#YourGenesMatter

Support, Spread, Save Lives

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About
campaign

Breast cancer results from interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental factors or lifestyle choices.

With genetic insights, we can identify risks early, make informed decisions, and potentially prevent cancer before it starts.

Join us in raising awareness about the power of genetics and how understanding your genes can be a game-changer in the fight against breast cancer.
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STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Dr Ritesh Malik
Founder  Plaksha,  Innov8. YGL, World Economic Forum
As per Global Cancer Observatory, IARC-WHO, 2022, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer globally with estimated mortality cases of 665255 for the year 2022 among females.

India ranks highest in the number of estimated breast cancer deaths (98,337) for the year 2022 among females, with one in 28 women likely to develop the disease during her lifetime. Yet, awareness and early detection remain key to saving lives. This campaign shines a vital spotlight on prevention, empowering individuals to take proactive steps in their health journey. I wholeheartedly support this initiative to increase awareness, as it aligns with our collective responsibility to foster a healthier, informed population. Together, we can amplify the message that prevention and early diagnosis can be life-saving. Let’s make a difference, one conversation at a time. All the very best for the initiative!

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Dr Saipriya Tewari
Consultant Pain Management and Palliative Care Manipal Hospitals, New Delhi.
My best wishes to the campaign 👍 Pink is the colour of hope and strength, and I support this spirit whole heartedly.
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Together, we can foster a supportive environment that prioritizes prevention, ultimately saving lives and reducing the emotional and financial burdens of breast cancer.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Brijesh Damodaran
Managing Partner, Auxano Capital, New Delhi.
Caring is not by words , but by action. As a family man, you can show you care by encouraging your loved ones - mother , sister , wife , daughter , friends - to check for cancer of the breasts. Its not taboo ... but an early detection can enable to have a better quality of life . And you are over 35 years of age , do test once a year. I encourage within my circle . . SugarStrings initiative to create awareness has not come one day later ....

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Utkarsh Amitabh
CEO, Network Capital;  PhD Scholar, Oxford.
Breast cancer affects people of all genders, not just women. Early detection through regular testing is crucial in saving lives. If you’re over 40, schedule a mammogram, and if you’re younger, self-examinations and awareness of family history are vital. Men can develop breast cancer too, so it’s important to recognize the signs—such as lumps or changes in breast tissue—and seek medical advice promptly. Breast cancer does not discriminate, but early action can make a difference. Stay informed, talk to your doctor, and prioritize your health by supporting regular screenings and awareness for everyone. I wish Sugar Strings the best as it tries to develop its AI powered solution

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Bincy Mathew
Consultant Psychooncologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore
Consultant Psychooncologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore

I’m excited to extend my heartfelt best wishes to this incredible campaign!

The impact of cancer extends far beyond the patient, affecting families and caregivers alike. Just as early detection of breast cancer can be life-saving and transformative, it is equally important to foster conversations that help remove the stigma surrounding cancer in general.

SugarStrings' initiative to raise awareness is exactly what's needed.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Ria Dutta
CEO, Clevergene Biocorp pvt ltd
You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have

Breast cancer awareness is a powerful movement dedicated to raising understanding and breaking the stigma around breast cancer symptoms and treatment.

Every voice matters, and every action counts. đź’—

Together, we can spread hope, offer strength, and make a lasting difference.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Jinu C Soman
Consultant Radiologist Aster Medcity Cochin
Breast cancer remains the top cancer threat to women in India, responsible for 10% of cancer-related deaths in 2020.

I'm proud to support SugarString's initiative for a healthier India, focusing on prevention and awareness. This fight requires all of us. Together, we can ensure that every woman has access to the right care and information.

Let’s stand united, spread awareness, and be part of this important movement.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Ishaan Khanna
CEO, Antara Senior Care
Breast cancer remains the top Breast cancer awareness is a vital cause, shining a light on the strength and resilience of those affected by this disease. It reminds us to cherish the women in our lives and support them through early detection, treatment, and recovery.

Every pink ribbon is a symbol of hope, a testament to countless battles fought with courage. Behind each diagnosis is a story—one of bravery, fear, love, and survival.

Let’s stand together, promote regular screenings, and contribute to research, so we can one day see a world free from breast cancer. Every voice raised matters in this fight for life.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Piyush Sanduja
Founder - Agenda+Health
Breast cancer constitutes 13.5% of all cancer cases in India, with over 162,000 new cases diagnosed annually.

Tragically, more than 70% of these cases in low- and middle-income countries are detected at advanced stages, contributing to a five-year survival rate of just 66% in India compared to 90% in high-income nations. This disparity is a direct result of limited access to healthcare, lack of awareness, and inadequate early screening programs.

By championing initiatives that focus on early detection, education, and affordable treatment, we can bridge the healthcare gap, reduce mortality rates, and ensure that no woman faces the devastating consequences of late-stage diagnosis.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Rhea Karuturi
Co-founder and CTO at Hoovu
It’s easy to forget the importance of regular screenings in the midst of everyday stressors, so it’s great to have a reminder. As a family that was recently affected by cancer, we understand how crucial early detection is.

