477% rise in breast cancer cases in India alone in over 2 decades, expert lists reasons

Breast cancer has become one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in women world over. (Picture: Pexels)

• Breast cancer cases in India rose 477% from 1990 to 2023
• Low- and middle-income nations see higher breast cancer rates
• Prevent with diet, exercise, and regular screenings

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A new study published in the Lancer Oncology has reported that there has been a 477% increase in breast cancer cases and 352% rise in deaths in India alone between 1990 and 2023. Breast cancer is found to be the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in women world over.

Another interesting finding is that it is the low- and middle-income nations that are more affected by breast cancer cases in comparison to high-income groups. The study was led by Kayleigh Bhangdia from the Institue of Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, US.

Moneycontrol team spoke to Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director, Surgical Oncology, Aakash Healthcare, to understand his viewpoint on the findings of the study, breast cancer causes and prevention tips. "The findings are alarming indeed. However, this should not come as a shock in view of a slew of lifestyle changes. The rise in the number of breast cancer cases can be attributed to modifiable risk factors, such as diet, tobacco, elevated blood glucose levels, obesity, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity. There is a clear need for prioritising prevention efforts through early detection, access to health care, and increased awareness of breast cancer prevention," he said.

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Causes of breast cancer

Breast cancer is caused by several factors which include genetics (for example, BRCA mutations), hormone exposure, ageing, and lifestyle-related things like eating a diet high on red meat, smoking, drinking alcohol, obesity, high blood sugar levels and sedentary living, Dr Giri said.

"To cut down your risk of breast cancer, one needs to follow a proper plan which includes eating a healthy diet, staying away from tobacco use, excess alcohol intake, staying physically active. In addition to this, you need to go for regular screenings (self examinations and mammography) and ensure to maintain a healthy weight," he added.

Furthermore, one needs to be aware of their family history which means if anyone in your family has had the condition, discuss with your doctor so that they can create personalised breast cancer prevention plans, Dr Giri said this on a concluding note.

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FAQs on breast cancer

Q. What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour that may spread to other parts of the body if not treated.

Q. What are the common symptoms of breast cancer?

Common signs include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast shape or size, dimpling of the skin, nipple discharge and redness or scaling of the nipple area.

Q. What are the major risk factors for breast cancer?

Risk factors include increasing age, family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations, obesity, hormonal factors, alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.

Q. Can men develop breast cancer?

Yes. Although rare, men can also develop breast cancer because they have a small amount of breast tissue.

Q. How is breast cancer detected?

Doctors may detect it through breast self-exams, clinical breast examinations and screening tests like Mammography.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.