India faces a growing threat of undetected breast cancer in women. Breast cancers currently account for 14% of all cancers among women. Today, one in every 22 women in urban India and one in every 60 women in rural India is at risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer impacts over 1.5 million women each year, and also causes the greatest number of cancer-related deaths among women.

The number of breast cancer cases reported each year is unfortunately rising at higher rates than ever. While there are many reasons for this, one of the most pertinent one is lack of awareness and timely diagnosis of the disease – a shortcoming we need to address in all genders – ‘Creating Mass Awareness’. But what else can we do? Enlisted are some know-hows to strengthen our fight against the disease, that has more than just exercising and eating right to it.

1. Maintain healthy habits – Adopting a healthy lifestyle has many benefits and one of them is sticking off of cancerous cells like that of breast cancer. It is advisable to reduce the consumption of alcohol, and to not smoke. Maintaining a balanced diet and eating fruits and vegetables on a regular basis has always served the purpose.

1. Physical fitness – Gaining weight also increases the risk of developing breast cancer as an adult. Hence, it is also advisable to keep your weight in check. Regular exercising and workout can decrease the chances of developing breast cancer.

1. Spreading social awareness in men – While it is imperative that women know of the causes, treatment and prevention of the disease, it is also pertinent for men to be aware of the disease. The clinical experiences and education on the disease is one of the many first steps we can take to prevent the social stigma around breast cancer. Let’s all spread more awareness in men too, to enlighten them in motivating more women to get diagnosed and tested early!

1. Fact: No Diagnosis No Treatment – Diagnostic imaging saves lives and is central to this disease’s management. Afterall, without diagnosis there can be no treatment and thus no cure.

1. Notice the changes – Any changes in breasts, such as any lump or changes in the skin, should be consulted with a doctor. Ignoring these signs may prove to be fatal.

1. Early detection via Mammography – Regular mammography checkups can help in timely diagnosis of the disease. Women however, refrain from the mammography checkup due to the fear of test results and the pain that X-rays cause during the examination. However, some new technological advancements have made new digital mammography systems painless and fearless. Thanks to digital imaging with modern detectors, mammograms today are much faster as well. Hence, it is advisable to keep these checkups regular. In case you still have not undergone one, do schedule it now!