Recently, a 14-year-old girl from Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly sought treatment at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi for treatment of advanced breast cancer. Remarkably, the cancer developed significantly since she first noticed a painless lump near her breast at the age of nine. Initially painless, the lump grew over the years, eventually causing discomfort and discharging pus. Only then did her family seek medical help, underscoring the critical need for early detection. The girl is currently undergoing treatment at the institute.

Instances of such early-onset breast cancer are not uncommon in specialised hospitals like AIIMS. Dr GK Rath, former Chief of AIIMS Cancer Hospital, noted that cases of breast cancer in young girls, though rare, are not unprecedented. Also having treated a patient as young as 12 years old, he emphasised the importance of awareness and regular self-examinations among women and girls from a young age.

Dr Rath emphasised the criticality of early detection, stating that while breast cancer cannot be prevented, early detection leads to successful treatment in 95 percent of cases. Regular self-examinations are therefore crucial for women. Additionally, mothers should monitor their daughters to detect any abnormalities early on. He urged women to conduct monthly self-examinations and seek medical advice.

The exact causes of breast cancer remain largely unknown, with only 10 percent of cases linked to genetic factors. The majority of cases, about 90 percent, have unidentified origins. Dr Rath advised women to remain vigilant for symptoms such as lumps, bleeding, or discharge from the breast, or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, and to consult a doctor promptly if any changes are noted. He also advised vigilance, particularly among women with a family history of breast cancer, those unmarried or childless, or above 30 years old.

Dr Rath also addressed few misconceptions that are common among women, noting that some dismiss lumps in the breast if they cause no pain, potentially delaying diagnosis. He stressed that consulting a doctor is crucial, as a simple ultrasound could provide valuable information without the need for a mammogram.

In conclusion, Dr Rath urged women and girls to prioritise breast health and consult healthcare professionals promptly with any concerns. Early intervention, he stressed, significantly improves the prospects of successful treatment for breast cancer.