BREAST CANCER REMAINS THE LEADING CAUSE OF CANCER-RELATED DEATHS AMONG WOMEN
In order to facilitate early screening and detection, a newly installed state-of-the-art mammography machine at Apex Diagnostic Clinic and Research Centre (ADC&RC), Dimapur, was inaugurated by Ruopfuzhano Whiso, Miss Universe India 2024, runners-up on Monday.
The inauguration coincided with the third anniversary of ADC&RC. In her address, Whiso highlighted the generational progress in women’s health awareness and emphasized the importance of such advancements in breast cancer detection. “This is a joyful day. Little victories like this pave the way for a better, healthier future,” she remarked.
A major highlight of the programme was a breast cancer awareness talk delivered by cancer surgeon, Dr. Denchu Phom. He addressed the alarming rise in breast cancer cases in India, stressing that it remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. “Most patients present themselves at very late stages, which drastically reduces the chances of successful treatment,” he noted.
Dr. Phom outlined various risk factors, including age (particularly over 40), family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, and long-term hormonal therapy use. He also underscored the importance of recognizing early symptoms such as painless lumps, nipple discharge, and changes in breast shape or skin texture.
To combat late diagnosis, Dr. Phom advocated for three main detection strategies—self-breast examination, clinical breast exams, and digital mammography. He emphasized that digital mammography is the most effective tool for early detection, capable of identifying tumors before they become palpable. “Early treatment can ensure up to 100% survival in many cases,” he added.
Citing global comparisons, Dr. Phom pointed out that survival rates in countries like South Korea and Israel exceed 80%, while India lagged behind at less than 60% due to delayed diagnosis.
He urged the attendees to become ambassadors of awareness in their communities, mentioning that “Correct information is half the battle won.”
Over the past three years, Dr. Phom said, he has operated on around 50 breast cancer patients aged between 36 and 78, with over 80% seeking treatment at advanced stages.
On the mammography machine, Dr. Worshim Khamrang Radiologist of ADC&RC explained that mammography is a specialized X-ray designed specifically for breast tissue. “This machine can detect cancer in its earliest form—sometimes just as a small dot invisible to the naked eye or undetectable by touch,” he said, showing an image of such an early-stage lesion.
He pointed out that in many Western countries, mammography screening is systematically integrated into public health policies. “Women above 40 are screened every two years, and those over 45 undergo screening annually. This has significantly improved survival rates and life expectancy related to breast cancer,” he said.
The radiologist emphasized that mammography is not only used for diagnosing suspicious cases but is even more vital as a screening tool. “Even without symptoms, women in the risk age group should undergo regular mammograms to catch cancer early—when it is most treatable.”
Regarding operational details, Dr. Khamrang informed that the mammography service at ADC&RC will be available during regular clinic hours (9 am to 4:30 pm). The cost for screening ranges from Rs. 2,500 to Rs.3,000, which includes ultrasound correlation—a necessary addition especially for patients with dense breast tissue, where mammogram readings can be challenging.
He added that results are generally available the following day to allow for thorough image analysis and ultrasound correlation. While there are other centers in Dimapur that have installed mammography machines, Dr. Khamrang stated that due to various operational challenges, they are not functioning optimally. “By popular demand and despite limited resources, we have set up this facility to meet that gap,” he said.
The event was chaired by Phangrei Rungsung., and a special welcome song was presented by the Apex team. Reverend Ngatangmi M Shimray of Tangkhul Baptist Church, Nagarjan, offered thanksgiving and dedicatory prayers.