- Breast Cancer is a Major Health Concern Globally
- 1 in 100 Women above 45 years Undergo Mammography in India
Breast Cancer remains a major public health concern globally, and early detection through mammography screening plays a crucial role in reducing mortality. According to a recent study in BMC Public Health titled "Prevalance and Associated Factors of Mammography Uptake Among Women Aged 45 Years and Above: Policy Implications from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India Wave I Survey" reveals that only 1.3 per cent of women aged 45 and above in India undergo mammography for breast cancer screening, highlighting gaps in awareness, accessibility, and utilization of early detection programs.
The figure is alarming as the majority of breast cancers in India are diagnosed in this age group. It also notes that a low proportion of the Indian female population in the reproductive age group (30-49 years) underwent breast cancer screening.
Key Findings:
Age Disparities: Mammography uptake was slightly higher among women aged 45-59 years (1.7 per cent) compared to those aged above (0.9 per cent).
Socioeconomic Factors: Women with higher education levels and greater wealth were more likely to undergo mammography.
Urban vs Rural: Urban residents had higher screening rates than their rural counterparts.
Healthcare Access: Regular interactions with healthcare providers and having health insurance were positively associated with increased screening rates.
The study also revealed barriers such as lack of physician recommendations, cost concerns, and emotional hesitations were identified as major deterrents. It says that only 1 in 100 women aged 45 and above undergo mammography in India, a rate lower than 4.5 per cent in African countries and 84 per cent in Europe and the US.
The report indicates that Kerala (4.5%) has the highest mammography prevalence in India, followed by Karnataka (2.9%), Lakshadweep (2.7%), and Maharashtra (2.05%), with Delhi having a rate of less than 1%.
