October 28, 2025 : As per the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer caused an estimated 670 000 deaths globally in 2022, making this an important disease to be aware of. Dr Sudipto De, an oncologist is sounding the alarm: breast cancer is no longer a disease exclusive to women over 50.
In a recent Instagram post, he shared a stark reality: the average age for breast cancer in India is 45, and cases among women in their 20s and 30s are on the rise. Dr De, who practices at Metro Heart Institute with Multispecialty, Faridabad, highlighted this in an October 27 Instagram post, writing, “Even young women in their 30s can get breast cancer. Awareness can save lives.”
Alarming breast cancer statistics
In the video he posted, Dr De discussed the occurrence of breast cancer in younger women, challenging the common association of the disease primarily with those over 50. He further explained that risk factors for this younger onset include genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, family history, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, stress, and delaying marriage and childbearing.
According to Dr De, “Breast Cancer in young women is on the rise — even in their 20s and 30s. Nearly 15-20 percent of all cases in India occur under the age of 40. Why? Genetic causes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, lifestyle factors: obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol, stress, delayed childbirth or no breastfeeding.”
Summary:
An Indian cancer surgeon revealed that the average age of breast cancer patients in India is lower than global averages, with nearly 15% of cases occurring in women under 40 years.