Breast cancer a silent killer: 1 in 2 women succumbs, warns Dr. Jadunath Buragohain

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 4, 2025

Breast cancer remains one of the deadliest diseases for women in India, with every second patient succumbing to it due to late diagnosis and lack of awareness, warned leading cancer specialist Dr. Jadunath Buragohain.

Speaking at an awareness program organized by Arhi Hospital, Jorabat, on the occasion of World Cancer Day, Dr. Buragohain highlighted the alarming rise in cancer cases in Assam and across India.

Citing the GLOBOCAN 2020 report, he revealed that 1,78,361 women were diagnosed with breast cancer, out of which 90,408 lost their lives, indicating that one in every two breast cancer patients does not survive. The primary cause, he stressed, is the lack of awareness and early detection.

“Women often seek medical help only when the disease has progressed to 70-80%, leaving them with little chance of survival. Regular breast check-ups and early consultations with health professionals can save lives,” Dr. Buragohain urged.

Beyond breast cancer, he also pointed to the rising cases of ENT and oesophagal (food pipe) cancer in Assam and the Northeast, surpassing the national average. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey, 45.7% of people above 15 years old in Assam and the Northeast consume tobacco and its products, compared to the national average of 28%. Excessive tobacco use has directly contributed to a surge in the head, neck, and oesophagal cancer cases in the region, he warned.

Alarmingly, Kamrup Metro in Assam and Khasi Hills in Meghalaya now record the highest number of ENT and food pipe cancer cases in the world, making the Northeast a cancer hotspot.

To further raise awareness, Arhi Hospital also conducted a cancer awareness rally in the city, emphasizing early detection, lifestyle changes, and the importance of quitting tobacco. The program was attended by leading oncologists, including Dr. Atul Kalita, Dr. Arunaima Goswami, Dr. Mahamaya Prasad Singh, Dr. Dhiren Choudhury, and Dr. K. Ahmed.

The event concluded with a strong call for action, urging the government, healthcare professionals, and the public to work together in combating the rising cancer crisis through education, screening programs, and improved healthcare infrastructure.