Cases of breast cancer and mortality on the rise in K’taka

Mysuru: According to the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) – National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) , Karnataka has recorded a surge both in the number of breast cancer incidence and mortality. According to the data shared by Union minister of state for health and family welfare Satya Pal Singh Baghel during the recently concluded Lok Sabha session, Karnataka recorded an estimated 14,484 breast cancer cases in 2023. Similarly, the state recorded 5,388 breast cancer related deaths. Both are highest for the last five years. According to data, in 2019, 13,085 incidences of breast cancer were reported in the state which increased to 13,427 in 2020, 13,774 in 2021 and 14,126 in 2022. Dr Sathya M, head of the department and Dr Mukesh Shanthilal, assistant professor, department of oncology, KR Hospital said breast cancer cases were common among the elderly a few years back. But now data shows an increased incidence among the younger population. But the median age is still 50-54 years, they said. In India, the incidence has increased significantly. As per the Globocan data 2020, in India breast cancer accounted for 13.5% of all cancer cases and 10.6% of all deaths, they said. Screening for breast cancer is done in healthy subjects. Breast cancer screening recommendations can vary depending on factors such as age, risk factors, and guidelines from different health organizations. However, some general recommendations include regular mammograms are often recommended for women aged 40 and older, although the frequency may vary (annually or every two years) based on individual risk factors and guidelines from organizations such as the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task, they stated. Clinical Breast Exams (CBE) by a healthcare professional are typically recommended every one to three years for women in their 20s and 30s, and annually for women aged 40 and older. It's important for individuals to discuss their personal risk factors and preferences with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening plan for them. This is done in healthy people without any symptoms. But if you feel any swelling or lump in the breast or axilla you need to meet your doctor as soon as possible, they said. “There are no specific precautions for breast cancer. One needs to have a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and maintain body weight. Obesity is one of the risk factors for breast cancer. But it has not been conclusively established yet. Women should do regular exercise/ physical activities besides reducing stress and consulting the doctor if they have any issues in the breast,” stated Dr Sathya M, and Dr Mukesh Shanthilal. Dr. Rajashekar C Jaka, surgical oncologist, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, said, “In India we are getting cancer patients at a very young age.” He attributed the change in lifestyle as one of the main reasons for increase in incidence of breast cancer. He pointed out that multiple factors including late child birth, not breast feeding, taking a lot of contraceptive pills, undergoing IVF, stress, pollution, etc are playing a role in altering harmone levels of the body creating an imbalance. He also pointed out that social taboos are resulting in late diagnosis of the disease.