Rising breast cancer cases in Himachal : Experts urge early detection and lifestyle changes

Breast cancer has emerged as a major health concern in Himachal Pradesh, now ranking as the second most common cancer among women in the state. Alarming data from Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla reveals a sharp increase in new cases, with 220 to 250 diagnoses being reported annually at the institution’s cancer hospital. The overall cancer burden in Himachal Pradesh has also escalated, with cases climbing from 8,978 in 2021 to 9,566 in 2024. Breast and lung cancers are at the forefront of this rise.

Experts are sounding the alarm not just locally but across India. According to Globocon’s 2020 report, one woman in India is diagnosed with breast cancer every four minutes. IGMC Shimla alone registered 117 new breast cancer cases in 2022, and over the last five years, more than 1,000 women have received treatment for the disease.

Breast cancer typically begins in the ducts or lobules of the breast, with ductal cancer, originating in the milk-carrying ducts, being the most common form. Understanding the cancer’s origin is crucial for determining treatment.

Several known risk factors contribute to breast cancer development, including:

Age: The risk for Indian women rises after 30, peaking between 50 and 64.

Family history: A family history of breast cancer significantly raises the risk.

Lifestyle factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and hormone therapy post-menopause increase risk.

Reproductive history: Delayed childbirth or choosing not to have children can elevate risk.

Radiation exposure: Prior chest radiation also increases the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

While some factors, such as age and genetics, are beyond control, lifestyle changes can play a major role in reducing risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and staying active are all important preventive measures. Additionally, minimizing hormone therapy after menopause and considering breastfeeding can further lower the risk.

Early detection remains critical in improving breast cancer survival rates. Health experts recommend regular self-breast exams and clinical checks, particularly for women over 30. Monthly self-examinations and annual mammograms for women over 40 are key to early diagnosis.

Although rare, breast cancer in men accounts for about 1% of cases, emphasizing that both men and women should be vigilant about breast health.

The rising tide of breast cancer in Himachal Pradesh highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and accessible screening programs across the state. Government initiatives and community outreach programs are essential to educate women on the importance of early detection and encourage them to seek timely screenings.

With cancer cases surpassing 9,000 annually in Himachal Pradesh, taking proactive steps through awareness, prevention, and early diagnosis is crucial. By doing so, we can alleviate the growing burden of breast cancer and improve the health and well-being of women across the state.

Breast cancer, when detected early, is highly treatable, and with informed choices and timely interventions, its impact can be significantly reduced.