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Study: 13% of Indian Breast Cancer Cases Metastasize
20 Apr
Summary
- Nearly 13% of over 76,000 Indian women experienced breast cancer metastasis.
- Bone was identified as the most frequent site for cancer spread.
- Higher metastasis risk observed in recent diagnoses (2015-2020).
A significant study analyzing over 76,000 Indian women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2009 and 2020 found that approximately 13% developed metastasis. Bone emerged as the most frequent site for cancer spread, accounting for about 25.1% of metastatic cases. The analysis, published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia, indicated a higher risk of metastasis for diagnoses from 2015-2020 compared to 2009-2014.
Researchers identified that tumor burden and nodal involvement were strong predictors of metastasis. Larger tumors (over three centimeters), higher tumor grade, and lympho-vascular invasion were significantly associated with metastatic disease. Interestingly, age and comorbidity did not independently predict metastasis, suggesting tumor biology plays a primary role.
The study also highlighted disparities in metastasis incidence based on healthcare settings, with lower rates reported in private and NGO hospitals. Experts recommend expanding community-based screening and improving referral pathways to specialized cancer centers for earlier detection and reduced metastasis.
