Breast Cancer – In recent years, India has witnessed a sharp increase in breast cancer cases among women, making it the most common cancer in the country. Experts emphasize that women should undergo regular screenings from the age of 20 to detect this serious disease at an early stage and begin treatment promptly.
The Problem with Relying Solely on Mammograms
While a mammogram is considered a standard test for breast cancer screening worldwide, Indian health experts caution that relying solely on it is not advisable, especially in a country like India where cancer patterns differ significantly from Western nations.
Key Differences: India vs. The West
- Age of Onset: In Western countries, the disease typically begins after the age of 55. In contrast, Indian women often see the onset from the age of 45.
- Breast Tissue Density: Indian women frequently have denser breast tissue, whereas mammograms are more effective in detecting abnormalities in fatty tissue.
Doctors explain that because of dense breast tissue, early signs of cancer can be missed in a mammogram, or the report can be inaccurate, making it less beneficial. Due to delayed diagnosis, nearly 40 to 50 percent of women in India lose their lives to this disease.
Better Screening Alternatives for Indian Women
Experts recommend that Indian women should prioritize options beyond just mammography:
- Ultrasound: Doctors believe ultrasound is a far better option for examining dense breast tissue as it provides more accurate information.
- Self-Breast Examination (SBE): A study from Sanjay Gandhi PGI indicates that if women examine their own breasts every month, they can detect early changes like lumps or nipple changes and seek immediate treatment.
- Targeted Imaging: If any discomfort is felt, getting targeted imaging done is essential.
A study from Tata Memorial Hospital also found that even when mammograms were combined with Clinical Breast Examination (CBE), the desired detection rates were not achieved, and deaths continued. Therefore, awareness, regular SBE, and the correct imaging are the keys to combating this problem.
