Ten-year survival in early-stage breast cancer patients in a comprehensive breast cancer care program in India

Introduction Breast cancer accounted for 21.9% of all cancer deaths among women in India in 2020. Fifty seven percent of the breast cancers in India are detected at advanced stages. The lack of adequate resources for diagnosis and treatment adds to the delay and reduces survival. The clinical stage at diagnosis is the most important prognostic factor. Increased cancer awareness, early diagnosis, and affordable and accessible treatment facilities have been recommended for clinical downstaging and improved survival in low- and middle-income countries including India. We implemented a comprehensive breast care program based on these recommendations. This study explores the long-term survival outcomes of patients diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (EBC) in an early detection program within a universal health coverage (UHC) scheme. Methods This is a cohort study of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer under the UHC scheme between 2008 and 2018. The follow-up was done through electronic medical records, in-person clinic visits, and telephone calls. The primary outcomes were 5- and 10-year overall survival and disease-free survival. Results A total of 185 patients who presented with EBC were recruited among 254 incident breast cancer cases throughout the study period (72.8%). The average overall survival was 123 months. Five-year overall and disease-free survival were 85.2 and 84.6%, respectively. Ten-year overall and disease-free survival were 79.0 and 76.2%, respectively. Discussion This study underscores the importance of early detection in breast cancer. It also demonstrates that 5- and 10-year survival rates better than those reported in Indian cancer registries are achievable through comprehensive cancer care and UHC.