Urban India Faces Rising Burden Of Breast Cancer: See Most Affected Cities

A recent study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has shed light on the concerning rise in breast cancer burden across India, particularly in southern states and urban centres. Published earlier this month, the study projected a significant increase in breast cancer cases by 2025, urging urgent attention and measures to address the escalating crisis.

The study analyzed data from 2012 to 2016, focusing on years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to assess the disease burden. According to the findings, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, and Delhi emerged as regions with a disproportionately higher burden of breast cancer compared to states in eastern and northeastern India.

In 2016 alone, the burden of breast cancer among Indian women was estimated at 515.4 DALYs per 1,00,000 women after age standardization. However, the study's projections for 2025 are alarming, indicating a substantial increase in DALYs, potentially reaching a staggering 5.6 million.

Urbanization and Lifestyle Factors Drive Higher Incidence

Urban areas, including Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi, exhibited higher age-standardized incidence rates, indicating a greater prevalence of breast cancer. Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, obesity, delayed age of marriage and childbirth, and low rates of breastfeeding were identified as contributing factors to the urban-rural divide in breast cancer prevalence.

Socioeconomic Disparities and Lack of Awareness

Furthermore, socioeconomic factors were found to significantly shape the cancer burden, affecting access to healthcare, preventive measures, and treatment outcomes. Disparities in healthcare access and awareness were particularly pronounced, with a majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer presenting at advanced stages or with metastatic disease.

The Path Forward: Equity and Awareness

The study emphasized the critical need for equitable cancer control measures, advocating for universal access to prevention, early detection, and treatment services. Recognizing the correlation between cancer prevalence and socioeconomic inequalities, the researchers called for a reevaluation of resource allocation and enhanced support systems.

Addressing the lack of awareness surrounding breast cancer, particularly in rural and marginalized communities, was identified as a crucial aspect of comprehensive cancer control efforts. The study underscored the importance of promoting education, awareness, and screening programs to facilitate early diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.

As India braces for a significant rise in breast cancer cases, proactive measures aimed at addressing regional disparities and socioeconomic barriers are imperative to mitigate the growing burden of this devastating disease.