Rising breast cancer cases in South Punjab: Industrial pollution, lack of awareness termed main causes

MULTAN: Lack of proper awareness about breast cancer, delayed diagnosis, and industrial pollution are contributing to the rising incidence of the disease in South Punjab districts. Factors such as late menopause, family history of cancer, and lifestyle choices also increase risk. Many women’s limited knowledge about the disease and personal hygiene leads to delayed diagnosis and higher mortality rates, an investigation reveals.

The News conducted an investigation into the widespread prevalence of breast cancer in South Punjab to identify its contributing causes. Discussions with oncologists, environmentalists, chemical examiners and chemists highlighted untreated industrial effluents as a major factor in the breast cancer surge in the region. There is a strong, scientifically supported link between industrial effluents and breast cancer risk, primarily due to the presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and carcinogens. These chemicals contaminate water and the environment, leading to human exposure through drinking water, food, and air. The mammary glands are especially vulnerable during critical developmental periods like puberty and pregnancy. Environmentalists noted that industrial effluents have heavily polluted the Chenab River and local groundwater in Multan due to inadequate treatment. Water tests show elevated levels of organic matter (BOD, COD), suspended solids, and pathogens that degrade aquatic life and contaminate irrigation water. The absence of Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) means untreated wastewater is discharged, harming ecosystems and posing health risks to communities, particularly through irrigation use. EDCs disrupt the body’s natural hormone system by mimicking or blocking hormonal signals.

Genetic mutations, especially in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and family history also play a significant role. Oncologists highlighted reproductive and lifestyle factors such as late menopause, late age at first pregnancy, and low parity (number of pregnancies) as additional risks. The disease shows a peak incidence between ages 36-45. Early detection is crucial, as breast cancer is highly treatable if caught early. Raising public awareness to encourage self-exams and timely medical consultation is essential, oncologists stressed.

Untreated or poorly treated industrial effluents contaminate rivers, groundwater, and drinking water supplies, exposing downstream communities. Contamination of the food chain, especially through persistent pollutants like PCBs, contributes to breast cancer risk by introducing toxins via meat and animal products. Industrial air emissions of carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting compounds also correlate with increased breast cancer cases. In Multan, several unchecked factories, particularly fertilizer plants, release poisonous gases, officials from the Environmental Protection Agency confirmed.