Awareness of breast cancer symptoms and risk factors among urban Delhi women.

Abstract

e24102 Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among Indian women, and late presentation continues to contribute substantially to advanced-stage disease at diagnosis. Limited knowledge of breast cancer symptoms and risk factors, along with suboptimal help-seeking behavior, represents a major barrier to early detection. Most existing Indian studies assessing breast cancer awareness have relied on non-validated assessment methods. In contrast, this study employed the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM), a validated instrument, to evaluate breast cancer awareness and reproductive risk factors among women residing in urban resettlement communities in Delhi. Methods: Between August and October 2022, a community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Nandnagri, East Delhi. Women aged ≥18 years who had resided in the area for at least six months were recruited using systematic random sampling. Women with a personal or first-degree family history of breast cancer were excluded. Participants completed the validated Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM), translated into Hindi using forward–backward translation, along with a structured questionnaire assessing reproductive and lifestyle risk factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Of the 127 eligible women, 103 (81.1%) agreed, and 100 were included. The average age was 36.4 years; 78% were married, while 57% were homemakers. Breast cancer symptoms were poorly understood: only 41% recognized a painless breast lump, 32% identified new breast lumps, 28% recognized nipple discharge, and 19% identified breast size or form alterations. Only 22% had ever self-examined their breasts, and 9% did so every month. Help-seeking behavior was low, with just 14% saying that they would contact a doctor right away if they experienced any worrisome symptoms. Risk factors were also poorly understood: 29% identified family history, 24% identified rising age, and 18% recognized early menarche or late menopause as risk factors. Breastfeeding was prevalent among pregnant women (77%), with a mean duration of 46.8 months, yet only 11% were aware of its benefits. Conclusions: Breast cancer awareness in this urban resettlement community was low, with significant gaps in symptom detection, risk-factor knowledge, and appropriate help-seeking behavior. Using a validated evaluation technique yielded solid insights into community needs. Targeted educational initiatives may enhance early diagnosis and lower the burden of late-stage breast cancer in similar metropolitan areas.