Introduction: Proinflammatory cytokines promote cancer progression. Aim: The present study was aimed to evaluate the role of two proinflammatory cytokines namely, Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) in breast cancer patients. Materials and Methods: This study comprises of 75 breast cancer patients and 25 healthy subjects. They were categorized into three groups, based on the disease stage, age and menopausal status. Serum concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α were estimated by quantitative sandwich ELISA method. Results: Significantly elevated concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α were observed in breast cancer patients when compared with healthy subjects. Furthermore, elevated concentrations were seen with advancement of disease. No association has been found with age and menopausal status. Conclusion: This clearly indicates their positive role in breast cancer progression. © 2013 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.