Breast cancer emerges as growing health concern in Kashmir

Saqib Rather

Srinagar, June 15: Every week, dozens of women walk into cancer clinics across Kashmir carrying the same fear—a lump, an unusual swelling, or a symptom they ignored for months. For many, the diagnosis that follows is breast cancer, a disease doctors say is steadily increasing across the Valley and emerging as one of the biggest health concerns for women.

Health experts at major hospitals in Kashmir report a noticeable rise in breast cancer cases over the past several years, with a significant number of patients reaching hospitals at advanced stages of the disease. The trend has sparked concern among oncologists, who are calling for greater awareness and regular screening to improve early detection.
At the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), breast cancer has become one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women. Doctors say the disease is no longer confined to elderly patients and is increasingly being detected among women in their 30s and 40s.
“Ten to fifteen years ago, the number of breast cancer patients reporting to our hospitals was considerably lower. Today, we are seeing a clear rise in cases, and what is more concerning is that many women come to us when the disease has already progressed,” said Dr. Syed Masood Ahmad, a senior oncologist in Srinagar.
According to medical professionals, several factors may be contributing to the increase, including changing lifestyles, lack of physical activity, obesity, delayed childbirth, family history, and growing urbanisation. Improved diagnostic facilities and greater awareness have also led to more cases being identified than in the past.
Despite advances in treatment, doctors say social stigma and fear continue to prevent many women from seeking timely medical help.
“Women often notice a lump but hesitate to discuss it, even with family members. Some wait for months before consulting a doctor. By that time, the cancer may have spread beyond the breast,” said Dr. Shafqat Ahmad, a surgical oncologist. “Early-stage breast cancer is highly treatable. Delay remains our biggest enemy.”
The challenge is particularly acute in rural areas, where awareness about breast health remains limited and access to specialised diagnostic services can be difficult. Healthcare workers say misconceptions surrounding cancer continue to fuel anxiety and silence.
“Many women still believe that a cancer diagnosis means certain death. That is simply not true,” said Dr. Ruquiya Bashir, a public health specialist. “With early detection and proper treatment, survival rates are very encouraging. Our focus should be on ensuring women come forward without fear.”
For survivors, the journey often begins with overcoming denial.
A 42-year-old breast cancer survivor from north Kashmir, who requested anonymity, said she ignored a lump for nearly six months. “I thought it would disappear on its own. When I finally went for a check-up, the doctors told me it was cancer. Looking back, I wish I had sought help much earlier,” she said.
Medical experts are now urging authorities to strengthen awareness campaigns, particularly in schools, colleges and rural communities. They also advocate regular breast examinations and community-level screening programmes to identify cases before symptoms become severe.
“Breast cancer is becoming a significant public health issue in Kashmir,” said Dr. Ahmad. “The good news is that we have the expertise and treatment facilities. What we need is greater awareness, early diagnosis and community participation.”
As hospitals continue to register new cases, doctors say the message is simple but urgent: breast cancer is on the rise, but timely action can save lives. For thousands of women across Kashmir, awareness may prove to be the most effective form of prevention.
“The disease is increasing, but so are our chances of defeating it—provided women do not ignore the warning signs,” said Dr. Bashir. “The sooner we detect it, the better the outcome.”