A small change in the breast, an unusual discharge or a slight change in skin texture may seem harmless, but sometimes these are early warning signs of breast cancer. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, healthcare experts are urging women to pay closer attention to their breast health, recognise unusual changes and seek medical advice without delay.

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. While medical advancements have significantly improved treatment outcomes, delayed diagnosis continues to be a major concern. Many women ignore early symptoms because there is no pain, while others hesitate to consult a doctor due to fear, social stigma or lack of awareness.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer’s GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, India recorded approximately 1.92 lakh new breast cancer cases and 98,337 deaths, with breast cancer accounting for 26.6% of all newly diagnosed cancers among women.

The concern is equally relevant in Telangana. According to the Telangana government’s Cancer Portal, approximately 30.35 lakh women’s cancer screenings were conducted between March 2023 and March 2026. The state reports an overall cancer incidence rate of 125 per lakh population, highlighting the importance of strengthening cancer awareness and early detection efforts.

Dr. Santosh Kumar Chellapuram, Consultant Medical Oncology and Hematology-Oncology at STAR Hospitals, Hyderabad, said, “One of the biggest misconceptions about breast cancer is that it always begins with a painful lump. In reality, early breast cancer may not cause pain or any obvious discomfort. Women should never ignore changes in breast shape, skin texture or unusual nipple discharge. When detected early, breast cancer is often highly treatable, and timely medical attention can make a significant difference to survival and quality of life.”

Doctors advise women to watch for warning signs such as a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple inversion, unusual discharge, persistent swelling or redness. Although these symptoms do not necessarily indicate cancer, they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Age, family history, inherited genetic changes, obesity after menopause, alcohol consumption and certain hormonal factors can increase breast cancer risk. However, women without a family history can also develop the disease.

Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco can contribute to better overall health and may help reduce cancer risk. Women should become familiar with the normal appearance and feel of their breasts and discuss appropriate clinical examinations and mammography screening with their doctors based on age and individual risk.

Dr. Chellapuram further emphasised, “Fear should never become a reason for delaying diagnosis. A breast lump does not automatically mean cancer, but ignoring it can be dangerous. Our message to women is simple: know your body, recognise unusual changes and seek medical advice early. Breast cancer awareness should not be limited to October; it must become a year-round priority.”

With increasing awareness, improved diagnostic facilities and advances in cancer treatment, breast cancer is no longer a diagnosis without hope. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the message is clear: early detection can save lives, and a timely consultation could make all the difference.