consultant & laparoscopic surgeon from Sterling Wockhardt Hospital Vashi said “Last ten years or so, breast cancer has been rising steadily, and for the first time now, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in India because the risk of females getting breast cancer is 12.29 %. Early diagnosis and treatment can cure it completely Since more patients in India turn up in later stages, they do not survive long irrespective of the best treatment they may get, and hence the mortality is fairly high. There are lots of reasons for late presentations including lack of awareness, shyness on part of patients, social stigma, ignorance by family members and many other causes.”.

He further added “ Around 70% of all breast lumps are first found by woman herself. Most breast lumps are harmless. Approximately three out of four breast lumps turn out to be benign. There is no need to panic, just consult an expert. Decisions about which treatment is most appropriate, are made on sound judgment, which should be the responsibility of both you and your doctor. Awareness about how your breast look and feel normally will make it easier for you to spot and identify any suspicious change at an early stage. Early detection improves the overall cure rate and survival. Early Breast cancer usually has no symptoms Regular breast self-exams and mammograms are important. Although the incidence of breast cancer is increasing. If diagnosed early it is curable provided the right treatment choices are made. ”

Non Preventable Breast cancer factors like if a family member has developed breast cancer , women in that immediate family have a high risk for breast cancer than those without family history. Women who experienced their first menstrual cycle before age 12, had their menopause after age 55, and/or never had children are at an increased risk of breast cancer. At the same time preventable breast cancer factors like smoking, diet & alcohol habit also increased risk of Breast cancer.

Source-Medindia