IIT Madras Survey Reveals 75% of Women in Chennai Skip Breast Cancer Screening

A recent survey conducted by IIT Madras in Chennai has unveiled a concerning trend regarding breast cancer screening among women. The preliminary findings indicate that approximately 75% of the 102 women surveyed have never participated in breast cancer screening. Many respondents cited the absence of symptoms as their primary reason for not seeking screening, raising significant concerns about awareness and access to preventive healthcare services in the city.

The survey, which was carried out in collaboration with AIIMS Delhi, serves as a precursor to an ICMR-supported project aimed at utilizing ultrasound images to predict the spread of breast cancer to lymph nodes. Released during Pink October, which is recognized globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the findings underscore the urgent need for improved awareness and healthcare services tailored to women's needs.

Among the respondents, whose median age was 38, only 27 women reported having undergone screening at least once. Alarmingly, while 72.5% recognized a lump as a potential symptom of breast cancer, only 45.1% identified skin changes, and just 37.3% were aware of peeling skin as a symptom. Notably, nearly 25% of the participants failed to recognize any of the six symptoms listed in the survey, highlighting a critical gap in knowledge.

Healthcare professionals involved in the study emphasized that screening should be accessible to all women, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms. Dr. Bagyam Raghavan, a senior consultant radiologist in Chennai, pointed out that early detection is crucial in reducing treatment burdens and healthcare costs. The survey also revealed that a significant majority of women preferred to be screened by female healthcare providers, indicating a demand for services that prioritize privacy and comfort.

As breast cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer among women in Tamil Nadu, with the state registry reporting a crude incidence rate of 35.6 per lakh women, the findings of this survey are particularly timely. The researchers advocate for the inclusion of age- and risk-appropriate screening in insurance plans to facilitate access. They stress that advancements in detection methods must be paired with increased awareness and supportive policies to ensure early identification of breast cancer.