Epidemiological Landscape of Breast Cancer in Northern India: A Narrative Review of Jammu and Kashmir

Breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger women across India, with the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) experiencing a similar shift. Limited regional data and poor screening access contribute to late diagnosis and high psychosocial burden, necessitating a synthesized evaluation of existing evidence. The objective of this review is to summarize and critically appraise the published literature on breast cancer in Jammu and Kashmir, with a specific focus on its epidemiology, clinical characteristics, molecular subtype distribution, awareness levels, and psychosocial determinants. A narrative review approach was adopted. Studies published in English and conducted within J&K were searched through PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies included those reporting epidemiology, staging, molecular patterns, risk awareness, and mental-health outcomes. Data were extracted and synthesized according to the study characteristics. A total of 12 studies were included. Findings revealed a younger pattern of onset, with most cases detected between the late 30s and early 60s. Late-stage presentation (≥ stage III) was predominant, especially in Kashmir. Infiltrating ductal carcinoma and HR+/HER2- subtype were the most common. Awareness and screening rates were low, particularly among women >40 years. High levels of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were reported among patients in Jammu. Mobile mammography initiatives showed high feasibility but poor follow-up linkage. Breast cancer in J&K is characterized by late diagnosis, distinct molecular patterns, limited awareness, and high psychological burden. Strengthening community-level screening, establishing population-based cancer registries, expanding mobile mammography programs, and integrating psycho-oncology into cancer care are crucial for improving early detection and outcomes in the UT.