As the country gears up for the festive energy of Navratri, health experts are reminding women of an equally important priority — their breast health. While the nine nights of dance, devotion, and celebration bring families together, skipping essential health screenings like a mammogram can silently increase the risk of late detection of breast cancer.
According to oncologists and global studies, women who miss regular mammograms are at a significantly higher risk of dying from breast cancer compared to those who undergo timely screenings. This Navratri, let’s understand why you should never miss a mammogram and how timely detection can save lives.
Why Mammograms Are Crucial
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that helps in detecting cancer at an early stage — sometimes even before symptoms appear. Early detection is critical because:
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It improves survival rates.
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Allows for less aggressive treatment.
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Prevents cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.
👉 Doctors emphasize that mammograms can reduce the risk of breast cancer death by up to 40% in women over 40 years of age.
Skipping Mammograms Increases Death Risk
Recent research published in international medical journals confirms a disturbing truth: women who delay or avoid mammograms face 30–40% higher mortality rates from breast cancer.
The key reason is late detection. By the time symptoms like lumps, pain, or skin changes are noticeable, cancer may already be in an advanced stage. Early-stage cancers, which are usually detected by mammograms, have a far better chance of being cured.
Navratri Reminder: Celebrate Health Alongside Festivities
Navratri is a celebration of the feminine divine, symbolizing strength, protection, and healing. What better time than this to focus on women’s health?
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Just as we prepare clothes, jewellery, and dance routines for Garba nights, we must also schedule health checkups.
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Many hospitals and diagnostic centers even launch Navratri or Breast Cancer Awareness Month packages for women.
This is a reminder that protecting your health is as important as enjoying the festivities.
When Should You Get a Mammogram?
Orthopaedic and oncology associations recommend:
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Women aged 40 and above should get a mammogram every 1–2 years.
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High-risk women (family history, genetic mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2) may need to start screening earlier.
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Women aged 50–69 benefit the most, with regular mammograms reducing death risk substantially.
If you’ve missed your last appointment, Navratri is the perfect time to book one.
Common Myths About Mammograms – Busted
❌ “I don’t feel any lump, so I don’t need a mammogram.”
✔️ Breast cancer can be invisible in early stages. Mammograms detect what hands cannot.
❌ “Mammograms are painful.”
✔️ Some women feel mild discomfort, but it lasts only a few seconds. The benefits outweigh the temporary unease.
❌ “Only women with a family history need it.”
✔️ Nearly 85% of breast cancer cases occur in women with no family history.
Lifestyle and Prevention Go Hand in Hand
Along with regular mammograms, doctors also recommend adopting healthy habits:
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Maintain a healthy weight.
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Stay physically active (even Garba dancing counts!).
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Limit alcohol and quit smoking.
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Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
While lifestyle cannot guarantee complete prevention, it can significantly lower the risk.
Final Thoughts
This Navratri, as we celebrate Goddess Durga’s power and resilience, let’s pledge to protect the health of the women in our lives. Never miss a mammogram — because early detection can save lives.
Skipping it even once could mean detecting cancer at a later stage, making treatment more difficult and survival less likely. A simple, 15-minute test could be the difference between life and death.
So, amidst the festivities, colours, and Garba beats, make time for your health. After all, celebrating Navratri with good health is the biggest blessing of all.