A Decade Younger: Why Indian Women Need Early Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer remains a significant health concern for women worldwide. However, in India, it presents unique challenges. While the risk factors are similar globally, their prevalence and impact can vary significantly between populations, making it crucial to understand and address these differences in the Indian context.

Unique Risk Factors for Indian Women

Apollo’s Health of the Nation 2024 report revealed that breast cancer in India is increasingly diagnosed in younger women, with the median age being nearly a decade younger than in Western countries. Our data also show that about 25% of breast cancer cases occur in women aged less than 40 years, an age group not typically targeted for routine screening. This shift necessitates an urgent call for increased awareness and early detection strategies tailored to younger populations in India.

Several factors contribute to the rising incidence of breast cancer in India, including age, reproductive health (declining menarche age and advancing first pregnancy age), family history, use of estrogen as hormone replacement therapy, and rising rates of obesity and alcohol consumption.

Genetic predispositions, particularly mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, also play a significant role. Studies have shown that mutations in these two tumour suppressor genes account for nearly 25% of all hereditary breast cancers and 5% of all breast cancers.

Despite these known risks, India's population screening rate is an abysmal 1.9%, reflecting a significant public health challenge.

Cultural Barriers and the Need for Awareness

Cultural taboos surrounding breast health further exacerbate the issue. Many women avoid discussing or addressing breast health concerns due to societal stigmas, thus delaying diagnosis and treatment, leading to poorer outcomes.

Self-examination and regular screenings are critical in combating this trend. Breast self-examination is a simple yet effective method for early detection, allowing women to become familiar with their breast tissue and notice any changes promptly.

However, self-examination alone is not enough. Regular clinical screenings and mammograms are essential for comprehensive breast health. Did you know that a mammogram can detect early signs of breast cancer up to two years before a lump can be felt?

Unfortunately, the fear of discomfort associated with mammograms often deters women from scheduling these essential screenings. It's important to address these fears by emphasizing that while mammograms might cause temporary discomfort, they are crucial for early detection and significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

Apollo's Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool

To bridge the gap in awareness and early detection, Apollo Hospitals has introduced a proprietary breast cancer risk assessment tool.

This innovative tool considers various risk factors among Indian women and by answering just 7 questions, women can gain valuable insights into their likely breast cancer risk.

The tool categorises a woman’s risk level, providing personalized recommendations.

Be ProHealth for Your Breast Health

The importance of early detection cannot be overstated – early detection saves lives. Breast cancer, when identified at an early stage, is one of the most treatable cancers. Almost 98% of women diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage have a better 5-year survival rate, compared to just 31% of those diagnosed at a later stage.

Understanding your breast cancer risk is the first step towards proactive health management. Apollo’s online breast cancer risk assessment offers a quick and easy way to gauge your risk and take necessary actions.

Don't wait until it's too late. Every four minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in India. Every eight minutes, a woman loses her life to it. It only takes two minutes to understand your risk. So, take the assessment to understand your breast health as a first step towards a healthier, happier future.

This Article is written in partnership with Apollo Hospitals.