Breast Cancer Demographics, Types and Management Pathways: Can Western Algorithms be Optimally used in Eastern Countries?

Abstract

Over the past decade, breast cancer has overtaken cervical cancer to become the most common cancer among women in India, as in most Western nations. In addition to the high incidence, the morbidity and mortality associated with this malignancy are disproportionately higher in India. Although some efforts are being made to increase awareness about this disease, a large majority of Indian patients present with advanced disease. Here, important institutional data and treatment outcomes are reviewed and compared with data from the West. Additionally, we highlight recent efforts in setting up collaborative multicentre trials in breast cancer in India and suggest some ways forward to improve outcomes.