An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 11

Breast carcinoma is one of the most common and life-threatening types of cancer that threatens the lives of millions of people around the world. It is characterised by the abnormal growth of cells in the breast tissue, most commonly in the ducts and lobules. Australia/New Zealand, Western Europe and Northern America had the highest incidence rates (per 100,000) of 95.5, 90.7 and 89.4, respectively, while South-Central Asia, Middle and Eastern Africa, as well as Central America showed the lowest incidence rates for this region (26.2, 33 and 39.5, respectively). The highest breast cancer death rates were in Melanesia (37.50), Polynesia and Western Africa (22.30) and the Caribbean (18.90); the lowest rates occurred in Eastern Asia (9.80), Central America (10.40) and Australia/New Zealand (12.10), recorded in the year 2020. In the Indian population, it has become the leading cause of death, replacing cervical cancer, and accounts for nearly 25-32% of the total number of female cancers, with a higher incidence in the urban population due to changes in lifestyle, detection, and awareness. Several biological and environmental factors lead to the occurrence of breast carcinoma, and these include hormonal, genetic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors. For instance, the role of hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, is critical in the development and progression of most types of breast carcinoma, particularly those that are hormone receptor-positive. In addition, the use of hormone replacement therapy or hormonal contraceptives may slightly increase the risk in some individuals. Early detection of diseases using screening techniques such as mammography, ultrasonography, and self-examination is vital for improving survival rates. Modern developments in molecular biology and targeted therapy have greatly improved the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for the diseases. Modern therapeutic modalities for the diseases include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, tailored according to the molecular characteristics of the tumour. Overall, increasing awareness, providing access to screening, and using innovative therapeutic modalities are essential for reducing the burden of breast carcinoma and improving survival rates and quality of life for affected individuals worldwide.