India, Oct. 17 -- Breast cancer ranks among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in women across India. Over the years, the number of cases has been steadily rising, making awareness, early detection, and timely treatment more important than ever. Identifying the disease in its early stages can significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives. Over the last two decades, India has seen a steady rise in breast cancer cases, especially in urban areas such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The reasons for this increase are complex and include lifestyle changes, delayed childbearing, reduced breastfeeding, obesity, stress, and lack of physical activity. However, rural areas are also witnessing more cases as awareness grows and diagnostic facilities improve. Breast cancer is not only a disease of older women. In India, nearly 50% of patients are below 50 years of age, a much younger age profile compared to Western countries. This makes awareness and preventive action even more critical. Breast cancer begins when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. These cells can form a lump or mass and, if untreated, may spread to other parts of the body. The exact cause of breast cancer is not known; however, certain risk factors increase the chance of developing the disease: While some risk factors, such as age, family history, or genetics (including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations), are beyond individual control, lifestyle choices like maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and alcohol avoidance can help mitigate risk. Early detection saves lives. Every woman should be aware of the common warning signs, including: Not all lumps are cancer, but any persistent changes should be evaluated promptly. Women should perform a Breast Self-Examination (BSE) every month, preferably a week after their menstrual cycle, and report any changes to a doctor. Regular clinical breast examinations and screening mammograms after the age of 40 (or earlier for high-risk women) are essential tools for early detection. Despite medical advances, many breast cancer cases in India are diagnosed at a late stage. Lack of awareness, social stigma, fear, and limited access to healthcare facilities are major barriers. In rural and semi-urban areas, women often ignore early symptoms or hesitate to seek help due to cultural reasons. By the time they visit a doctor, the cancer may already have spread, making treatment more difficult. Modern treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and targeted drugs, have significantly improved survival rates. Many leading hospitals and cancer centres in India now offer world-class care. Importantly, survivorship and psychological support programmes are helping women return to normal life after treatment. Awareness is the first step in the fight against breast cancer. Schools, workplaces, and community organisations can educate women about screening and healthy lifestyle habits. Keeping a healthy weight, staying away from smoking and alcohol, following a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can significantly help lower the risk of breast cancer. Early detection offers the best chance of a cure; over 90% of early-stage breast cancers can be successfully treated....