This campaign can make a real difference in spreading awareness and encouraging proactive health care, potentially saving lives.

Thank you sugarstrings for taking this initiative!

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT

Dr Ashutosh Upadhyay
Sr Oncology Specialist Illumina
I’m excited to extend my heartfelt best wishes to this incredible campaign!

The impact of cancer extends far beyond the patient, affecting families and caregivers alike. Just as early detection of breast cancer can be life-saving and transformative, it is equally important to foster conversations that help remove the stigma surrounding cancer in general.

SugarStrings' initiative to raise awareness is exactly what's needed.

5 facts

About

Breast

Cancer that everyone must know.

1.
Early Detection Saves Lives:
Early-stage breast cancer has a survival rate of over 90%.
2.
Gene mutations increase risk:
Mutations in any of over 25 genes can lead to breast cancer, but early identification through genetic testing enables proactive monitoring and preventive strategies.
3.
Lifestyle changes can reduce genetic risk:
Even if someone has a genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and staying active can lower the chances of breast cancer developing.
4.
Risk-reducing medication is available:
For individuals with high-risk genetic mutations, preventive medications can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by up to 50% when identified early.
5.
Prophylactic surgeries can be life-saving:
Knowing genetic risk early allows for preventive surgeries like a mastectomy or oophorectomy, which can reduce breast cancer risk by up to 95%.
Peter
Genees matter:
I stand with the cause.
Genees matter:
I stand with the cause.
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GET INVOLVED.
RAISE AWARENESS.

Understanding your genetic risk isn't just knowledge—it's power.

Join us in spreading awareness about the critical role genes play in breast cancer. By actively participating, you can help others realize that early detection through genetic insights can lead to effective prevention and treatment strategies. Let's make a tangible difference together.
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF CANCER GENES AND BREAST CANCER

“Life comes with many challenges. The ones that should not scare us are the ones we can take on and take control of.”
- Angelina Jolie
In the mid-1990s, BRCA1 and BRCA2 were the first genes identified to be associated with breast cancer. These genes normally help repair damaged DNA, but mutations in either gene can significantly increase the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and other cancers.

The discovery of  gene mutations revolutionised cancer prevention, providing a genetic explanation for why some families have a higher risk of developing cancer. For example, individuals with BRCA mutations can have up to a 72% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.

One of the most pivotal moments in raising global awareness about cancer gene testing occurred in 2013, when Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie publicly announced her decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy after learning she carried a BRCA1 mutation.

Jolie’s courageous decision sparked a worldwide conversation about genetic testing, prevention, and women’s health. Her openness empowered many to seek genetic counseling and testing, bringing preemptive genetic testing into mainstream public consciousness.

Since then, genetic testing has become more accessible, allowing many individuals to take proactive measures in managing their cancer risks. The discovery of these genes has become a milestone in personalized cancer prevention and care.
Six public figures who battled breast cancer
Mumtaz
Mumtaz :
The legendary actress, Mumtaz was diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2002 at the age of 52. Despite being in her 50s, Mumtaz defeated the disease and inspired so many breast cancer patients across the world. As per multiple reports, Mumtaz underwent six chemotherapies and a total of 35 radiation treatments.
Richard Roundtree
Richard Roundtree:
“I thought he was questioning my manhood,” he wrote in an essay for Essence in 2009, sharing the day his doctor first told him he had breast cancer. “Women die from this, not men. How could I possibly have that?”The actor best known for starring in 1971's *Shaft* was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993.
Mahima Chaudhary:
Actress Mahima Chaudhary had a life-threatening disease like breast cancer in the year 2022. She got treatment for it and now she is completely fine. Mahima Chaudhary has worked in films like 'Dhadkan', 'Pardes', 'Baghban'.
Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow:
“I am a walking advertisement for early detection.” – Sheryl Crow

Sheryl had no family history or significant risk factors, which is common—60-70% of breast cancer cases occur without known pre-existing risks. This highlights the importance of early detection for everyone, regardless of family history
Tahira
Tahira Kashyap:
Kashyap was 35 when she was diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer, a pre-cancerous condition. She is also the wife of Ayushmann Khurrana, a National Film Award winning actor. Tahira, 39 today, and has successfully recovered from cancer and actively working towards her goals in her career.
Peter
Peter Criss:
“You don’t need boobs to get breast cancer,” the KISS drummer told Fox News in 2014.The legendary musician, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 (along with the rest of KISS), found a lump in his left breast after a workout in 2007.

Featured article

Blog image

Your Risk of Breast Cancer If Your Mother Had Breast Cancer

How her disease (and your overall family history) impacts you
By Julie Scott, MSN, ANP-BC, AOCNP    May 15, 2024
Having a mother with breast cancer increases the chance that you could also develop the disease. While most breast cancer is not hereditary,1 it is valuable to know if you have family members who were ever diagnosed with the disease. Women with a mother, sister, or daughter who developed...
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