Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (2025)

  • Industry
  • 3 min read

While breast cancer screening and awareness initiatives are crucial, many young women lack access to these services. India still lacks a national screening programme, unlike western countries where early detection rates are as high as 80 per cent. In India, only 40 per cent of breast cancer cases are detected at an early stage, often leading to more complex treatments and poorer outcomes. Treatment options for younger patients typically include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy, reflecting the aggressive nature of cancer in this demographic.

Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (1)

  • Updated On Oct 21, 2024 at 05:56 PM IST

Read by: 100 Industry Professionals

Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (2) Read by 100 Industry Professionals

Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (3)

Faridabad: Doctors at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad have highlighted a concerning rise in breast cancer cases among women in their 20s and 30s. While traditionally seen in women over 50, younger populations are increasingly at risk, posing new challenges for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, said experts.

Globally, breast cancer is now the most common cancer among women, with 2.26 million cases reported in 2020 alone, and it accounts for 30 per cent of cancers among young adults. Experts point to several contributing factors for this. Most important risk factor for breast cancer in younger age groups is having a genetic risk, though other risk factors have a role to play too. Lifestyle choices also play a critical role.

Dr Shiveta Razdan, Consultant, Breast Oncology, Amrita Hospital Faridabad said, “Lifestyle factors that may lead to breast cancer can be divided into two broad categories – modifiable and non-modifiable. Within the modifiable ones are obesity, consuming high fat foods, nulliparity, usage of contraceptive pills, and alcohol consumption. Meanwhile, an individual’s sex, increasing age, menarche (onset of the menstrual cycle) before 12 years, menopause in women over 53 years of age, and hereditary cancer are some non-modifiable factors.

“Smoking and alcohol consumption are significant risk factors. Heavy smoking or consuming even one alcoholic drink per day can increase breast cancer risk by 30-50 per cent. The use of hormonal contraceptives presents another layer of complexity. Prolonged use of oral contraceptive pills, especially for more than five years, is associated with an elevated risk of breast cancer. The risk can persist for up to a decade after discontinuation. In addition to cancer concerns, these treatments may also impact fertility, complicating family planning for young women,” she added.

Rising awareness and societal shifts have improved early detection rates, but challenges remain. While breast cancer screening and awareness initiatives are crucial, many young women lack access to these services. India still lacks a national screening programme, unlike western countries where early detection rates are as high as 80 per cent. In India, only 40 per cent of breast cancer cases are detected at an early stage, often leading to more complex treatments and poorer outcomes. Treatment options for younger patients typically include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy, reflecting the aggressive nature of cancer in this demographic.

Advt

Dr Saphalta Baghmar, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad said, “Preventive measures for young women include regular self-breast examinations starting at an early age and annual or biennial mammograms beginning at 35-40 years. It is essential to consult a specialist if any lump persists for more than three weeks. Prevention, early diagnosis, and timely access to treatment are critical for improving outcomes. Creating awareness and encouraging regular screenings will bridge the gap between knowledge and action. There are also a number of protective steps that women can take to prevent this cancer such as breastfeeding, vegetative diet, maintaining a healthy lifestyle comprising of daily exercise.”

As breast cancer cases rise among young adults, proactive steps and early interventions are vital in reducing risks and ensuring better treatment success. This increased incidence in breast cancer cases shows the urgent need for expanded awareness campaigns, screening guidelines, and comprehensive care to combat breast cancer in younger populations.Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (4)

  • Published On Oct 21, 2024 at 05:56 PM IST

All Comments

By commenting, you agree to the Prohibited Content Policy

Post

By commenting, you agree to the Prohibited Content Policy

Post

Find this Comment Offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the submit button. This will alert our moderators to take actions

REASONS FOR REPORTING

Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals

Subscribe to our newsletter to get latest insights & analysis.

Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (6)

Download ETHealthworld App

  • Get Realtime updates
  • Save your favourite articles

Scan to download App Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (9)
  • breast cancer
  • young women
  • breast cancer screening
  • early detection
  • risk factors
  • hormonal contraceptives
  • preventive measures
Breast cancer cases among women in their 20s, 30s on the rise - ET HealthWorld (2025)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Saturnina Altenwerth DVM

Last Updated:

Views: 6393

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (64 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Saturnina Altenwerth DVM

Birthday: 1992-08-21

Address: Apt. 237 662 Haag Mills, East Verenaport, MO 57071-5493

Phone: +331850833384

Job: District Real-Estate Architect

Hobby: Skateboarding, Taxidermy, Air sports, Painting, Knife making, Letterboxing, Inline skating

Introduction: My name is Saturnina Altenwerth DVM, I am a witty, perfect, combative, beautiful, determined, fancy, determined person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.