Doctor busts five myths that delay breast cancer care in India

Misconceptions about breast cancer are causing Indian women to seek treatment only after the disease reaches advanced stages, says surgical oncologist Dr Swarnim Kumar. Patients often wait until stage III or IV before seeing a doctor, missing the window when cure rates are highest.

Myths Debunked

First, early tumours rarely hurt; pain usually signals harmless cysts, so waiting for pain can let cancer spread. Second, 75‑85 % of cases occur in women with no family history and only 5‑10 % are linked to inherited genes, meaning most women remain at risk even without relatives affected. Third, a core‑needle biopsy safely confirms cancer and reveals hormone‑receptor or HER2 status; the fear that it spreads cells stops many from getting tested. Fourth, in India almost half of breast‑cancer patients are under 50, many diagnosed in their 30s, and tumors in younger women tend to grow faster and be more aggressive. Fifth, mastectomy is not the only surgery; breast‑conserving surgery removes the tumour while preserving breast shape, and reconstruction options are widely available. Kumar stressed that any new lump, nipple discharge or skin change should prompt an immediate doctor visit, ultrasound or mammogram, regardless of age, pain or family history. Early detection allows less aggressive treatment and can push survival rates above 90 %.

Context

Breast‑cancer myths often persist in India, leading women to delay screening even though most cases arise without a family history and affect younger age groups.