‘Breast cancer: Early screening key to boosting survival rates’

Breast Cancer: Early Screening Key to Boosting Survival Rates

A recent study published in BMC Public Health highlights the alarming rate of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment outcomes in India. While breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women, many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, limiting treatment options and reducing survival chances. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by Indian women in detecting and treating breast cancer, and the steps that can be taken to improve survival rates.

The study found that breast cancer rates are higher in urban areas, but mortality rates are disproportionately higher among rural women. Limited awareness about the importance of screening and early diagnosis, coupled with lack of access to quality healthcare services in rural areas, are part of the reason. Additionally, fear and stigma surrounding breast cancer diagnosis can lead to late detection.

In contrast, developed countries such as Europe and the US have significantly higher mammography rates among women aged 45 and above. These countries have well-established screening guidelines and public health initiatives, which contribute to early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Key Highlights

• In India, only 1% of women aged 45 and above undergo mammography periodically.
• Breast cancer rates are higher in urban areas, but mortality rates are disproportionately higher among rural women.
• Limited awareness about the importance of screening and early diagnosis contributes to late detection.
• Fear and stigma surrounding breast cancer diagnosis can lead to late detection.
• Developed countries have significantly higher mammography rates among women aged 45 and above.

What Can be Done to Improve Mammography Rates?

• Nationwide campaigns are essential to educate women about early detection and regular screening.
• More mobile screening units and mammography facilities, particularly in rural, remote areas, offering free or low-cost services through government healthcare schemes, will help make screening more accessible.
• Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) is the government-recommended screening method for Indian women aged 30-65.
• Training Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) to perform CBE is crucial.

Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer

• A healthy lifestyle is key, including eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight.
• Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding tobacco use can also greatly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Regular breast self-examinations and CBE are crucial for early detection, especially for women aged 30-65 years.
• Women with a family history should consider genetic counselling and testing.
• Breastfeeding for longer durations has also been shown to lower breast cancer risk.

How Does Treatment Outcome Change as the Disease Progresses?

• In the early stages, when the cancer is small and hasn’t spread, treatment is often very effective and many women can be cured.
• However, as the disease spreads to nearby tissues or other body parts, it becomes harder to treat and control.
• Advanced breast cancer usually requires a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern in India, and early detection is crucial to improving survival rates. The government and healthcare providers must work together to increase awareness about the importance of screening and early diagnosis, and to make screening more accessible and affordable for all women. By taking these steps, we can reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve treatment outcomes for Indian women.

Keywords: Breast cancer, Mammography, Early detection, Screening, India, Survival rates.

Hashtags: #BreastCancer #Mammography #EarlyDetection #Screening #India #SurvivalRates #Healthcare #PublicHealth #WomenHealth

Source link