Inequity in Early Detection: A Systematic Review of Socioeconomic and Regional Disparities in Breast Cancer Screening in India

Breast cancer becomes the most frequent cancer type that is diagnosed in women in India, and is still one of the leading causes of cancer related mortality, and in society where radiation and diagnostic capacity is low. Early detection provides the best opportunity to enhance results and lower advanced care costs. However, national surveys and recent studies suggest that the level of screening coverage is incredibly low and that access is not evenly distributed, as it favours richer and more urban populations, and leaves many rural and socially marginalized people untouched. This review relates on the evidence between 2022 and 2026 to discuss how socioeconomic position, geography, and institutional design cause an implementation intent gap and provide specific, equity directed intermediaries to enhance screening delivery and referral frameworks.