What New ICMR Study Reveals About Breast Cancer Risks in Indian Women?
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Synopsis
A recent study by ICMR reveals alarming insights about breast cancer risks among Indian women, emphasizing the need for early screening and lifestyle interventions. With rising incidence rates, understanding these specific risk factors is crucial for prevention and timely intervention.
Key Takeaways
- Reproductive timing and hormonal exposure are significant risk factors.
- Women with late menopause and higher age at pregnancy are at increased risk.
- Central obesity is a key concern, with waist-to-hip ratio being critical.
- Early screening is vital for women, especially in their 40s.
- Adopting healthier lifestyles may reduce breast cancer risk.
New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) A groundbreaking study by researchers at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has unveiled crucial risk factors contributing to breast cancer among women in India.
Breast cancer ranks among the top three cancers affecting women in India, with projections indicating a yearly increase of approximately 5.6%, leading to an estimated additional 0.05 million new cases annually.
The ICMR’s National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) team in Bengaluru performed a thorough review and meta-analysis of 31 studies involving 27,925 participants, where 45% of them were diagnosed with breast cancer.
The results, published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, revealed that factors such as reproductive timing, hormonal exposure, central obesity, and family history significantly influence breast cancer risk among Indian women.
According to the researchers, women experiencing late menopause (beyond 50 years), having their first pregnancy after 30 years of age, marrying at an older age, undergoing multiple abortions, and possessing central obesity (waist-to-hip ratio exceeding 85 cm) are at heightened risk.
Moreover, lifestyle factors such as poor sleep quality, irregular sleep patterns, exposure to light while sleeping, and high-stress levels were positively correlated with risk, while increased physical activity showed a protective effect.
The analysis indicated that women over 50 years face a three-fold increase in risk, while those aged 35-50 years have a 1.63-fold elevated risk, underscoring the necessity for early screening in women in their forties.
However, variations in age classifications across studies may account for observed discrepancies. In developed nations, breast cancer incidence notably rises after 50 years, predominantly among postmenopausal women.
Conversely, India sees a comparatively higher incidence of breast cancer in younger women, particularly in their 40s and 50s.
The researchers, led by Saravanan Vijayakumar from ICMR-NCDIR, stated, “Genetic predisposition, earlier reproductive transitions, and unique lifestyle factors may lead to this difference. These findings emphasize the importance of early screening programs for women in this demographic to ensure timely detection and intervention.”
The study also noted the significance of low BMI as a potential risk factor affecting breast cancer prognosis and treatment outcomes. Given India’s high prevalence of abdominal obesity, lifestyle changes aimed at reducing waist circumference could be vital in breast cancer prevention.
Furthermore, the review pointed out the urgent need for large, comprehensive, population-based prospective cohort studies in India to accurately define strategies for breast cancer prevention and early detection.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of this study from the ICMR. The findings illuminate crucial risk factors that demand immediate attention and action. By prioritizing early screening and preventive measures, we can work towards reducing the alarming rise in breast cancer cases among women in India.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main risk factors for breast cancer in Indian women?
The main risk factors include reproductive timing, hormonal exposure, central obesity, and family history.
How does age affect breast cancer risk?
Women over 50 years have a three-fold risk, while those aged 35-50 years face a 1.63-fold increase in risk.
What lifestyle factors contribute to breast cancer risk?
Poor sleep quality, irregular sleep patterns, and high-stress levels have been positively associated with risk.
Why is early screening important?
Early screening is crucial for timely detection and intervention, especially for women in their 40s.
What lifestyle changes can help reduce breast cancer risk?
Lifestyle changes aimed at reducing abdominal obesity and increasing physical activity can be beneficial.
