A Surge in Breast Cancer Cases Among Young Women in Their 30s

Currently, there is a concerning trend of increased breast cancer cases, especially among young women in their 30s. However, breastfeeding is known to cut down the risk of breast cancer in new mothers. Every year, World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated from August 1st to August 7th, breastfeeding is a significant aspect of motherhood, symbolizing the completion of a woman’s femininity. Breast milk acts as a natural protective shield for the baby. New mothers who breastfeed their babies will be able to prevent breast cancer and stay healthy throughout life.

Dr. Mrunal Parab, a surgical oncologist at TGH-Onco Life Cancer Center, said, “Breast cancer develops from breast cells, typically starting in the lobules or ducts that produce and transport milk to the nipple. It can also be seen in the fatty and fibrous breast tissues, known as stromal tissue. Women who choose not to breastfeed face a double risk of developing breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Women who breastfeed are less likely to develop breast cancer compared to those who avoid it. By 2030, one in 29 women in India is expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer. Currently, less than 60% of women in India diagnosed with breast cancer survive for more than five years. However, women who breastfeed for a year or more can reduce their risk of breast cancer by approximately 20%.”

Dr Parab further added, “ As the number of young breast cancer patients rises, treating them and preserving fertility post-treatment becomes challenging. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are critical steps in cancer treatment, and none can be skipped. Young patients often prefer breast-conserving surgery, which involves removing the tumor entirely in the early stages of breast cancer, before chemotherapy and radiation. Breast cancer incidence is higher among women aged 30 to 50. In such cases, breast-conserving surgery, which removes only the cancerous part of the breast and nearby lymph nodes while preserving healthy breast tissue, can effectively address the issue without removing the entire breast.”