The cause of breast cancer is unknown. Genetic factors may result in some families having a higher risk than others, but this is uncommon.

• There may also be a link with high levels of fat in the diet, and obesity
• Age and Gender — Unfortunately the age incidence also seems to be lower than that in the west—the average age in our country being from 35
• Genetic Factors and Family History of Breast Cancer : Only 5 to 10% of breast cancers may be linked to family history, however women who have a relative who has had breast cancer may face an increased risk of developing the disease. However, at least nine out of ten women who get breast cancer do not have a family history
• Early Menstruation and Late Menopause. Also, women who have never had children or who had them only after the age of 30 have an increased risk
• Long Term Use of Oral Contraceptives (birth control pills)
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Women who have cancer in one breast (they are at increased risk of developing cancer in the other)
• Women who are on high doses of oestrogen after menopause
• Exposure to Chemicals, Radiation

• Every three minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Every thirteen minute a woman dies from breast cancer
• It accounts for 20% of the total cancer-related diseases in India and is largely prevalent among urban women.  In India, younger urban women in the 30 to 55 age group are more vulnerable to breast cancer. Most cases are diagnosed late.
• Presently, 75,000 new cases occur in Indian women every year.
• Over the course of a lifetime, one in twenty two women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
• The Breast is an important psychological, physiological & aesthetic part of the female form. Therefore any disease state affects social, moral & physical balances in the woman’s life.
• The incidence of the disease was deemed to be high in the western hemisphere but of late there is an alarming increase in the number as well as the type of breast cancer cases being detected in India.
• Self-breast examination is the cheapest and best way of detecting such symptoms. Women must examine their breasts seven days after the periods,’’