Breast cancer cause: How to identify symptoms, precautions, and why it's rising among young women

Actress Hina Khan, known for her role in "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. The 36-year-old announced her condition on Instagram, assuring fans that she has commenced treatment and is "doing well." Khan expressed her determination to overcome the illness and requested prayers from her followers.

Prevalence of Breast Cancer in India

According to the journal "Cancer," breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, making up 28.2% of all female cancers. The estimated number of cases is expected to reach 216,108 by 2022. From 1990 to 2016, the age-standardised incidence rate of female breast cancer surged by 39.1%, indicating a worrying trend across the country.

Understanding Breast Cancer: Symptoms and Precautions

Breast cancer originates in the cells of the breast, typically starting in the milk ducts or lobules. Common symptoms include lumps in the breast or underarms, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, or persistent breast pain.

"Although the precise cause of breast cancer is unknown, several risk factors have been identified. These include hormonal, lifestyle, and genetic factors," explained Dr. Arun Kumar Goel, Chairman and Head of Surgical Oncology at Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat. He added that exposure to hormones like progesterone and estrogen, family history, age, dense breast tissue, radiation exposure, sedentary behavior, obesity, and alcohol consumption all increase the risk.

Impact of Work and Social Pressures

Dr. Mandar Nadkarni, Head of Breast Oncology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, noted that social and work pressures contribute to delayed marriage and childbearing, which affect breastfeeding practices and elevate breast cancer risk. "Obesity is another significant risk factor. Maintaining physical fitness and a healthy weight can lower the risk, but not eliminate it," he said. Dr. Nadkarni also emphasized that less than 10% of breast cancer cases are due to genetics, with the majority arising from lifestyle and reproductive factors.

Rising Cases Among Younger Women

There has been a significant increase in breast cancer cases among younger women. Traditionally seen as a disease affecting older women, more cases are now being diagnosed in women under 40. A study published in the "Journal of Global Oncology" highlights that lifestyle factors, such as high-fat diets, sedentary behavior, and delayed childbirth, contribute to this trend. Younger women often face more aggressive forms of breast cancer, requiring intensive treatment.

Factors Contributing to Increased Susceptibility

The rising incidence among younger women can be attributed to changing lifestyles, including poor diet, lack of physical activity, and increased stress. Obesity, a major risk factor, is linked to these lifestyle changes. A study in the "International Journal of Cancer" found that obesity raises breast cancer risk in premenopausal women, underscoring the importance of weight management.

Genetic predisposition is another factor. Women with a family history of breast cancer, particularly those with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, are at higher risk. “Unchecked cell development in the breast tissue is the root cause of breast cancer. Genetic mutations, especially in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase risk,” said Dr. Rohan Khandelwal, Lead Consultant and Head of the Breast Centre at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. Hormonal factors, such as prolonged exposure to progesterone and estrogen, also play a crucial role.

Conclusion

Early detection is vital for successful treatment of breast cancer. Regular self-examinations and mammograms are recommended. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and reducing alcohol consumption can help lower the risk. Raising awareness and educating women about breast cancer is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.