Times News Network

Bangalore, Mar 9: Until a few years ago, breast cancer was a rare form of cancer in India. Not any more, says a study done by the Bangalore Institute of Oncology.

At least 23 per cent of the 6,700 women in the city were found to have breast cancer and 19 per cent were detected with cancer of the cervix.

Studies have also shown that 60-65 per cent of cancer in women was relating to the breast. "We don't have a national registry which can show us the status of every city.

But by experience I can say the situation is the same,"Dr B S Ajai Kumar, chairman, Bangalore Institute of Oncology said.

He also announced the launch of a month-long campaign on breast cancer on the occasion of International Women's Day.

Until few years ago, cancer registries in different parts of the city have showed a high rate of cervical cancer among women.

Breast cancer, he said, is a disease that is high among the affluent class of the most advanced countries. The lifestyle of most women in the city has changed rapidly.

"Most women today are used to fatty food, smoking, drinking and lack of exercise. This has caused a havoc, "he said.

Oncologist Dr Nalini Rao, said the institute would organize free health camps in rural and urban areas to increase awareness and have early detection camps.