Volume 20 Issue 4 2025

Breast cancer is a malignant disease marked by uncontrolled growth of breast cells due to genetic mutations either inherited (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2) or acquired that disrupt normal cell cycle regulation; these abnormal cells typically arise in ducts or lobules, forming tumors that may invade nearby tissues or metastasize. It is classified into non-invasive types like ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive types such as invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma , with subtypes defined by receptor status: hormone receptor-positive, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), each influencing prognosis and treatment. Clinical signs include lumps, changes in breast shape or skin texture, nipple discharge or retraction, redness, swelling, or peau d’orange appearance. chemotherapy, hormone therapy (tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors), and targeted agents (trastuzumab for HER2-positive tumors). In India, breast cancer has emerged as the most common cancer among women, with an estimated 192,000 to 200,000 new cases diagnosed annually during 2024–2025. This alarming rise is driven by lifestyle changes, urbanization, and limited awareness, especially in rural areas. Tragically, for every two women diagnosed, one loses her life to the disease, making breast cancer the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian women. The burden is highest among women aged 30 to 69, and while urban centers offer better access to diagnostics and treatment, many in semi-urban and rural regions face delays due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure. With over half a million women currently living with breast cancer in India, early detection, public education, and equitable access to care are critical to reversing this trend.