A new study reveals alarming cancer statistics in India, with three out of every five diagnosed patients dying from the disease. Women are found to be disproportionately affected, facing higher mortality rates than men. Published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal, the study used data from global cancer databases and highlights India’s rising cancer burden. Researchers predict a sharp increase in cancer-related deaths over the next two decades as the population ages. India currently ranks third globally for cancer incidence and second for cancer-related deaths.
India Faces Rising Cancer Burden
According to the study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India’s cancer incidence is increasing at an alarming rate. It now ranks third in the world, behind China and the United States. The study analyzed trends across 36 types of cancer in India over the last two decades, using the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 and Global Health Observatory (GHO) databases.
The findings reveal a stark contrast between India and other countries. While the incidence-to-mortality ratio in the US is around 1 in 4, and in China, it’s 1 in 2, India’s ratio stands at a worrying 3 in 5. In other words, a large number of people diagnosed with cancer in India are not surviving.
Women Bear Disproportionate Cancer Burden
Women in India face a disproportionate share of the cancer burden. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer, accounting for 13.8% of all new cancer cases in both men and women. Cervical cancer ranks third with 9.2% of new diagnoses. Among women, breast cancer alone makes up nearly 30% of new cases, while cervical cancer contributes over 19%. These two cancers are also the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women, with breast cancer responsible for over 24% of cancer deaths and cervical cancer causing nearly 20%.
Men and Oral Cancer
While women are particularly affected by breast and cervical cancers, men are most commonly diagnosed with oral cancer. Oral cancer makes up 16% of new cancer cases in men, followed by respiratory cancers (8.6%) and oesophageal cancer (6.7%). The data suggests that lifestyle factors, such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption, may contribute to the higher prevalence of these cancers in men.
Cancer Shifting to Older Age Groups
The study also identified a significant shift in cancer prevalence across different age groups. The geriatric population, aged 70 and above, is now experiencing the highest cancer burden. Individuals in the reproductive age group (15-49 years) also face a significant incidence of cancer, contributing to about 20% of cancer-related deaths. The middle-aged and elderly groups (50-69 years) are particularly at risk, with an 8-10% higher chance of developing cancer compared to younger people, and a 5.5-7.7% higher chance of dying from it.
Need for Targeted Interventions
The study underscores the urgency of addressing India’s growing cancer crisis. With approximately 70% of cancer cases and deaths occurring in middle-aged and older individuals, the researchers stress the need for targeted interventions. They call for improved cancer detection, treatment, and prevention strategies, especially for the aging population, which is set to grow in the coming decades. The rising number of cases is expected to increase by 2% annually, further straining the healthcare system.
The researchers note that the study is the “first comprehensive evaluation” of cancer trends in India, highlighting critical disparities across age groups and genders. As India faces a rapidly growing cancer burden, it is essential to implement effective healthcare policies and interventions to tackle the escalating crisis.
Experts suggest that focusing on prevention, early detection, and access to quality healthcare could help reduce the mortality rate and improve survival rates. India must also prioritize cancer research and ensure affordable treatment options for the growing number of patients.
As India grapples with an increasing number of cancer diagnoses and deaths, the latest findings shed light on the urgent need for comprehensive cancer control strategies. With a focus on vulnerable populations, especially women and older adults, targeted healthcare interventions are crucial to reducing the burden of cancer in the country. The rise in cancer incidence demands urgent action from policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure better outcomes for patients across India.
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