Breast cancer cases among women are increasing rapidly in India, and this pace is a matter of concern. According to recent data, breast cancer cases in the country are increasing by about 6 percent every year. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed that its main causes are poor sleep, constant stress and increasing obesity around the abdomen. Due to this, young women are falling prey to this disease. Dr. Shubham Garg said that the risk of breast cancer is no longer limited to just age or family history. Due to changing lifestyle and metabolic problems, the risk of this disease is increasing rapidly, especially among urban women.

Relationship between sleep and breast cancer

Doctors say that sleep disturbances and changes in the body’s circadian rhythm can increase the risk of breast cancer. Poor sleep affects melatonin hormone levels, which upsets the balance of estrogen. Additionally, it weakens the immune system and DNA repair processes. Lack of sleep alone does not cause cancer, but when it is combined with obesity, stress and a sedentary lifestyle, the risk increases manifold.

Is poor sleep as important a risk factor as age and genetics?

According to Dr. Garg, age and genetic factors remain the strongest risk factors, but poor sleep is now emerging as an important modifiable risk factor. Many women do not report any family history of cancer, but prolonged lack of sleep, night shifts and high stress have caused them to develop breast cancer.

Why is abdominal obesity more dangerous?

Not only weight gain, but fat accumulated around the stomach is considered more dangerous. This fat increases inflammation, insulin resistance and estrogen levels. After menopause, this fat becomes the body’s main source of estrogen, which can promote hormone-sensitive breast cancer.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the risk?

Experts say that lifestyle changes, although cannot completely eliminate the risk of breast cancer, but can reduce it to a great extent. Good sleep, stress management, regular exercise and reducing belly fat improve hormonal balance and strengthen the body’s immune system. This also reduces the risk of cancer recurring after treatment.

Why are cases increasing at younger ages?

Breast cancer cases are increasing in women aged 35 to 50 years in India. Its causes are the same as in Western countries: sedentary lifestyle, late pregnancy, less breastfeeding, lack of sleep and constant stress. Late diagnosis is also a big problem in India.

When should screening start?
Doctors believe early and personalized screening may be necessary for women with risk factors such as obesity, sleep problems and high stress. In such cases, after age 30, a clinical breast exam, ultrasound, or, if necessary, mammography may be considered.