Breast cancer emerges as leading threat to women’s health in Kashmir
Breast cancer has become the leading cancer among women and the primary cause of cancer-related deaths in the reproductive age group, according to doctors.
In an exclusive interview with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Dr Shabnam Bashir, a leading onco-surgeon in Kashmir called for early detection and lifestyle modifications.
Dr Shabnam, who is specially trained in breast and colorectal cancer surgeries, said there is an alarming rise in breast cancer cases and that nearly 60% of women seek treatment at advanced stages due to a lack of awareness. She described cancer as a modern epidemic, saying approximately 2 million new cases are being diagnosed worldwide each year and over 1 million deaths occur due to cancer.
Quoting the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Shabnam Bashir projected a 12% increase in cancer cases over the next five years. She warned that these estimates may be conservative due to insufficient population-based cancer registries in India.
Globally, 2.3 million new breast cancer cases are reported annually, with India accounting for about 10% (around 223,000 cases) and resulting in approximately 100,000 deaths each year. The Kashmir state cancer registry indicates a recent 5% increase in breast cancer cases in the region.
Dr Bashir said this rise is due to lifestyle changes, urbanisation, food adulteration, pollution, radiation, chemicals in cosmetics, and stress. While increased awareness may lead to higher diagnosis rates, it also contributes to the overall rise in cancer incidence, she added.
According to the Regional Cancer Registry for Kashmir (2014-2016), 5,336 new breast cancer cases were registered at SKIMS, Soura, equating to about five new cases daily in the hospital. Data reveals that Srinagar district has the highest incidence, followed by Baramulla.
Dr Shabnam said that currently, 1 in every 28 Indian women is at risk of developing breast cancer, with urban women facing a higher risk (1 in 22) compared to rural women (1 in 60). “There is a need to address modifiable risk factors such as smoking, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and unhealthy diets, alongside non-modifiable factors like age and family history,” she stressed.
Worryingly, breast cancers in India are occurring a decade earlier than in Western countries. There has been a notable increase in young-age breast cancer and more aggressive types such as Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC).
The onco-surgeon called for creating mass awareness through public-private partnerships and collaborations to encourage early medical intervention. “While advancements have been made in cancer treatment, there is an urgent need for a focus on preventive oncology to reduce cancer incidence and alleviate the burden on healthcare systems,” she added.
Cancer prevention and early detection are crucial for reducing the risk of developing cancer and improving the chances of successful treatment. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do and what to avoid:
Cancer Prevention
Do’s:
- Maintain a Healthy Diet:
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Include foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables.
- Opt for lean proteins and healthy fats like fish, olive oil, and avocados.
- Exercise Regularly:
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
- Incorporate activities like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
- Avoid Tobacco:
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption:
- If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For women, this means up to one drink a day, and for men, up to two drinks a day.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun:
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning beds and limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
- Get Vaccinated:
- Vaccinate against viruses that can cause cancer, such as HPV (human papillomavirus) and Hepatitis B.
- Regular Screenings and Check-ups:
- Follow recommended screening guidelines for cancers such as breast, cervical, colon, and prostate.
- Visit your healthcare provider regularly for check-ups.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight:
- Keep your body weight within a healthy range.
- Monitor your BMI and make lifestyle changes if necessary.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Excessive Red and Processed Meat:
- Limit consumption of red meat and processed meats like bacon, sausages, and deli meats.
- Stay Away from Harmful Chemicals:
- Avoid exposure to carcinogenic substances like asbestos, certain pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
- Minimize Radiation Exposure:
- Limit unnecessary medical imaging tests that use radiation, such as X-rays and CT scans.
- Limit Sugary Drinks and Refined Carbs:
- Reduce intake of sugary beverages and foods high in refined sugars and carbohydrates.
Early Detection
Do’s:
- Know the Signs and Symptoms:
- Be aware of common symptoms of cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, changes in bowel habits, unusual bleeding, or lumps.
- Regular Self-Exams:
- Perform regular self-exams for breast, skin, and testicular cancer.
- Follow Screening Guidelines:
- Adhere to recommended screening schedules for various types of cancer based on your age, gender, and family history.
- Keep Health Records Updated:
- Maintain a record of your medical history, including any family history of cancer, and share it with your healthcare provider.
Don’ts:
- Ignore Symptoms:
- Do not dismiss unusual or persistent symptoms. Seek medical advice promptly if you notice any changes.
- Skip Screenings:
- Do not skip regular cancer screenings or check-ups. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
- Avoid Medical Advice:
- Do not rely solely on alternative therapies or home remedies without consulting a healthcare professional.
Summary
Preventing cancer involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating well, exercising, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol. Early detection requires regular screenings, being aware of symptoms, and following medical advice. Together, these practices can significantly reduce the risk of cancer and improve the chances of successful treatment.
