Background: Benign breast diseases (BBDs) constitute a diverse group of nonmalignant breast conditions that significantly contribute to breast-related morbidity, particularly among young women. Despite their high prevalence, BBDs are underreported in India due to sociocultural stigma and lack of awareness. This study aimed to analyze the demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of BBDs in patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in North India. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over 18 months (July 2019 to December 2020) at Rama Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. Female patients above 18 years of age with histologically confirmed BBD were included. Detailed clinical evaluation, radiological imaging, Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC), and biopsy were employed. Lesions were classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria into non-proliferative, proliferative without atypia, and proliferative with atypia. Results: A total of 186 female patients were included, with a mean age of 29.6 years. The majority (68.3%) were aged 21–30 years. Most patients were multiparous (65.6%) and non-obese (78.5%). The predominant symptom was a palpable breast lump (82.8%), followed by mastalgia (11.8%). Right breast and upper outer quadrant involvement were most common. Histopathologically, fibroadenoma was the most frequent lesion (51.6%), followed by fibrocystic changes (20.4%) and mastitis (11.8%). According to WHO classification, 54.8% of cases were proliferative without atypia, 43% non-proliferative, and 2.2% proliferative with atypia. Conclusion: Benign breast diseases predominantly affect young women and most commonly present as palpable lumps. Fibroadenoma is the leading histological subtype. Accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management, follow-up, and alleviating patient anxiety. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and early evaluation of breast symptoms to ensure timely and effective care.

Benign breast disease, Fibroadenoma, Histopathology, Palpable lump, FNAC etc