Shimla: Breast cancer cases have become a matter of concern in Himachal Pradesh, as it is the second most common cancer among women in the state. According to data from Shimla’s Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), the number of new breast cancer cases is increasing alarmingly. The cancer hospital of IGMC receives 220 to 250 new cases of breast cancer every year. Himachal Pradesh has seen a steady increase in total cancer cases, rising from 8,978 in 2021 to 9,566 in 2024. Of these, breast and lung cancer cases are the highest.
Experts have also highlighted worrying national statistics. According to Globocon’s 2020 update, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every four minutes in India. IGMC Shimla recorded 117 new cases of breast cancer in 2022 alone and over 1,000 women have been treated for the disease in the last five years.
Understanding breast cancer and its types; risk factors and prevention
Breast cancer usually begins in the ducts or lobules of the breast. Ductal cancer, which arises in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, is the most common form. Meanwhile, lobular cancer begins in the milk-producing glands. Understanding where and how the cancer begins is important in determining the type and treatment approach.
Several risk factors are known to contribute to the development of breast cancer. These include:
- Age: The risk of breast cancer in Indian women increases from the age of 30, peaking between the ages of 50 and 64.
Family history: Women with a family history of breast cancer have a higher risk. - Lifestyle factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and hormone therapy after menopause are risk factors.
- Reproductive history: Delaying childbearing or not having children can increase the risk.
- Radiation exposure: Previous radiation treatment to the chest increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be controlled, the risk of breast cancer can be greatly reduced by making lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and being physically active are important measures. Also, reducing hormone therapy after menopause and considering breastfeeding may help reduce the risk.
Importance of early detection of breast cancer; awareness and screening are key
Early detection plays a key role in improving breast cancer survival rates. Regular self-examination and clinical breast exams are essential, especially for women over the age of 30. Women are encouraged to perform a self-breast examination at least once a month to identify any abnormal changes in their breasts. Regular mammograms, especially for women over the age of 40, are important for early diagnosis.
Although breast cancer is rare in men, accounting for about 1 percent of all cases, it is important to know that both men and women have breast tissue, and men can also get breast cancer.
To tackle the rising cases of breast cancer, there is a dire need for greater awareness and accessible screening programmes in Himachal Pradesh. The government and health experts should focus on community outreach programmes, encourage women to come forward for screening and educate them about the importance of early detection.
With over 9,000 cancer cases reported every year in Himachal Pradesh, addressing this growing health crisis through awareness, preventive measures and early detection is crucial to reduce the burden of breast cancer on women and healthcare infrastructure.
Breast cancer is a treatable condition if it is detected on time, and with proper precautions, it is possible to reduce its impact to a great extent.
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