Awareness of Breast Cancer and Its Risk Factors Among Medical Students of North India

Introduction  Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among women in India. Early detection and prevention are crucial, and medical students play a vital role in promoting awareness. Objective This study assessed how well undergraduate medical students in North India understand breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, screening, and treatment. Methods  A cross-sectional study using a 30-item, semi-structured, self-developed questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms. The questions covered general awareness; biological, reproductive, and lifestyle risk factors; as well as screening practices. Students from different MBBS academic years participated. Responses were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.2, applying descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify associations, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results  A total of 307 students responded, nearly two-thirds of whom were female. The most recognized key risk factors were family history (94.1%), smoking and alcohol consumption (86.3%), and childhood radiation exposure (87.3%). Awareness of biological risks such as early menstruation (71.7%) and late menopause (67.4%) was moderate. However, knowledge about reproductive risks was weaker: only 58% recognized nulliparity, 59% were aware of hormone replacement therapy as a risk factor, and 55% identified late first childbirth. Screening knowledge showed similar gaps. While 87% had heard of breast self-examination (BSE), only one-third knew the correct timing. Less than half were aware that mammography is advised in the 40s and 50s, and only 66% realized that breast cancer can occur without pain or a lump. Conclusion  Undergraduate medical students in North India demonstrated moderate awareness of breast cancer, with notable gaps in understanding lifestyle-related risk factors and screening methods. Strengthening medical curricula and integrating breast cancer awareness programs are essential to enhance students' knowledge and their future role in community health promotion.