Healthy Soch
With breast cancer emerging as the most common cancer among the 15–39 age group, reputed oncologist Dr. Radheshyam Naik says Indian women below 40 must pay attention
India
healthysoch
Bengaluru/New Delhi, October 12, 2026:
Breast cancer is largely perceived as a disease that affects older women. However, data shows it is also a significant concern among younger Indian women. According to estimates from India’s National Cancer Registry Programme, breast cancer accounted for over 27% of all cancer cases among women aged 15–39 in 2022, making it the most common cancer in this age group.
The findings go against the commonly held misconception that younger women are mostly beyond the risk of breast cancer. Ignoring a lump in the breast or other changes due to one’s young age can delay diagnosis and treatment. This was said by Dr. Radheshyam Naik, Senior Medical Oncologist at Sammprada Hospital, Bengaluru, during the ongoing Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Explained Dr. Radheshyam Naik: “One of the biggest misconceptions about breast cancer is that it is a disease women need to worry about only after a certain age. The reality is that younger women can also develop breast cancer, and age alone should never be a reason to dismiss a likely symptom. Any new or persistent breast lump, change in breast shape or size, skin dimpling, nipple inversion or unusual nipple discharge needs to be shown to a doctor. While not every breast change is cancer, it is important to establish the cause rather than ignore it.”
Younger women may continue to overlook warning signs of breast cancer because they do not consider themselves at risk, tend to attribute symptoms to hormonal fluctuations or some other cause, or keep postponing doctor visit due to work or family commitments.
“Women should become familiar with what is normal for their breasts and see a doctor if they notice a new or unusual change. Equally important, they should understand that breast awareness is not a substitute for proper screening or diagnostic tests. The right course of action depends on a woman’s age, symptoms, personal medical history and risk factors. If a suspicious change is identified, the priority is to investigate it promptly rather than wait for it to resolve on its own,” Dr. Naik added.
Family history is another area where misconceptions can create a false sense of security, according to the doctor. Although inherited genetic factors can increase risk, the absence of a known family history does not rule out breast cancer.
While greater awareness is the first step, access to medical advice, appropriate diagnostic facilities and timely follow-up are equally important in helping women tackle a suspected breast cancer diagnosis. Said Dr. Naik: “Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a promising tool in breast cancer detection, with the potential to help radiologists identify suspicious abnormalities in mammograms, improve the consistency of image interpretation and give priority to cases that require closer examination. AI-assisted imaging technologies can play an important role in supporting earlier diagnosis and improving the efficiency of breast cancer screening.”
Dr. Naiks said that understanding the risk factors and making informed lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. “It is important for women to understand that breast cancer is influenced by a combination of factors, and no lifestyle measure can guarantee prevention. However, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active and making informed health choices can contribute to reducing risk. Equally important is recognising personal risk factors and consulting a doctor if any unusual breast changes occur. Women should not blame themselves if they develop breast cancer, nor assume that a healthy lifestyle eliminates the possibility of the disease,” he added.
