Unravelling Breast Cancer Risks and Early Detection Barriers in Above 30-Year-Old Women in Puducherry, India

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women all over the world and one of the most treatable cancers if detected early. The objective was to find out the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and various factors associated with its development, and to identify various barriers to early detection of breast cancer among women in Puducherry. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 women who attended the outpatient department in the selected urban primary health centre. A proforma recorded information on sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors for breast cancer, and barriers to early detection of breast cancer. The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer was calculated using the Snehita breast cancer risk calculator. Conclusions: The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is much higher among the study participants.