Breast cancer remains a severe global health crisis, responsible for an estimated 694,000 deaths worldwide in 2024, according to World Health Organization (WHO) data.
The WHO reported that breast cancer was the most common cancer among women in 164 out of 186 countries that year, with approximately 80% of cases occurring in women who possess no specific risk factors other than age and gender.
Late Detection Challenge in India
In India, late-stage diagnosis poses a major challenge to effective treatment. Dr. Nita Nair, Consultant of Breast Oncosurgery at PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre in Mumbai, highlighted that while breast cancer is highly curable when caught early, over 40% of Indian women are diagnosed at advanced stages.
”Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and, if detected early, is curable. Unfortunately, in India, over 40 percent of women are diagnosed at advanced stages. Early detection helps save lives. Screening helps us detect cancer early,” Dr. Nair stated.
Screening Protocols and Knowing Your Normal
Medical experts outline three core pillars for screening and early detection:
- Mammograms: Recommended once every two years for women aged 40 to 74.
- Clinical Breast Examinations: Recommended annually after age 50.
- Monthly Self-Examinations: Encouraged for women of all adult ages to establish baseline familiarity with their bodies.
Dr. Nair emphasized that breasts undergo natural evolutionary changes across puberty, pregnancy, and menopause due to fluctuating hormone levels. However, women should seek immediate medical assessment if they observe warning signs such as a new lump, nipple retraction or discharge, skin dimpling, or persistent redness and focal changes.
