Shilpi Bariar
As per global cancer statistics GLOBOCAN 2020, breast cancer is the number one diagnosed cancer among women across the globe. For the first time in GLOBOCAN 2020, statistics show breast cancer has become the most diagnosed cancer, leaving behind lung cancer in low- and middle-income countries. As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the National Cancer Registry Programme Report 2020 incidence of breast cancer is 2 lakh (14.8%) of the total cancer burden. Further evidence of changing lifestyles due to urbanization and its influence on the incidence of breast cancer is increasing. Consequently, changing lifestyle factors are essential to consider when developing a strategy for breast cancer prevention and reducing the global burden of disease. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the incidence of breast cancer, coinciding with profound changes in the lifestyle of women in this urban setting. India, amidst rapid urbanization, stands at the crossroads of progress and public health challenges. As cities burgeon and lifestyles evolve, the specter of breast cancer looms larger, casting a shadow over the health landscape of urban women. Delving into statistical evidence provides crucial insights into the complex interplay between urbanization and the escalating incidence of breast cancer among Indian women. By examining the statistical trends and referencing pertinent studies, we can unravel the multifaceted relationship between changing lifestyles due to urbanization and the burgeoning breast cancer burden in India.
Statistical Trends in India: Statistical data underscores the alarming rise in breast cancer incidence across urban cities in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer has surpassed cervical cancer to become the leading cancer among Indian women, with urban areas bearing a disproportionate burden. Studies have revealed a significant urban-rural divide, with urban regions reporting higher breast cancer incidence rates compared to rural counterparts. For instance, a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research found that metropolitan areas exhibited a 1.5 to 2-fold higher incidence of breast cancer than rural areas, highlighting the profound impact of urbanization on disease prevalence.
Sedentary Lifestyles and Obesity: Urbanization catalyzes the proliferation of sedentary lifestyles characterized by desk-bound occupations, dependence on motorized transport, and reduced physical activity opportunities. Coupled with the influx of changed dietary patterns dominated by processed foods and high-calorie diets, urban communities are increasingly predisposed to obesity and metabolic syndromes, potent risk factors for breast cancer. Statistical studies corroborate this association, with studies such as the India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative reporting a rising prevalence of obesity among urban women, particularly in metropolitan areas like Delhi and Mumbai. The confluence of sedentary behaviours and dietary shifts emphasizes the breast cancer risk landscape, necessitating targeted interventions to promote physical activity and healthy eating habits among urban populations.
Reproductive Trends: The urban milieu engenders transformative shifts in reproductive behaviors, with delayed childbearing, declining fertility rates, and reduced parity becoming more commonplace among Indian women. Studies have elucidated a positive correlation between delayed childbirth and increased breast cancer risk, attributing this association to prolonged exposure to endogenous estrogen and reduced duration of breastfeeding. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data corroborates these findings, revealing a declining trend in fertility rates and breastfeeding practices among urban women in India. Addressing the implications of altered reproductive patterns on breast cancer incidence necessitates comprehensive reproductive health education and family planning initiatives tailored to urban contexts.
Environmental Exposures: Urban environments in India are fraught with myriad environmental pollutants and carcinogens, ranging from vehicular emissions and industrial effluents to indoor air contaminants and pesticide residues. Studies have highlighted the role of environmental exposures in fuelling the breast cancer epidemic among urban women, with urban residents facing heightened risks due to chronic exposure to airborne pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives has identified urban air pollution as a significant risk factor for breast cancer, emphasizing the urgent need for stringent regulatory measures and pollution control strategies to safeguard women’s health in urban India.
Conclusion: As India undergoes rapid urbanization, the escalating burden of breast cancer among urban women demands urgent attention and concerted action. By leveraging statistical evidence and referencing pertinent studies, we can elucidate the intricate nexus between changing lifestyles due to urbanization and the burgeoning breast cancer epidemic in India. Empowering women with knowledge, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, enhancing reproductive health awareness, and advocating for environmental stewardship are imperative to mitigate the adverse impact of urbanization on breast cancer incidence and foster a future of health equity for all women in India.
Authors Biography
Shilpi Bariar has worked as science administrator in University scientific Administration.Presently she is working as Grant Manager in School of Natural Sciences Shiv Nadar Institute of Eminence Delhi/NCR.
