Compared to western countries, Iranian women are diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages, health officials say.

The head of Jahad Daneshgahi, Masoud Habibi told ISNA that breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer in the female population, is less prevalent among Iranians.

"Considering the fact that Iranian women are diagnosed with breast cancer at earlier ages, accurate diagnosis and treatment of the condition therefore is very critical," added Habibi.

He stressed that the disease accounts for 20 percent of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

Habibi urged physicians to always have the disease in mind with the aim of controlling the disease and its complications which impose a heavy burden on families and society.

PKH/HGH