Sociodemographic Profile, Reproductive Factors and Presentation Pattern in Breast Cancer Patients from North India: A...

Breast cancer is leading cause of cancer in women globally and in India, with rising incidence seen specially in North India. Aim was to evaluate sociodemographic, reproductive factors, presentation pattern and surgical complications among breast cancer patients in North India.

This prospective observational study included 101-biopsy-proven breast cancer patients undergoing axillary dissection at a tertiary center from January 2021 to December 2022. Demographic profile, reproductive history, tumor characteristics, and post-operative complications were recorded.

Mean age was 47.93 years with 97.03% females. Upper outer quadrant was most common site (56.67%) with 82% axillary lymph node positivity. ER/PR positive cases were 59%, HER2 positive 29%, TNBC 28%. Lymphedema occurred in 9.4%, seroma in 15.6%, and wound infection in 9%. Late presentation beyond 6 months was seen in 56.57%.

Breast cancer in North India affects women at younger age with advanced stage presentation. Awareness, early diagnosis and improving access to care are needed to reduce disease burden.