Shillong: Medical professionals in Meghalaya report a dangerous trend of women delaying breast cancer screenings. Patients often ignore lumps for three to six months. They frequently mistake these signs for harmless bodily changes. Dr. Harit K. Chaturvedi, CEO and Clinical Head of Apollo Oncology Network, says these delays cost lives.
India sees 2.25 lakh new breast cancer diagnoses every year. Cases are rising by roughly 2 to 2.5 percent annually. While the Northeast region faces significant cancer challenges, including high rates of food pipe and stomach cancers linked to tobacco, breast cancer requires specific focus. Dr. Chaturvedi noted that patients often fail to take symptoms seriously until too much time passes. "Early detection saves lives," he said.
Dr. Chaturvedi recommends medical assessment for any symptoms lasting more than three weeks. Women aged 40 and older should prioritize mammograms. Increased body weight, reproductive history, and diet also play a role in risk. However, he insists that early identification remains the primary priority.
Education should start in schools. Children need to learn about nutrition and physical activity to counter sedentary habits like excessive screen time. While treatment outcomes have improved over the last two decades, timing remains the most important factor in recovery. Self-examination while showering helps women identify unusual changes, but it does not replace professional medical advice.
Meghalaya must bridge the gap between awareness and access. Public health efforts must ensure women can easily obtain consultations and diagnostic investigations. A lump does not always equal cancer. Prompt evaluation is the only way to be certain.
Comments