Breast Cancer Awareness:
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed for the entire month of October to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which impacts around 2.8 million women worldwide.
With early detection and appropriate treatment, breast cancer usually has a very good prognosis.The 5-year and 10-year breast cancer survival rates are 90% and 84%, respectively. Breast cancer screening modalities include both physical breast examination (including self-examination and clinical examination) as well as IMAGING OF BREAST.
Self-examination of breast is useful for women’s knowledge of the warning signs and symptoms of breast cancer, especially for those who do not have access to health facilities and advanced laboratory investigations for diagnosing breast cancer.
This year 2024, the Breast Cancer Awareness Month theme is “Together We Rise”, through which education and awareness of breast cancer are attempted worldwide.
Breast Cancer Awareness among Indian women:
Breast cancer is the fastest-growing cancer among women worldwide, including in India. According to GLOBOCAN (WHO) data for 2012, an estimated 70,218 women in India died from breast cancer, which is the highest number globally, surpassing China (47,984 deaths) and the US (43,909 deaths). Several alarming factors contribute to India’s higher incidence and mortality rates compared to China. In India, the age of incidence ranges from 35 to 50 years, which is a decade younger than in Europe and the USA. Additionally, there is a significant lack of awareness about the disease among Indian women.
In the USA, 85% of women are diagnosed with breast cancer at an early, manageable stage, whereas in India, only 5% receive an early diagnosis. Early detection can save lives. The statistics on breast disease in India are inaccurate due to social taboos and a lack of knowledge. Additionally, a variety of practitioners—including general physicians, pediatricians, gynecologists, surgeons, traditional healers, and homeopaths—attempt to treat breast cancer, contributing to the confusion. Despite breast cancer being a serious disease, it is not something to fear if detected early and managed properly.
We are fighting against breast cancer and aim to raise awareness among women of all ages. Our goal is to dispel the fear and myths surrounding the disease. It is predicted that the incidence of breast cancer will double by 2030, so immediate action is necessary to avoid a major crisis in the next 15 years. India has a long journey ahead in this fight.
Please support our efforts. Invite us to organize awareness sessions in your community. Our team of dedicated women will assist you with any issues and provide further management guidance.