‘Breast cancer cases likely to rise by 26 p.c. by 2020’ – The Hindu.

The Havard School of Public Health reveals that breast cancer cases are expected to rise by 26 per cent by the year 2020, particularly in developing countries. In all probability, it is likely to overtake cervical cancer as the most common cancer among women.

Oncologists in the Port City say that awareness on the subject, regular screening, early detection and a positive approach to life would help fight the deadly cells.

Though women above 40 are more at risk of developing breast cancer, radiation oncologist of City Health Centre N. Sujatha suggested that those inherited with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations fall in the higher risk bracket. “Screening for them is suggested relatively from a younger age. Mammography screening is one of the best ways to trace the presence of such genes,” she said.

Risk factors

Consultant clinical and radiation oncologist at Queen’s NRI Hospital Suman Das said that understanding the factors go a long way in detecting breast cancer at an early stage.

He explained: “Basically, these are classified into two groups – modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Obesity, lifestyle changes, stress, lack of physical activity, unhealthy food habits, and alcohol and tobacco use fall under the first category.”

Non-modifiable risk factors include women with two or more family members with breast cancer; early age of menarche; late age of first pregnancy and menopause; reduced breastfeeding and genetic factors, Dr. Das added.

Despite the growing awareness on the subject, the incidence of breast cancer is alarmingly increasing with each passing year, Chief of radiation oncology of Lions Cancer Hospital Aditya Narayan said.

“Dealing with cancer patients is no cakewalk and they need tremendous emotional support to handle the disease. However, a positive mind-frame works wonders. For the last 13 years of my clinical practice, I have seen women with positive approach responding well to the treatments,” he observed.