Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Aug 20: Breast cancer has emerged as one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, including in Jammu & Kashmir, where its incidence is steadily rising.
Health experts say that timely awareness about its causes, consequences, and preventive measures can play a key role in reducing its burden.
Dr Aijaz Shah, an oncologist, said breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a lump or mass.
“It usually begins in the ducts (which carry milk to the nipple) or the lobules (which produce milk). While women are at a higher risk, men can also develop breast cancer, though rarely,” he said.
Dr Shah said there is no single cause of breast cancer; rather, it results from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors.
“Mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk,” he said. “Early menstruation, late menopause, and hormone replacement therapy can raise susceptibility.”
According to Dr Shah, the lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and an unhealthy diet are contributing factors.
He said a woman with close relatives who had breast or ovarian cancer is at higher risk.
Dr Zahoor Ahmad Mir, another oncologist, said that if not detected and treated early, breast cancer can spread (metastasise) to other parts of the body, such as bones, liver, or lungs. This leads to serious health complications, loss of quality of life, and can be fatal. Apart from the physical toll, it also causes emotional trauma for patients and families, as well as financial stress due to prolonged treatment, he added.
While some risk factors like genetics cannot be controlled, he said that certain lifestyle changes and preventive steps to lower risk.
“Self-breast examination, clinical check-ups, and mammography after the age of 40 help in early detection.,” Dr Mir said. “Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking significantly reduces risk.”
He said studies suggest that breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer. Dr Zahoor added that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in processed food supports overall health.
“Recognising early warning signs such as a breast lump, unusual discharge, or changes in breast shape/skin can lead to timely medical advice,” he said.
Doctors said breast cancer is treatable if detected early, adding that awareness, regular check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are the strongest tools to fight this disease.
They urge women not to ignore symptoms and to seek medical consultation at the earliest.
